After the Storm

The Christmas Eve storm had abated but there was still a brisk wind and lively sea as the waves rolled in to Largo Bay on Christmas Day. Taken from the far east end of the bay looking towards Largo Law.

Scallop Shell Colour Variation

My favourite shells are those of the various scallops, particularly the small delicate ones. These, all between 3 and 4 cms across, were collected on the beach between Lundin Links and Lower Largo. They vary in colour from a pale creamy peach through reds to black.
The colour variation may be due to environmental conditions. For example, chemical reactions deep in the sand produce iron sulphide which is black in colour and it is this which can cause black colouration. However, genetic factors may also be involved.

High Cloud Patterns

Some quite spectacular cloud patterns over Lundin Links this morning. In the photo above the moon is just visible. Not sure of the type of cloud, possibly altocumulus.

Remembrance Sunday

Hips and Haws

Hips and haws make splashes of colour on an Autumn day. Above the hips of a dog rose on the Massney Braes in Lundin Links.

The much larger rounder hips of Rosa rugosa at the top of the footpath to Lundin Golf Club car park.

A hawthorn tree on the old railway track in Lower Largo absolutely festooned with berries (haws).

A Changing Skyline

A giant wind turbine being constructed close to the Fife Energy Park in Methil. It will be the largest wind turbine in Scotland and at 196 metres, the structure will be taller than the Blackpool Tower, London Eye and the capital’s Gherkin building. Closer to home it will be taller than the highest spars of the Forth Road Bridge.

There is already a wind turbine in Methil and viewed from Lundin Links can see how much bigger the new one will be.

Broken Mussel Shell

Sometimes something quite common on the beach catches my attention, like this broken piece of mussel shell. I think it's just the way the outer black coating of the shell has worn away, leaving various colours and patterns behind.