Country diary: For the gannets of Bass Rock, it's a slow road to recovery

North Berwick, East Lothian: As I admire the aerial feats of house martins in Tantallon Castle, my eye is drawn across the water.

Published 31 August 2026 149 words
ENVIRONMENT A2
Country diary: For the gannets of Bass Rock, it's a slow road to recovery

Near Tantallon Castle, house martins build nests in the ruins. Their numbers are falling sadly, but here they are still strong. They fly back to Africa in winter, but scientists do not know exactly where they go.

A mile away is Bass Rock, a big island famous for birds. It has seen many things in its long history. Now, about 100,000 gannets live there. This number is lower than before because of bird flu in 2022. Scientists think it will take 15 years for the gannet population to recover.

The gannets fly over the island. They are very good at catching fish. It is hard for them to survive, and it is getting harder. But if they get a chance, they can grow in number again.

Vocabulary

ruins — old buildings that are not in good condition anymore.
population — all the people or animals of a particular type in an area.
recover — to become healthy or strong again after an illness or problem.
scientists — people who study or work in subjects like physics, chemistry, or biology.
famous — known by many people.
stronghold — a place where a group is strong and safe.

Discussion Questions

  1. What kind of birds are living in Tantallon Castle?
  2. Why have the numbers of gannets on Bass Rock fallen?
  3. How long do scientists think it will take for the gannet population to recover?

Based on an article from The Guardian.

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