We had a great time in Scotland with an impressive tally of birds for the group. Specialities included. This was no doubt helped by the mild warm southerlies that brought on a spell of early migration. However, there was one bird that dominated the tour. At every single place we ventured from the vehicle this year we could hear and often see Siskin. They were everywhere!
We were watching the loch unaware someone else was too.
On the recent trip to Scotland as we scanned the large area of water in front of us a large raptor came into view to our left. It was the unmistakable shape of an Osprey. As we all watched it glide effortlessly along the shoreline above us it hovered … then stooped. We didn’t see it hit the water, the nearside of the loch was hidden to us. We waited. It wasn’t long before she appeared shaking and re-orientating the large trout in her talons. There then ensued a mild panic as we all scrambled for our cameras.
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Arrived back last night from the Scottish Birders long weekend. Excellent tally of 103 species including PTARMIGAN, CAPERCAILLE, BLACK & RED GROUSE, BLACK & RED THROATED DIVERS, SLAVONIAN GREBES, CRESTED TITS, SCOTTISH CROSSBILLS …. and so much more, despite some intimidating weather. If you are interested in the tour in 2015 register your interest by sending me a mail and I’ll send you details when they become available.
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We went to the Corryvreckan Whirlpools off Seil Island on our cetacean tour of Scotland at the beginning of the month. As we stood on the boat waiting to cast off, on the opposite bank we saw the second otter of the day. It moved out of the water and chewed fiercely into a morsel brought from the bottom of the loch. I never tire of seeing these enigmatic animals. Camouflaged beautifully it wrapped itself in the kelp to secure its secrecy. Even though we looked carefully, it was anything but obvious.
Letter From Norfolk 