Speyside

now that is what i call a glacial valley....

Today we went for a drive around a few classic birding sites in the highlands looking for a few classic bird species. It is fair to say that we were quite successful.

Our first stop was Abenathy Forest – an RSPB reserve on the shores of Loch Garten – another reserve made famous through being the site of the natural re-introduction of Ospreys in the 50’s. Here we found one of the specials straight away; Crested Tit. Coal, Blue and Great Tits were also found here as were [of course] Chaffinch, Goldcrest, Tree Pipit and several others. Goldeneye were a trip bird for us on the Loch it self.

breeding plumaged Slavonian or Horned Grebe

Another target water bird was found in another small Loch nearby – Slavonian Grebe or Horned if you’re an American. This bird is stunning in its summer plumage and there were three birds seen so attired. Greylag, Mallard, Great BB Gull helped complete the compliment of other species here. Common Sandpiper was a trip bird here.

remains of an ancient bridge

Another wetland yielded more waterfowl – Wigeon and Common Teal – with Goldeneye, Mallard and more Greylag. Little Grebe plus Oystercatchers and Lapwing were here also.

red deer

We then ventured up into a classic highland valley, its glacial formation obvious to all. Herds of Red Deer were seen both high on the hills and sheltered near the valley floor close to the safety of forests. Dipper and Grey and White Wagtails were conspicuous on the streams while Siskin, Spotted Flycatcher and Willow Warbler were buzzing around the tree tops. Distant Buzzard and Kestrel were the only raptors seen. A distant Ring Ouzel was scoped but people agreed that a BVD [Better view was desired].

Grouse

Grouse chick

Then to the moors – an amazing expanse of scenery and vegetation. Nesting Common Terns plus great views of Red or Willow Grouse. WE also had views of yet another trip bird – Black-throated or Arctic Loon / Diver. Near here we saw an albinistic Meadow Pipit -  the bright white bird causing initial confusion.

Golden Plover

Nesting Common Gull

We had an after dinner excursion that proved rewarding  - out across the moors. Short eared Owl was seen twice before good views of Black Grouse at a Lekking site. 6 males and a couple of females were seen.

Eurasian Curlew

the van on the moors