Creature

Several animal species greeted us as explored the paths around Newquay. I have already mentioned the Stonechat, Ravens and Gulls, so here are a few others.
While strolling around one headland, we looked back along the the cliff edge and saw, by chance, a female Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) sitting on a protruding rock.

Far smaller, but much more numerous, were the butterflies and moths flitting around the Thrift plants on the cliff tops. Here we spotted a Large Skipper (Ochlodes sylvanus) and a couple of 6-Spot Burnet Moths (Zygaena filipendulae) enjoying the nectar within.

By far the largest animal we saw, was a Grey Seal (Halichoerus grypus) which was an almost permanent part of the harbour scene as it waited - and even seemed to 'beg' - for fish thrown from the fishing boats.

The Latin name 'Halichoerus grypus' means 'Hook-nosed Sea Pig, which seems a rather disrespectful name for such a beautiful creature.