As It Happened Trip Summaries from Our Guides

2011 – AS IT HAPPENED TRIP SUMMARIES FROM OUR GUIDES

Our holidays based here at the Mountview Hotel in the heart of the Cairngorm National Park run continuously throughout the year. Beginning in February and running through until November, we have 15 different holiday itineraries which change with the seasons to give you the best of Scottish Wildlife.

Here are some of the highlights from 2011!

Your gateway to Scottish birds and wildlife!

During the last twenty‐one years we have led more than 700 full week birding and wildlife holidays here in the Scottish Highlands. That means over 4000 days of dedicated guiding, showing wonderful wildlife to a total of over forty thousand guests!

With this wealth of experience, and holidays running continuously from February until late November, it isn’t surprising we know the wildlife of Scotland extremely well. Our expert guides judge weather and season to give you the best possible wildlife sightings, and our thanks go to all those who have joined our holidays to date. We hope to enjoy many more fantastic experiences with you in the future.

This Report gives just a flavour of our holidays. Not every sighting is included, only highlights, and all reports have been edited to protect wildlife locations. Please read as a general guide given to help you decide whether our holidays might be suitable......

DECEMBER 2010 – JANUARY 2011

The Last and first Birds of the Year – notes from our guides!

We seek Capercaillie, Black Grouse, Ptarmigan (weather permitting!), Crested Tit and Scottish (Parrot) Crossbill TWICE, once during the last two days of 2011, and again after ‘The Bells’ during the first four days of 2012. We also have time after New Year to visit the Moray Coast, where winter bird lists can reach 60 species per day, the Black Isle, where wintering passerine flocks can number into the hundreds. We will have our finger on the pulse to show you any rarities within reach, and daylight allows us a good seven hours or so birding every day......

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd THE LAST AND FIRST BIRDS OF THE YEAR The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge, Inverness-shire PH25 3EB WEDNESDAY 29 DECEMBER 2010 – Tel: 01479 821248, Fax 01479 821515 Email: [email protected] WEDNESDAY 5 JANUARY 2011 www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guides: Ian Ford & Jonny Pott

GROUP HIGHLIGHTS:

A great birding week, the highlights perhaps being three cock Capercaillie (seen by most but not all guests), and a superb King Eider, close-in and displaying all key plumage features. Other good birds enjoyed by all were Black Grouse, Crested Tit and Golden Eagle, and ‘rarities’ included Great Grey Shrike and a confiding Bittern, both at Insh Marshes. Our total list of 101 species also included Slavonian Grebe, 14 duck species including both Velvet and Common Scoter and Long-tailed, Red Grouse, Woodcock, Black Guillemot, Waxwing, Brambling, Parrot Crossbill and Snow Bunting. A very healthy start to the New Year’s list for all participants!

Hogmanay itself is a key part of this holiday, and after Dinner some of our Group joined in with the Nethy Bridge fireworks celebration, followed by a bird ID quiz and singing (by Jonny, resplendent in his kilt) back at the Mountview. Some hardy souls were taken into Grantown, to join in with locals in the outdoor party, with live music and dancing, whilst the rest of us saw in ‘The Bells’ at the Hotel, followed by a chorus of Auld Lang Syne and more fireworks. Most were in bed at a reasonable hour, though a generously late breakfast on New Year’s Day allowed people the choice of early morning birding around the Hotel or a lie-in.

Thanks to Heatherlea guides Ian Ford and Jonny Pott. A thoroughly enjoyable time was had by all – many thanks to all who joined and made it such fun!

INDIVIDUAL HIGHLIGHTS:

Birding Highlights (selected) ‘three lifers, King Eider, Scaup, Great Grey Shrike, plus good views for the first time of Golden Eagle and Bittern... ‘The drama of a Buzzard and Sparrowhawk sitting next to each other ... ‘King Eider and Capercaillie, two great birds ... ‘Moray coast was special, with all the seaduck, not least King Eider, a lifer ... ‘unexpected birds, including Brambling, Waxwing, and finding Bittern for the group was a highlight ... ‘flurries of snow and scurrying voles at the head of the Findhorn, plus 200 red deer ... ‘best viewing was the Golden Eagle, really quite special ... ‘Burghead Harbour and a group of Long-tailed Duck all in different plumage – like the bird book ... ‘the King Eider so close, showing all plumage details ... ‘for once, really good close-ups of Rock Pipit ...

Non-birding Highlights At the end of the week, our round-up produced a few interesting non-birding highlights amongst all the great sightings enjoyed, including: ‘the look of the Hotel Lounge as we came up the drive … ’the guides’ skills of listening in the field makes me want to learn more about birdsound … ’excellent hotel ambience, food and crack … ‘our first group in Britain and we didn’t have to organise it! ’Strathdearn never fails to lift my heart … ’Ian and Jonny’s patience … ’good weather and great light, particular on the morning of the partial solar eclipse … ’Hogmanay! … ‘

The Last and First Birds of the Year w/c 29 December 2010 – BIRDLIST

. Red‐throated Diver 1 Slavonian Grebe 2 Little Grebe 3 Fulmar 4 Cormorant 5 Shag 6 Bittern 7 Grey Heron 8 Mute Swan 9 Whooper Swan 10 Greylag Goose 11 Shelduck 12 Mallard 13 Wigeon 14 Teal 15 Scaup 16 Tufted Duck 17 Eider 18 King Eider 19 Common Scoter 20 Velvet Scoter 21 Long‐tailed Duck 22 Goldeneye 23 Goosander 24 Red‐breasted Merganser 25 26 Golden Eagle

Red Kite 27 Buzzard 28 Sparrowhawk 29 Kestrel 30 Peregrine 31 Red Grouse 32 Capercaillie 33 Black Grouse 34 Grey Partridge 35 Pheasant 36 Moorhen 37 Coot 38 Oystercatcher 39 Ringed Plover 40 Lapwing 41 Knot 42 Purple Sandpiper 43 Turnstone 44 Dunlin 45 Redshank 46 Black‐tailed Godwit 47 Bar‐tailed Godwit 48 Curlew 49 Woodcock 50 Snipe 51 Black‐headed Gull 52 Common Gull 53 Herring Gull 54 Great Black‐backed Gull 55 Black Guillemot 56 Guillemot 57 Rock Dove (Feral Pigeon) 58 Woodpigeon 59 Collared Dove 60 Tawny Owl 61 Long‐eared Owl 62 Great Spotted Woodpecker 63 Rock Pipit 64 Pied Wagtail 65 Wren 66 Dipper 67 Waxwing 68 Dunnock 69 Robin 70 Redwing 71 Mistle Thrush 72 Fieldfare 73 Blackbird 74 Goldcrest 75 Great Tit 76 Coal Tit 77 Blue Tit 78 Crested Tit 79 Long‐tailed Tit 80 Treecreeper 81 Great Grey Shrike 82 Jay 83 Magpie 84 Jackdaw 85 Rook 86 Carrion Crow 87 Hooded Crow 88 Raven 89 Starling 90 House Sparrow 91 Tree Sparrow 92 Chaffinch 93 Brambling 94 Linnet 95 Redpoll 96 Mealy Redpoll 97 Goldfinch 98 Greenfinch 99 Siskin 100 Bullfinch 101 Parrot Crossbill 102 Snow Bunting 103 Yellowhammer 104 Other wildlife of note Common Seal

Grey Seal

Red Deer

Sika Deer

Roe Deer

Mountain Goat

Red Squirrel

Field Vole

Rabbit

Brown Hare

HEATHERLEA BIRDWATCHING THE MOUNTVIEW HOTEL, NETHY BRIDGE, INVERNESS-SHIRE, PH25 3EH TEL: 01479 821 248 FAX: 01479 821 515 WEBSITE: www.heatherlea.co.uk Email: [email protected]

Your gateway to Scottish birds and wildlife!

FEBRUARY 2011

The Top 20 in Winter – notes from our guides!

This winter wildlife holiday combines key mammals and birds with the stunning scenery of the Highlands and the West Coast. Beneath the crystal clear winter skies, wildlife is highly active during the shorter days, and with less human disturbance at this time of year, Otter, Pine Marten, both eagles, Crested Tit, Capercaillie and Black Grouse are easier to find, and Ptarmigan and Red Deer are at lower altitudes to avoid the snowy hilltops. This is a time to see the real Scotland – unspoilt, undeveloped and with unbelievable wildlife......

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd THE TOP TWENTY IN WINTER The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge, Inverness-shire PH25 3EB SAT 5 – SAT 12 FEBRUARY 2011 Tel: 01479 821248, Fax 01479 821515 Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guides: John Poyner and Jonny Pott

GROUP HIGHLIGHTS:

A great birding week, one of the highlights being a rogue Capercaillie, close-in and displaying all key plumage features. Other good birds enjoyed by all were Golden Eagle, Great Northern Diver, Long-Tailed Duck and Velvet Scoter. Our total list of 105 species also included Parrot Crossbill and Snow Bunting.

On our first day on the West Coast we had fantastic views of three otters, and another highlight was hearing a Great Northern Diver wailing on the sea loch.

In Morvern, Matt found an otter at Lochend, then we went to look for Eagles and saw seven Golden Eagles, including a display by an adult pair and an intruding immature bird. We also visited Matt’s pet White Tailed Eagle, and saw yet another Golden Eagle on the way back to Nethy Bridge. Our total otter tally was seven.

Later in the week at the Moray Firth we got close-up views of Eider and Turnstones, the highlights being good views of Long-Tailed Duck and Velvet Scoter.

A thoroughly enjoyable time was had by all – many thanks to all who joined and made it such fun!

INDIVIDUAL HIGHLIGHTS:

Birding Highlights (selected)

‘Capercaillie ... what I came to see … it was fantastic’

‘Long-Tailed Duck on still water’

‘Crested Tit and Snow Buntings’

‘Hearing the Great Northern Diver’

Non-birding Highlights At the end of the week, our round-up produced a few interesting non-birding highlights amongst all the great sightings enjoyed, including:

‘Knocked out by your knowledge of your local patch’

‘Overwhelming scenery of Morvern … the cold and the silence’

‘Really enjoyed seeing the stars … and four Badgers’

‘Reflections of Loch Garten’

‘Otters … never seen them before …’

‘Meeting you folk’

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

THE TOP TWENTY IN WINTER Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge, SAT 12 – SAT 19 FEBRUARY 2011 Inverness-shire PH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248, Fax 01479 821515 Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guides: John Poyner and Jonny Pott

GROUP HIGHLIGHTS:

A great birding week, one of the highlights being a rogue Capercaillie, close-in and displaying all key plumage features. Other good birds enjoyed by all were close views of Cresties at feeder, White-tailed Eagles, Golden Eagles over the Morvern Glens, Long-Tailed Duck and Velvet Scoter. Our total list of 108 species also included American Wigeon, Great Northern Diver and Snow Bunting.

On our first day on the West Coast we had fantastic views of an otter running across a field, and another highlight was close views of Great Northern Divers on the sea loch. We also enjoyed fantastic views of a White-tailed Eagle with prey along the shore.

In Morvern, Matt found an otter fishing by the roadside, we also went to look for Eagles and saw Golden Eagles over the Morvern Glens. We visited Matt’s pet White Tailed Eagle, and saw 2 perched White-tailed Eagles too! Watching Red Deer close at a feeding station rounded off a fantastic day of wildlife watching.

Later in the week at the Moray Firth we watched a Great Black-backed Gull pulling a strange lumpfish out of the water at Chanonry Point, and found an American Wigeon.

Some of the group enjoyed superb views of a young Golden Eagle, and a Peregrine skydiving with a Raven! All rounded up with another successful evening Badger watching.

A thoroughly enjoyable time was had by all – many thanks to all who joined and made it such fun!

INDIVIDUAL HIGHLIGHTS:

Birding Highlights (selected)

‘Really wanted to see Capercaillie ... that was a mega tick!’

‘Blown away by the Caper!’

‘Every day different…….Caper, Golden Eagle, Goldeneye, Cresty, Badgers, Dolphins, gulls and the group!’

‘Sight of the Great Black-backed Gull with Lumpfish’

‘Caper and Matt’s Eagle so close….loved the west coast’

Non-birding Highlights At the end of the week, our round-up produced a few interesting non-birding highlights amongst all the great sightings enjoyed, including:

‘Enjoyed the little snippets of history…’

‘Atlantic oak wood and Caledonian pine woodland…just being in Scotland’

‘Really enjoyed Moray coast day and Badgers …’

‘Otters and Dolphins’

‘Lovely people’

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd THE TOP TWENTY IN WINTER The Mountview Hotel, NethyBridge, Inverness-shirePH25 3EB SAT 19 – SAT 26 FEBRUARY 2011 Tel: 01479 821248, Fax 01479 821515 Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guides: Ian Ford and Jonny Pott

GROUP HIGHLIGHTS: Our total list of 112 species and 12 mammals We started the week with Red Squirrels from the dining room. After a substantial breakfast we had glimpses of Black Grouse before they flew off, followed by unbeatable views of a male Capercaillie displaying on a forest track. Everyone was amazed at this close sighting where we could see every feather and we will cherish it for ever.

A Merlin was glimpsed far too briefly for many to see it, but everyone saw a pair of Peregrines being blown about by the gale in Strathdearn. Mammals were easier to see with numerous Red Deer, a few Mountain Goats with kids and a Mountain Hare spotted by Frank and Dave J. It was so white and obvious not in the snow ‐ how did we not find it earlier? We set off early on Monday for the west coast and both buses had good views of Blackcock next to the road, followed by Black Guillemots, Slavonian Grebe and Great Northern Divers. Dave J found us our first Otter fishing then eating its prey in front of an envious Heron. Lunch or toilet first was a dilemma but a male Golden Eagle was the decider. He was perched until a female flew past then he displayed to his own mate who we found perched nearby. Two more Golden Eagles were seen later but we were blasé by now with five in one afternoon.

Tuesday we had Matt’s company and quickly found Common Crossbills, some were on the road collecting grit in lovely sunlight. An Otter just offshore looked funny until we could see that it was a bitch with a cub on her back. Two female White‐tailed Eagles distracted us soaring around and perching on the rocks‐ one at least of these birds may be from the released East Scotland birds. A toilet stop allowed more good views of an Otter and then we enjoyed Matt’s young White‐tailed Eagle that he’s training. We did see another two wild White‐tails before we had to come back to Nethy Bridge. Wednesday began with Crested Tits appearing above the buses as we got out then became a great Crossbill day with singing Scottish‐type males as well as prolonged views of Parrot Crossbills, male and female. A cock Caper flew past far too quickly for good views and Brown Hare was on the list. On the Black Isle Red Kites were easy to see and Tree Sparrows were near a toilet! Peter found the drake American Wigeon in perfect light but when all had seen it retreated into a creek. Our anticipated flock of Scaup was rather small with only two birds. For some the day ended with really close views of a pregnant sow Badger, a boar and two of last year’s cubs. “Severe upland gales and low cloud” was the forecast for the Cairngorms so the guides were not optimistic about seeing Ptarmigan. We looked at Black Grouse again on the way to the mountains and were pleased how clear and mild it was at 2000 feet. Sorrel was the star when she saw white birds land on some rocks‐ Yes, they were Ptarmigan and we could all see them moving. Two or three were easy to see from a distance but when four of the group walked up there they could see that there was one male and three females. Brilliant! Dave J did it again with a female Peregrine coming in to land on a crag then it was a long walk for Peter, Bill and Jackie to see a Capercaillie but they saw a large falcon too, almost certainly an escaped Gyr/Saker hybrid. The rest of the group were hunting for a Great Grey Shrike and it was Dave who found this as well. We watched it hunting beetles from stone walls. The rest of the group saw Badgers tonight.

Thanks to Heatherlea guides Ian Ford and Jonny Pott. A thoroughly enjoyable time was had by all – many thanks to all who joined and made it such fun!

HIGHLIGHTS (selected): Birding Highlights: ‘The time on the west with Matt, especially the White‐tailed Eagle and seeing Crossbills collecting grit on the road…….the male Capercaillie was the icing on the cake!’ ‘Matt’s local knowledge helped us get good views of the Eagles and who could forget that Capercaillie….’ ‘Caper and the Crossbills were the highlights as well as such good views of the Badgers….’ ‘The Ptarmigan in the snow were special, as were the Eagles and the Otter with its cub on her back. ‘ ‘I had the best views ever of male Long‐tailed Ducks…!’ ‘The encyclopaedic knowledge of the guides…and their sense of humour!’ ‘The Capercaillie was amazing, and the Otters and Eagles and Black Grouse and EVERYTHING ! ‘ ‘The Caper and the Badgers were special highlights.’ Jonny (guide) ‘We enjoyed wonderful week of wildlife, it’s so rare to see a Capercaillie so well. The fly‐by cock is rather more typical.’

Non‐birding Highlights At the end of the week, our round‐up produced a few interesting non‐birding highlights amongst all the great sightings enjoyed, including: ‘The company was really uplifting as well as the superb wildlife…’ ‘I enjoyed the whole sensual picture, looking into niches, textures and smells as well as the spectacular Capercaillie and Ptarmigan….’ ‘The scenery was spectacular and as a novice really appreciated the help from the group as well as the guides.’ ‘This was our first organised bird watching trip that we have taken in the UK and we were a little anxious about bringing our 12 year old grand‐daughter, but thoroughly enjoyed it! She will remember the Caper and the time with Matt, but also the lack of light pollution so that you can really see the stars.’ ‘I have now seen 4 out of the 5 on my wishlist.....I really appreciated the guides` skill in knowing where to go and finding the wildlife’ Ian (guide)…’this was an excellent week with a great group of guests, especially Sorrel’s young eyes and enthusiasm.’

HEATHERLEA BIRDWATCHING THE MOUNTVIEW HOTEL, NETHY BRIDGE, INVERNESS-SHIRE, PH25 3EH TEL: 01479 821 248 FAX: 01479 821 515 WEBSITE: www.heatherlea.co.uk Email: [email protected]

Your gateway to Scottish birds and wildlife!

Highland Winter Birding – notes from our guides!

On this holiday you can capture the best of Scottish winter birding. Not only do we seek all the key specialities inland including Capercaillie, Black Grouse, Scottish (Parrot) Crossbill, Crested Tit, Ptarmigan, Golden Eagle and more, we also spend time along four different Highland coastlines, including the far north coast, where we spend a night in Thurso. This allows us to visit places often unseen by visiting birders where rarities and uncommon winter visitors turn up virtually every year.

......

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge, Inverness-shirePH25 3EB

HIGHLAND WINTER BIRDING Tel: 01479 821248, Fax 01479 821515 SAT 5 – SAT 12 MARCH 2011 Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guides: Ian Ford and John Poyner

GROUP HIGHLIGHTS: Our total list of 100 species and 9 mammals

On Sunday, in beautiful weather, we went to several local places in Strathspey and up Strathdearn. Highlights included a pair of Common Crossbills that gave us prolonged views as they sat low in a close pine, several white Mountain Hares showing well in the not so snowy hills, Red Deer and Goats with their hardy kids. A Peregrine soared overhead and two different Golden Eagles appeared all too briefly for everyone to get good views and one of them was a young bird with extensive white on the wing.

We headed north in sunshine on Monday and all enjoyed very good views of a close Black‐throated Diver, a Purple Sandpiper and Long‐tailed ducks at Embo before stopping a few more times on our journey to Thurso. At Scrabster we had close views of Black Guillemots in winter and breeding plumage and more good views of Long‐tailed Ducks. A Grey Seal in the harbour wanted some of the bread we threw to attract the gulls but diving was tno an effective way to beat the gulls. Orkney and the local cliffs looked good with the setting sun lighting them up.

Tuesday’s forecast looked bad but there was a beautiful sunrise before the rain came. We all saw Great Northern Divers at close range and Creamy Butterbur in flower before going to Dunnet Head, the most northerly point on the British mainland. It was certainly atmospheric and a traffic delay was caused by the farmer driving his Highland cattle down the road. John O’Groats was deserted and we decided to drive fast south to get ahead of the rain and wind. This was very successful and John P. did well to spot an immature Iceland Gull as he drove past a muck‐spreader.

Ian caught up by seeing an adult Iceland Gull at a toilet stop and we lured this close with some bread. We drove south into gathering snow clouds but we stayed dry.

We woke on Wednesday to a white landscape and this brought Brambling and Siskin to the feeders and one bus had good views of Blackcock in the birches, which Jan spotted. We saw a bobbing Woodcock feeding in the snow thanks to Chris, Mary and John H’s sharp eyes.

Despite gales and snow, we made our way up to the Cairn Gorm car park and had brilliant views of a flock of Snow Buntings coming down to our bread. The weather closed in and prevented us having a good chance of Ptarmigan. At the end of the day we found three Crested Tits and Bullfinches and Tree‐creeper in a snowy forest.

Thursday morning gave us more and more snow but we did all get excellent views of Crested Tits at close quarters and found obliging Red Grouse in a sheltered spot. We also had a magical walk through a pine forest in thick snow. Later in the day we admired a flock of 40 black‐bellied Golden Plover.

It was still very snowy on Friday morning but we reckoned we could get to the Black Isle on the main road. Poor Kathryn got soaked by a selfish driver splashing her with wet snow and Mick came out with the quote of the week ‘They think they own the bloody country…’ to which Ian had to reply ‘They do actually!’

A pair of Red Grouse beside the road showed how well these birds can hide in full view and then we drove past Inverness stopping at a layby where Barbara found three Bullfinches eating buds. At Dingwall more bread throwing by Hazel resulted in a fine adult Ring‐billed Gull approaching very close and we found Tree Sparrows and Scaup nearby. Lunchtime brought more close views of Long‐tailed Ducks before we enjoyed the sight and sound of throngs of Pinkfooted Geese.

There was still time for one more stop to look for Golden Eagles and John P. found one as soon as he stopped his bus. This young male was hunting along a ridge, often giving great views in the scope and it was joined by an older female, allowing us to finish the week on a high. The two birds hung in the cold wind above the hill and clasped talons briefly before disappearing. Too much excitement even to eat our cake!

Exactly one hundred species were seen by the group during the week and highlights included the good views of Iceland and Ring‐billed Gulls, seabirds like Black‐throated Diver and especially Long‐tailed Ducks seen very well and being able to watch a Woodcock on the ground. The walk in the forest in the snowstorm was magical and the grand finale with the two Golden Eagles was simply unforgettable.

Report by Ian Ford with his photos and from Mike Warner, Hazel Johnson, Margaret Vernon, Simon Brown and Chris Rose. More photos can be viewed at our Flickr group at this link… www.flickr.com/groups/1646624@N21/pool/

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge, Inverness-shirePH25 3EB

HIGHLAND WINTER BIRDING Tel: 01479 821248, Fax 01479 821515 SAT 12 – SAT 19 MARCH 2011 Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guides: Jonny Pott and Dave Pullan

GROUP HIGHLIGHTS: Our total list of 106 species and 9 mammals

The week began with heavy snowfall on Sunday morning. The group walked out from the hotel and successfully located a Waxwing in the village as well as Crested Tits… where else in the UK could you find such a winning combination?

Fortunately, the extreme weather conditions had not affected the east coast of Northern Scotland and a slight thaw had set in to ensure our trip north could go ahead. At Embo an impressive flock of Long‐tailed Duck and Common Scoter were riding the waves of a boisterous sea. We located Greenshank at Loch Fleet and an adult Iceland Gull was located at Helmsdale at close quarters while having lunch.

There are more Fulmars at Latheronwheel than last year with Black Guillemots out to sea. Real Rock Doves can be seen in most places along this coast.

After spending a comfortable night at the Station Hotel in Thurso we headed east where at least 4 Great Northern Divers and 2 Red‐throated Divers were located. A shy Black‐ throated Diver put in a brief appearance. A flock of Purple Sandpipers fed among the rocks in between the legs of Oystercatchers. We then shot up to Britain’s most northerly point at Dunnet Head for coffee. At first proving a little elusive, we found the Greenland White‐fronted Goose flock. After stopping off at John O’Groats we returned south with one last stop at Dornoch where a Nordic Jackdaw was found in among the resident birds. A distant Black‐throated Diver was fishing at the river mouth.

Back in Strathspey the snow was still deep, but in the glorious and improving weather, birds proved hard to find! A distant Golden Eagle was seen over the Monadhliath Mountains as a consolation prizer fo not finding the Great Grey Shrike. Up to 20 Snow Buntings put in a stunning appearance at the Cairngorm car park, albeit we struggled to find Ptarmigan. However, we managed to find up to 70 Red Grouse on the snow near the lower car park, plus a distant Peregrine Falcon.

In between the odd spring shower we enjoyed prolonged bright periods on the west coast on Thursday, stopping off to look out for ‘Goldie’. We continued to the coast and settled down to wait for a White‐tailed Eagle appearance – side shows of Great Northern Diver, a flock of Barnacle Geese and Golden Plover kept us amused. Someone just happened to look over their left shoulder at the right moment to see a full adult White‐tailed Eagle coming into view. He flew around our vicinity for at least ten minutes. A group of 6 Black‐throated Divers, most in breeding plumage, were below us. Returning the way we came, this time we were rewarded with stunning overhead views of another adult Golden Eagle.

On the last morning, a visit to the local Black Grouse lek had 3 cocks slowly warming up for the breeding season. Later we had a final search for Caper, we had several brief Crossbill sightings and better views of two Bullfinch families. The rest of the day was spent on the Black Isle with ridiculously close views of several Red Kites. Both Black‐ tailed and Bar‐tailed Godwits were added to our wader list and Tree Sparrow. Finally the week was rounded off with an excellent view of a Ring‐billed Gull in Dingwall.

HEATHERLEA BIRDWATCHING THE MOUNTVIEW HOTEL, NETHY BRIDGE, INVERNESS-SHIRE, PH25 3EH TEL: 01479 821 248 FAX: 01479 821 515 WEBSITE: www.heatherlea.co.uk Email: [email protected]

Your gateway to Scottish birds and wildlife!

MARCH – APRIL 2011

Spring into Scotland – as it happened!

Perhaps the ultimate spring wildlife experience in Scotland! All our resident birds are displaying or breeding, winter birds are still here in good numbers, and summer visitors are arriving daily. We also enjoy a west coast overnight expedition with a full day on the magical isle of Mull, where the birding is fabulous and the scenery unforgettable......

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

SPRING INTO SCOTLAND Heatherlea 21st Anniversary Week The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge, 19 – 26 March 2011 Inverness-shirePH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248, Fax 01479 821515 Email: [email protected] Heatherlea Guide: Ian Ford www.heatherlea.co.uk

Summary On Sunday we had an amazing experience, finding a cock Capercaillie displaying close to a snowy track. We were able to watch it through the telescope undisturbed as it spread its tail and we could see every detail of its feathers before we withdrew. As we walked back to the bus another cock Caper flew past us through the trees. What a start to the week! We drove west on Monday, stopping to admire a Blackcock beside the road before taking the ferry to Mull, where the strong wind was not helpful for finding Eagles. A distant White‐tailed Eagle hanging in the sky was just a shape but a good view of a male Hen Harrier followed by a female cheered us up greatly.

A small flock of Greenland White‐fronted Geese shot past rather quickly but from our lunch stop we had many sightings of Golden and White‐tailed Eagles in the air and were getting better views now. However the best White‐tailed Eagle was spotted by Alison as we made a cup of tea on the return ferry. An immature bird took off beside the boat and was mobbed by Ravens, Hooded Crows, Buzzards and Great Black‐backed Gulls as it gained height. It went round and round and we could all enjoy this slow motion view and appreciate how big this species was as it dwarfed all its harassers. Weo had als seen a group of Rock Doves in a field and could see the markings of this scarce bird.

Tuesday gave us our only glimpse of an Otter across the loch as it swam then unhelpfully climbed over the rocks and disappeared. A compensation though was the superb view we got of an adult Golden Eagle soaring around a crag with accompanying croaking Ravens, again letting us all see how big Golden Eagles are. Great Northern Divers and Slavonian Grebes gave us excellent views today as well but a bonus was a close Black‐Throated Diver.

On Wednesday the weather allowed us to go and look for Ptarmigan from the Ski Centre. The track up was too treacherous to consider walking but I found a Ptarmigan walking across grey rocks which let the first few of the group see it the easy way. Unfortunately the bird then chose to sit on the snow and was almost impossible to locate. Crested Tits were elusive but three birds were chasing around near the bus in the forest. A group of Parrot Crossbills sang below us in the forest but were always chasing around making it hard for us all to get clear views.

Peter R joined us for Thursday and Friday and he found Sand Martins on Loch Garten as the rest of us heard but could not find a Crested Tit. We headed for the coast, stopping for displaying Red Grouse and drumming Snipe on the way and 2 Sandwich Terns were an early surprise at Nairn. A close flock of Scaup included a hybrid Scaup x Tufted Duck which was a good learning opportunity.

We finished off the week along the Moray coast finding Tree Sparrows and a Chiffchaff. Two Gadwall were the first I’ve seen on this part of the coast. In the afternoon we saw a lovely group of Purple Sandpipers with Turnstones and were getting good views of Long‐ tailed Ducks and Common Scoters before concluding with well‐lit Velvet Scoters.

On Friday evening there was a Gala dinner celebrating the 21st year of Heatherlea with past and present staff. With seven Heatherlea guides at the table, and Kevin and Caryl joining us too, a good time was had by all.

Photos by Ian Ford, Jeanne Silvestri, David Middleton, Caroline Hill and Giselle Sterry.

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge, Inverness-shirePH25 3EB SPRING INTO SCOTLAND Tel: 01479 821248, Fax 01479 821515 SAT 26 MARCH – SAT 4 APRIL 2011 Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk Heatherlea Guides: Ian Ford and Dave Pullan

Sunday started off brilliantly with a wonderful view of a cock Capercaillie with his tail spread. The bird was at a safe distance to be scoped without causing any stress and the group enjoyed this magnificent start.

A local loch gave us good views of a family of Whooper Swans and a Peregrine interacting with one of the many Buzzards. A visit to a crag then allowed even better views of a pair of Peregrines flying and perched before lunching at a forest site with good views of Common Crossbills. Later an upland loch produced both Red‐throated and Black‐throated Divers in breeding plumage and very close views of cock Red Grouse displaying their red eyebrows. Coming back through farmland we saw a leucistic Greylag Goose and Jean showed her spotting skills by finding a superb male Wheatear.

An early start on Monday to visit Mull let us see Blackcock at the lek, bluish necks bulging and tails spread, then Black Guillemots at close range. While we had coffee waiting for the ferry, an Otter obliged by fishing in front of us then we twitched a Pied‐ billed Grebe that had been found a few days ago. Dave’s persistence paid off when he found the bird asleep hiding its bill. Just as we were about to go it woke up and swam around for us to see its main feature well.

Lunch let us catch up with both Eagle species and a flock of Rock Doves as well as several Slavonian Grebes and Great Northern Divers. A second Otter was seen from the ferry on the return trip. Driving back to our hotel the rare lack of wind produced stunning reflections of the snowy hills on the sea loch. An evening foray provided the most popular highlight of the week, a Pine Marten standing up on its hind legs to peer at our buses before coming to take sandwiches.

Tuesday was relaxing as we headed back to the Mountview with Colin finding an immature Iceland Gull on a beach and numerous Great Northern Divers. We lunched looking at Common Seals on an offshore skerry, then checked out an Osprey nest hoping for a returning bird.

We had not heard a Crested Tit when we had walked in the forest but this all changed on Wednesday when good views of singing birds turned into brilliant views of a nest site thanks to Fred. We could watch the bird coming to the nesthole with moss and lichen (and the guides hoped this would make life easy for us for the next few weeks!). A pair of Red‐throated Divers performed their courtship dance for us at a loch on the way to lunch then we set off up a glen to look for a Great Grey Shrike, which showed well despite the strong tail wind. The birding day finished with a brief sight of a male Parrot Crossbill sharing a tree with Common Crossbills and half of the group went to see Badgers in the evening.

A rainy start on Thursday didn’t get in the way much as we looked at Velvet and Common Scoters and got our first of many good views of Long‐tailed Ducks on the coast. We had several sightings of pods of Bottle‐nosed Dolphins quite close in and later we found our other target bird, Purple Sandpiper. In the evening the rest of the group went to see Badgers and I may be wrong but I’m sure that they said they saw five!

Friday was April Fool’s Day and Dave stopped in the middle of a town. Was he joking when he said he had found a flock of 15 Waxwings? No he wasn’t, he had heard them as he drove along and this was a real treat for everyone as they sat above our heads before diving down to feed in a roadside bush. In a firth we saw a flock of 211 Scaup, a wonderful sight and different from the ones and twos usually found in England. Tree Sparrows were around at lunchtime and then we went to Loch Garten to round off the week. EJ, the well‐blogged female Osprey, flew in to the nest just as we arrived and we could watch her checking for intruders and doing some repairs while she waited for her mate to arrive from Africa.

The group had seen a total of 117 species of birds and mammals included Red Squirrels and Mink as well as the ones mentioned above.

Many people said the Capercaillie, Crested Tits, Pine Marten and Badgers were highlights but Tim added that he had seen pictures of Waxwings in birdbooks since he was a child and it was brilliant to see the birds finally. Colin had stood up in class when he was 8 to talk about Tits and after a long wait he had seen Crested Tits wonderfully well. Caroline, Peter and Ann made a special mention of the scenery on the west coast and there were several comments about how helpful the group members were to each other. Linda had been anxious that her crutches would really limit her enjoyment of the week but was delighted. Tributes were paid to the guides’ skills and organisation of the week and the result was that everyone had had a great week.

Photos from Ian Ford and Colin Crew.

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

SPRING INTO SCOTLAND SAT 2 – SAT 9 APRIL 2011 The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge, Inverness-shirePH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248, Fax 01479 821515 Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk Heatherlea Guides: Jonny Pott and John Poyner

Summary of week Sunday: Highlights included a pair of Black‐throated Divers in full breeding plumage. Close views of displaying Red Grouse on moors. Common Crossbills scoped feeding on cones.

Monday: Searched for Pied‐billed Grebe on Mull in awful weather, no luck. Heavy rain till lunch meant we saw little apart from some Wheatears from the bus. We finally got views of a pair of White‐tailed Eagles on a nest, then Jonny spotted an Otter feeding close by on the shoreline. Finally we managed to get great views of three Golden Eagles in flight and also a White‐tailed Eagle before leaving Mull.

Tuesday: Close views of Great Northern Divers at Loch Linnhe. Slavonian Grebes in summer plumage at Loch Ruthven alongside a summer Red‐throated Diver.

Wednesday: Heavy rain all day, searched for Grouse and Ring‐billed Gull without success. Flock of 100+ Scaup on the Cromarty Firth. Also flocks of Pink‐footed Geese in the roadside fields. Numerous waders at Udale Bay included Bar‐tailed Godwit and Black‐tailed Godwit. We also had good views of Red Kites over the A9.

Thursday: A walk in the woods gave us views through the scope of Parrot Crossbills, a pair feeding together. At the Moray Firth there were small groups of Common Scoter and a few remaining Long‐tailed Ducks. We saw a drake Scaup with Tufted Ducks at a quiet loch, though today’s highlight was great views of around 80 Purple Sandpiper on a sea wall. These Redshanks were also welcome!

Friday: An early start gave us lekking Black Grouse. Our search for Capercaillie was unsuccessful, though a few of us managed to see Crested Tit.

Individual Highlights: Jan: ‘Wonderful White‐tailed Eagle. Golden Eagle in flight.’ Tony: ‘Purple Sandpipers in flock. Black Grouse lekking.’ Norman: ‘Pine martens.’ Jane: ‘Otter eating fish on Mull. Osprey diving close and calling.’ Pam: ‘Seeing a pair of Ospreys newly arrived at the nest. Chance to see Sea Duck.’ Alan: ‘Hares boxing. Enjoyed all the birds.’ Roger: ‘Gannets diving and Brown Hares boxing.’ Chris: ‘Drake Eider and huge flock of Geese in field.’ William: ‘Everything in photographic distance!’

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

SPRING INTO SCOTLAND

9 – 16 APRIL 2011

The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge, Inverness-shirePH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248, Fax 01479 821515 Heatherlea Guides: John Poyner and Dave Pullan Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk

Summary

Sunday 10 April The day, and the week, began with a walk along a forestry track where we found two Crested Tits, one of them posing well at the top of a Pine against the blue sky. A Tree Pipit flying around giving its distinctive call was the first of the season.

Morning tea and coffee with Ospreys at a local nest. The female was already eating a fish and the male soon flew in carrying a huge pike, which he then began devouring on a branch lower down the same tree. Several Goldeneye on the loch near the island.

Lunch was spent overlooking the freshwater loch near Boat Of Garten; Little Grebe, Coot and Tufted Duck. Then we met up with Kevin for a walk across some bird‐friendly farmland at Balliefurth. At least 50 Pink‐footed Geese outnumbered the Greylags and 3 Shelduck were a surprise (a less than annual visitor to inland Speyside). Two male Red‐ breasted Mergansers flew upriver, while all around us were the sounds of Lapwings, Redshanks, Curlews, Snipe and Skylarks. 23 degrees and definitely T‐shirt weather.

Next stop, the high moors, where several Red Grouse showed well on the heather moorland and two Black‐throated Divers were on the loch. Finally a short walk into woods was well worth it for the vivid red male Crossbill perched for a lengthy period at the top of a dead tree.

Monday 11 April Heading out west we stopped off near Loch Laggan to look for Black Grouse. Three or four lekking males soon flew off but we found them again just a little further on, feeding in larches right by the road.

Next stop the ferry (Black Guillemots), then a drive across the Morvern peninsula to Lochaline for the ferry crossing (Great Northern Diver) over to Mull. From Loch na Keal we found our first Golden Eagles (two, maybe three) and an immature White‐tailed Eagle. Then a scenic drive following the coastline. Views out across to the Treshnish Isles including Staffa and Lunga, and Iona in the distance. Lots of sheep and an adult White‐ tailed Eagle, which flew overhead in the brilliant blue sky.

Further round we were able to train telescopes on to a White‐tailed Eagle sitting on its nest, then further round still we watched an Otter on Loch Scridain. A pair of Hen Harriers, two more Golden Eagles (including great views of one flying against a crag in good light showing off all its colouration, see picture above by Sylvia Brennan), another pair of Hen Harriers and yet another Golden Eagle completed our tour of Mull. But the day wasn’t over yet. After dinner at our hotel we set off in search of Pine Martens and were rewarded with repeated views of three animals at close‐range.

Tuesday 12 April Breeding plumage Greenshank at Strontian got the day off to a good start soon followed by a feeding Otter on Loch Sunart. First Cuckoo of the summer at Kingairloch, then Eiders, Great Northern Divers and Black Guillemots from the coastal road as we began the journey back to Nethy Bridge. Three summer plumage Slavonian Grebes and several feral goats from the same road. Only a few Common Seals on the ‘Seal islands’ at Sallachan and a White Wagtail feeding on the shoreline. Black Guillemots again near the ferry. Back in Speyside, Loch Insh produced a Red‐throated Diver and Loch Vaa came up with a smart Slavonian Grebe.

Wednesday 13 April The first mystery of the day, a broken mini‐bus window, was skilfully repaired with cardboard and gaffer tape. Craftsmanship at its finest. At Craigellachie NNR, we made good use of our time eating shortbread and watching the female Peregrine perched on a ledge on the crag.

A tour round the dirt tracks of a private estate failed to find Capercaillie, at least not a live one. The second mystery of the day was a freshly dead male Caper, completely intact at the side of the track. Sad to see but still impressive.

Near Carrbridge we found a solitary Golden Plover. Lots of the commoner waders along Carr Road; Oystercatchers, Lapwings and Curlews as well as a pair of Wigeon and a couple of Brown Hares. A Dipper on the River Dulnain was new for the week.

By late afternoon the wind had become quite strong so we soon gave up searching for Crossbills amongst the swaying tree tops. Final stop of the day was at a local spot where a male Black Grouse was a good find on a distant hillside.

Thursday 14 April Third time lucky for Capercaillie. A return visit looking for the rogue male was successful; tail fanned open and neck stretched vertically in full display posture. We watched from a safe distance as he slowly moved through the pines making clicking and popping noises. Highlight of the week for many.

Ideal conditions for tackling the slopes of Cairngorm from above the Coire Cas car‐park, but unfortunately no sign of the hoped for Ptarmigan despite putting in plenty of effort. Two female Ring Ouzels and a (still white) Mountain Hare.

Calling in at Loch Garten on the way home, we found our third Otter of the week.

Friday 15 April A day on the Moray Firth coast. Cute Tree Sparrows at their nestbox colony, followed by a scanning session overlooking Spey Bay. Amongst a good selection of birds were, unusually, a pair of Gadwall, but even more of a surprise were three Lapland Buntings that flew through calling. Sandwich Terns over the sea.

A quick look at Loch Oire (Moorhen), then on to the Moray coast. A White Wagtail on the saltmarsh estuary but no Purple Sandpipers at the harbour (great views of a male Long‐tailed Duck instead). At least five more White Wagtails near the river mouth, along with another surprise in the form of a rather smart Scandinavian Rock Pipit.

Lunch at the West Beach, Lossiemouth, coincided with a specially arranged Tornado jet fly‐past. More sea‐watching and a tour of the harbour at Burghead. A stunning Yellowhammer, a few Eiders and slightly closer views than earlier of Common Scoters. Finishing off at a quiet location we saw Black‐throated Divers, Red‐throated Diver and an Osprey over the sea.

Highlights Bill: Slavonian Grebe Claire: Close views of Tree Sparrows peering from boxes Maurice: Osprey with huge pike in tree Glenys: Quality of the light; Golden Eagle against rock face Alan: Golden Eagle against rock face; Capercaillie Sylvia: Pine Marten and Crestie Wendy: Views of Black‐throated Divers but it was all great Audrey: Views of Capercaillie Malcolm: Views of Capercaillie Rita: Otter and Pine Martens Brian: Otters, close views of Capercaillie Brenda: Pine Marten – better than Brown Bears in Romania! Alan: Black Grouse, Drake Long‐tailed Duck Stuart: Slavonian Grebe – the bird I most wanted to see up in Scotland – and Great Northern Divers.

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT SPRING INTO SCOTLAND The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge, Inverness-shirePH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248, Fax 01479 821515 SATURDAY 16 – SATURDAY 23 APRIL 2011 Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk Heatherlea Guides: Jonny Pott and Kevin Shaw.

Saturday 16 April Arrival, welcome, dinner and briefing. All transport links were on time, and so everyone is rested and ready to begin tomorrow!

Sunday 17 April Everyone has seen Red Squirrel on the hotel feeders by the time breakfast is finished, and so we are starting with smiles on our faces. Today we enjoy one of the most memorable wildlife experiences possible in the Scottish Highlands, as a rogue Capercaillie displayed in full view of our group. This beautiful bird paraded for us, showing its subtle colours – green, brown, grey, red, white and ivory; this certainly is not a plain black bird!

We took care to approach slowly, and together as a group. The bird, high in a Scots Pine, began to call as we inched closer, finally flying down to the ground, and approaching us on the forest track. Photographers had a field day, and we are content within a few minutes, leaving this glorious male in undisputed mastery of his terrain. What an experience!

As we left the area, both guides heard a singing Crested Tit. The bird seemed to be sitting in the open – surely not? Yes, our luck was in today, and there he was, sitting alert and proud atop a tiny pine, clear for us all to see. For the second time in a few minutes, we left wildlife in place where we had found it as we quietly headed for our minibuses.

Our next stop was at a quite public Osprey nest, where one bird was sitting in a nearby tree. A couple of migrating Greenshank were a welcome sight, and a loo stop helped us produce a Peregrine for the group, as it patiently waited on a dead branch near its chosen breeding area. Before lunch we spied a Slavonian Grebe on a nearby loch, not a breeding spot, but a regular place for incoming migrants.

Our lunchbreak was taken high eon th moors, in a place where the only sound is the wind and the wildlife, miles from main roads, with a panoramic view all around – this is Scotland! Refreshed after a second loo stop, we headed for two quiet lochs where we could expect both of our breeding divers, and were treated to both Black‐ and Red‐ throated – good views of both for all. Lots of Red Grouse showing, as the males jostle for females and territory, and we finished with a marvellous treat for Strathspey, an adult Golden Eagle flying across the moorlands. A perfect end to a fabulous day’s birding.

Monday 18 April

Heatherlea’s Spring into Scotland itinerary is fantastic, as we combine the wildlife of our home patch with – marvellous Mull! Off we go at around 7am, with excellent views of Black Grouse from the roadside as we travel. We all see the blue/black plumage, lyre‐ shaped tail and red comb above the eye of this co‐operative male bird. By the time we reach Mull we have seen Hooded Crow, Grey and Common Seals, and taken photos of courting Black Guillemot – eight birds on their favourite ledge, with another in the water.

Sunshine all the way on Mull, and we decide which way to go round the island – this is important, we need to consider the ‘lifting’ nature of the winds to maximise our chances. This is a great time of the year for eagles, and we know where to look, so by late afternoon a conservative tally is of 15 different birds, 8 White‐tailed and 7 Golden Eagles. Perhaps the best sightings were of an adult White‐tailed seeing a juvenile off its territory, and a Goldie gliding directly above us as a Raven twists and turns to annoy.

We learn about ‘jizz’, get used to the shape and colouration of both species, and eventually see so many that we start to assume that new sightings must be the birds already seen coming back around.

Two separate Otter sightings are most welcome, with both animals fishing and moving around for us. One playfully removes a Shag from its rocky perch, and this large dog otter gives wonderful views.

We head for our Hotel on the west coast, and after dinner are met by our friendly Pine Marten chaperone. By the end of our evening drive, everyone has enjoyed fantastic views of four Martens, at a very private site not available to anyone else. Another wonderful day!

Tuesday 19 April Today we head back east to Mountview Hotel, but not before another west coast exploration. Our main target is moulting Great Northern Diver, locally common at this time as they slowly work northwards towards breeding grounds. We see at least five birds, all in view at the same time with a backdrop of mountain cliffs plummeting directly into the sea. Another unforgettable experience! Twite in breeding plumage are dapper and beautiful, and today we spend a little time checking out the seals hauled onto a favourite island.

A favourite stop on the way home produces a single female Common Crossbill, we hear Black Grouse popping and cooing, and the undoubted highlight is a Hooded Crow harassing an adult Golden Eagle, driving the bird directly over our heads. This takes our tally to 17 eagles in three days – perhaps we should look for something else now?

Wednesday 20 April The prolonged spell of good weather holds firm, so we decide to visit Cairngorm. This mountain environment must be treated with respect, and we have a slow walk to ensure that everyone walks at their own pace. Red Grouse are on territory at lower levels, and we enjoy further great views. The guides try to read the mountain – snow is melting, there are lots of wet patches, but some bits look drier – where would we go if we were Ptarmigan? It takes time to ascend the steep ridge we choose, and Kevin works the mountain while Jonny keeps the group moving slowly. After less than an hour we are rewarded, a pair of Ptarmigan allow us close access. The greyish male is keeping a very close eye on the brownish female, and clearly this pair are planning to breed here in the near future. We take photos from a safe distance, enjoy the breathtaking views (without approaching any edges!), and return happy. Two of the group stopped at the steepest part, and over lunch Jonny thoughtfully scans the ridge opposite, eventually finding another distant Ptarmigan for them to see.

This would be enough for most days, but we are on a mission to find all the specialities, and an afternoon cuppa in the right place produces Scottish (Parrot) Crossbill. We are able to scope a juvenile male bird sitting forlornly alone in a favourite dead tree. Eventually a second bird joins him, and we also get second views of Crested Tit. Once again, we leave wildlife in place, sitting exactly where we first found the birds, just what we like to do!

Thursday 21 April Now that we have seen all the major Scottish specialities, we begin to enjoy some more fantastic birding along the Moray coast. Wildlife here is exceptional, perhaps because of the presence of Bottle‐nosed Dolphin, gathering now to take advantage of the incoming salmon. There are no dolphin at our first port of call, but farmland birding includes good views of Tree Sparrow, Yellowhammer and Corn Bunting. Out to sea there are duck and divers, and we visit two quiet inland lochs, where about half the group collect another Otter. We work along the coast, finding Purple Sandpiper, Gannet, Common Scoter and the first migrating terns. The most memorable part of the day however finds us watching a pod of about 15‐18 Bottle‐nosed Dolphin, which leap out of the water and delight us for over ten minutes as they work east towards Spey Bay, where they presumably would be logged by the spotters of the WDCS – hope they saw them!

Friday 22 April Today we round up the last few elusive local birds, including Dipper, Golden Plover and a couple more, also finding time to visit Loch Fleet and Dornoch in the north. The rarity we have in mind is Ross’s Goose, found by Heatherlea guide Mike Coleman a few days earlier and seen only yesterday … but we miss out – that’s wildlife! Perhaps we have used all our luck earlier in the week? We see Pintail, Iceland Gull and a few other new species, ending the day at a quiet, private glen where we go through gates to reach an idyllic spot by the rushing River Findhorn. An ideal place to end our adventure. The birdlist is an impressive 131 species, but more importantly, everyone has enjoyed great views of all the special birds. We also have unforgettable memories of Pine Marten, Otter and Bottle‐nosed Dolphin, a total of 13 mammals, reptiles and amphibians is pleasing to us all.

Above all we didn’t rush, or disturb any wildlife, had great views for the whole group, and enjoyed each others’ company every day. A lovely week in glorious Highland sunshine throughout!

Trip Report: Kevin Shaw. Photos: Kevin Shaw, Jonny Pott, Tommy Shropshire.

Guest highlights: Paul: Came back because last time was brilliant, but the quality was even better, particularly the dolphins. Cathy: Seeing the Caper chasing Kevin. Nice to be around people who care. Tommy: Every day was a new adventure! Amazing to have travelled this far, and it’s not too different. Diana: Seeing species different from my own area. Ian: Everything’s been new. Highlight has been Jonny, followed by Golden Eagle. Lorna and Harry: Great spotting and staff. Eric: Dolphins, White‐tailed Eagles and Pine Martens and a lifer. Robert: I really don’t want to go home! Matt: Enjoyed the family of Pine Martens. Chris: Came up to Scotland for a number of years for Corn Buntings. The company has been brilliant. Gayna: Watching Caper chasing people. Simon: Extra‐special week. Fantastic sightings and staff. Chris: Desperate to see Dipper, great to see them. Ingrid: Mammals. Dolphins, Pine Marten and homo sapiens from Wales. Eleanora: Delighted with Pine Martens. Deborah: The Ptarmigan blending in so well with the rock.

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

SPRING INTO SCOTLAND The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge, Saturday 23 – Saturday 30 April 2011 Inverness-shirePH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248, Fax 01479 821515 Email: [email protected] Heatherlea Guides: Jonny Pott and John Poyner www.heatherlea.co.uk

Summary:

Sunday 24 April Highlights today were the rogue Capercaillie, Crested Tit and Common Crossbills. We also saw a Tawny Owl flying in daylight in Abernethy. Black‐ and Red‐throated Divers were in summer plumage, and a Black‐throated Diver emerged from the water to nest build.

Monday 25 April The group had close views of Black Grouse in roadside trees. On Mull there was a White‐ tailed Eagle at the nest, plus numerous flying Golden Eagles. We had good views of Otter swimming near to the shore, and of Pine Martens very close to the van.

Tuesday 26 April We had superb views of Great Northern Divers at Loch Linnhe, and Black Guillemots. Singing Grasshopper Warblers were heard near Strontian. At Loch Ruthven, Slavonian Grebes in breeding plumage were displaying.

Wednesday 27 April The weather was spectacular, we walked up Cairn Gorm and found Ptarmigan and some early Dotterel. At the end of the day we watched Ospreys at the nest.

Thursday 28 April We headed for the Moray Firth, and saw Common Terns fishing at Spey Bay and a pair of Long‐tailed Duck close to shore. At a quiet loch we found Scaup close to the hide, but the highlight of the day was finally finding the White‐billed Diver, its bill gleaming in the sunlight. We also enjoyed close views of Dunlin and Ringed Plover feeding at Lossiemouth Estuary, and an Osprey was fishing overhead at lunchtime.

Friday 29 April We found fledged Common Crossbills in pine woods, and also enjoyed more views of Golden Eagles, and Ring Ouzel singing from a house roof. A Mountain Hare was seen beside the bus, moulting out of its winter coat. Herds of Red Deer ran down the hillside, spooked by the Eagles. At Cromarty we found Red Kites and Razorbills, Guillemots and Fulmars.

The weather was stunning all week, giving us great views of everything in good light.

Individual highlights Brian: Best view ever of Capercaillie. Joyce: White‐billed Diver and Ring Ouzel. Terry: Seeing specialities I had hoped to see! Osprey fishing on the Moray Firth. Paul: I saw all I had hoped to see, Pine Marten especially. Helga: Eight firsts, which is brilliant. Crested Tit and Dipper were highlights, and the weather was unexpected! Denise: Enjoyed Ptarmigan after the walk up Cairn Gorm. Steve: More of the same as Helga. Dotterel was a bonus, a huge highlight. Cate: I’ve enjoyed all of it. Lovely views of Black Grouse on a beautiful morning. Hans: Views of Black‐throated Diver outstanding, and I enjoyed the views of Twite. Don: I got loads and loads of Lifers. Seeing the rogue Capercaillie on the first day – lovely. Dave:g Seein some birds in summer plumage that I’ve never seen before. Alan: Getting my half dozen target species, Black Guillemot especially, Twite, White‐ tailed Eagle and Ring Ouzel, enjoyed that.

Trip report and photographs: Jonny Pott and John Poyner

HEATHERLEA BIRDWATCHING THE MOUNTVIEW HOTEL, NETHY BRIDGE, INVERNESS‐SHIRE, PH25 3EB TEL: 01479 821 248 FAX: 01479 821 515 WEBSITE: www.heatherlea.co.uk Email: [email protected]

Your gateway to Scottish birds and wildlife!

MAY 2011

Birding the Highlands in May – notes from our guides!

Birding the wonderful Scottish Highlands in May is one of the greatest pleasures available in the UK. With summer visitors arriving in good numbers, and key speciality birds still displaying or breeding, there is so much going on! We enjoy six tremendous days within striking distance of our Hotel here in Nethy Bridge. All the special birds of the Scottish Highlands are targeted, and this holiday is ideal for the first time visitor or the seasoned expert. Birding the Highlands in May is an exceptional opportunity to see all the Scottish specialities......

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd The Mountview Hotel, Nethybridge, Inverness-shire PH25 3EB BIRDING THE HIGHLANDS IN MAY Tel: 01479 821248 Fax: 01479 821515 Email: [email protected] Saturday 30 April – Saturday 7 May 2011 www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guides: John Poyner, Jozef Leestmans

Summary of week

Saturday 30 April: Arrival, welcome, dinner and briefing.

Sunday 1 May: Good views of Capercaillie, followed by the Ospreys on a nest at a public viewpoint. Today was a great round‐ up day with local specialities all showing well. Super view of Redstart singing, Black‐ and Red‐throated Divers in breeding plumage at moorland lochs, and a Crested Tit on top of a tree.

Monday 2 May: We travelled to the west coast, the scenery was looking spectacular in the gorgeous weather. We had good views of Great Northern Divers on the sea in various stages of plumage.

Tuesday 3 May: Mountain day today with Jozef. Everyone enjoyed a lovely walk in the sunshine and had close views of Ptarmigan and a pair of Dotterel.

Wednesday 4 May: We enjoyed the beautiful scenery of Strathdearn, with its herds of Red Deer visible on the mountainsides. The highlight was excellent views of a young Golden Eagle soaring overhead.

We stopped for lunch beside a stream on the Farr road, and enjoyed a remarkable view of a Common Crossbill. We had a quick stop for a Wood Warbler in a Beech wood, and later had good views of Slavonian Grebe at Loch Ruthven. We heard a Grasshopper Warbler there but were unable to locate it.

Thursday 5 May: A few forays for a very elusive Ring Ouzel, to no avail. All saw a Parrot Crossbill in Poorhouse Wood. We headed north and enjoyed watching the Dolphins at Chanonry Point, and saw them again later near Cromarty, leaping from the water. At the Cromarty Firth we found a small group of Scaup and a few remaining Pink‐ footed Geese.

Friday 6 May: Today’s highlight was getting the White‐billed Diver off Burghead! Also close views of Common Terns from the hide at Spynie, and separating Common from Arctic Terns as they flew past at Spey Bay.

Individual highlights Christine: Good views of Great Northern Diver. Celia: Crossbill at stream. Eider diving. Christina: All the specialities we saw. Keith: Cairn Gorm day. Seeing Dotterel. Choice of picnic sites! Alan: Seeing Dotterel at last. Arthur: Good view of Redstart and Capercaillie. Anthony: Cairngorms. Collection of Divers. West coast. Steve: Food! Capercaillie outstanding. White‐billed Diver. Mike: Seeing specialities on first visit to Scotland. We had outstanding views of all the specials we came to see.

Trip Report: John Poyner

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

BIRDING THE HIGHLANDS IN MAY

Saturday 7 – Saturday 14 May 2011 Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge, Inverness-shire PH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248, Fax 01479 821515 Heatherlea Guides: Ian Ford, Jonny Pott Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk

The week’s highlights;

Saturday 7 May: Arrival, welcome, dinner and briefing.

Sunday 8 May: Cock Capercaillie displaying, a Slow Worm in hand for some. A pair of Ospreys at the nest, an immature Golden Eagle being mobbed by a Buzzard and a Raven. Ridiculously close Red Grouse.

Monday 9 May: Prolonged view of Goshawk overhead. Very good light on Long‐ tailed Duck and Common Scoter. Little, Common and Arctic Terns and a fishing Osprey. Young Tawny Owls in nestbox. In the evening, half the group saw three Badgers in daylight and a Woodcock, and used a Bat detector for Pipistrelles.

Tuesday 10 May: Superb views of a pair of Parrot Crossbills and brief views of a family of Scottish Crossbills. Flyby Hobby. Jonny finding a Peregrine on a rock.

Wednesday 11 May: Wonderful Greenshank and Great Northern Divers, then seeing the red on the Red‐throated Divers. Excellent flock of 30 Twite and a Whimbrel. Gill spotted a White Tailed Eagle soaring and the finale was a close pair of Black‐throated Divers.

Thursday 12 May: ‘Jumpy’ Crested Tits not staying still. Red Kite and finally a male Ring Ouzel. Wonderful flock of 43 Golden Plover followed by close Common Crossbill. Elusive Wood Warbler. Off to Black Isle where we finished with an active pod of Bottlenosed Dolphins. In the evening, Badgers again and Ted finally saw a Woodcock!

Friday 13 May: Ptarmigan and Dotterel, amazing behaviour. Other half of group saw Osprey and Peregrines. At Loch Garten Osprey nest, EJ turned the eggs.

Individual highlights

Polly: Amazing Ring Ouzel, Caper and Black‐throated Divers, so close.

John: Didn’t expect to see anything new but the Black‐throated Divers were special.

Nick: The main moment was the Capercaillie, but Ptarmigan were great too.

Dave: Did not expect to see Caper and Badgers.

Carol: Have to go for the Crestie. I reckon I saw the Crestie that is in my bird book.

Robin: Watching the Dotterel with the male making the scrape.

Gill: Black‐throated Divers, Eagles and Harriers because they are big.

Jim: Contradict that completely. For me it was the Twite that was special because it was small and obscure.

Ann: Caper because of a great sighting and it didn’t disappear into the bushes.

John: Slavonian Grebes in the sun and the Blackcock.

Gordon: Never thought I would get a lifer but Parrot Crossbill was, also seeing Divers and the Ring Ouzel in his dinner jacket.

Geoff: Have to go with Goshawk because it’s a lifer and also the posing Whinchat.

Jean: Black‐throated Divers and unexpected baby Tawny Owl.

Ted: Caper was great to see, not just a tail or a head, and also the Badgers.

Anthony: Enjoyed the peace and quiet and the hills and scenery.

Karen: Gelled with the group – thank you Ian and Jonny for your help. Enjoyed the Crossbill, Caper and the Slow Worm!

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

BIRDING THE HIGHLANDS IN MAY

SATURDAY 14 – SATURDAY 21 MAY 2011 Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge Inverness‐shire PH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248 Fax: 01479 821515 Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guides: John Poyner and Dave Pullan.

Saturday 14 May Arrival, welcome, dinner and briefing.

Sunday 15 May A good start to the day with a displaying male rogue Capercaillie.

We had good views of Osprey at the nest near Kincraig, as well as a female Goldeneye with at least 14 small ducklings on Loch Insh, and a Stoat near Kincraig village. An adult Peregrine on the crags behind Aviemore finished off the morning.

In the afternoon we saw two Black‐throated Divers, and also Red Grouse, including a pair with small chicks. We finished the day at Abernethy Forest, where we saw several Crossbills, including a perched male and 3 recently fledged juveniles, as well as 2 Crested Tits.

Monday 16 May To a very windy Findhorn valley in the morning, with 2 Peregrines and a Ring Ouzel. At Farr we saw a singing Wood Warbler, and at last 5 Slavonian Grebes and a Red‐ throated Diver at Loch Ruthven. The wind was still making things difficult in the afternoon but a Short‐eared Owl was a good end to the day.

Tuesday 17 May The walkers set off from CairnGorm car park and had a good day, finding a pair of Ptarmigan and a pair of Dotterel. The non‐mountaineers had good views of Crested Tit visiting a nest, and a Crossbill feeding on pine cones. They also saw Goosanders at Loch Morlich, Wood Warbler near Loch an Eilein and Spotted Flycatcher at Loch Vaa. We all regrouped to finish off the day with a visit to Insh Marshes, where we had great views of Spotted Flycatcher, and Loch Insh.

Wednesday 18 May To the west coast, where the bad weather meant no Eagles or Otters today. Spent some time trying to identify a mystery singing bird in some scrub near Mellon Udrigle. Conclusion was it was an odd‐sounding Lesser Whitethroat. Views of summer plumaged Great Northern Divers in Gruinard Bay and ‘real’ Rock Doves over the farmland. Twite in the dunes at the picturesque Mellon Udrigle, where we had lunch.

Thursday 19 May Our search for Eagles was fruitful after patience, with a bird soaring over the ridges of Coignafearn. Then on to Loch Ruthven where we all got great views of Slavonian Grebes and summer plumaged Red‐throated Divers. On the way we stopped to find Wood Warbler in a small Beech wood.

Friday 20 May The Moray Firth produced Corn Buntings and Tree Sparrow on farmland. Chance to separate Arctic and Common Terns flying around Spey Bay. Great views of an Osprey fishing over the waves. Highlight was a migrating flock of Dunlin and ‘northern’ Ringed Plover feeding right in front of us at lunch, giving us all a chance to see these birds close up. We also spotted a group of Bottle‐nosed Dolphins hanging around offshore at Spey Bay.

Individual Highlights

Tony: A very enjoyable week, excellent guiding. Great experiences of the Capercaillie, Dolphins, Ptarmigan and Dotterel.

Denis: Good views of Goldie. All 3 Divers in breeding plumage.

Frank: Golden Eagle view.

Dan: Red‐throated Diver at Ruthven. Singing Tree Pipit. Seeing Alpine Pansies.

Dave: Ptarmigan at close quarters. Food!

Mike: Being with other birders. Ptarmigan, Dotterel and Dolphins.

Marie: Nine lifers. Female Ptarmigan plumage. Capercaillie. Seawatching.

Alan: So many highlights, Ptarmigan and Dotterel especially.

Christine: To actually see Red Squirrels and Capercaillie in real life.

Martin: Enjoyed being with the group and sharing knowledge. Badger watching was excellent.

Trip Report: John Poyner and Dave Pullan.

Your gateway to Scottish birds and wildlife!

......

May – June 2011

High Season across the Highlands – notes from our guides!

On this tremendous two‐centre holiday, we enjoy all the species that make Scotland so special. We combine the tranquil Caledonian pinewoods and the vast Cairngorm mountain plateau with an overnight stay to soak up the rugged beauty of the West Coast, as we visit every habitat in search of birds, including the glorious seabird colony of Handa Island. It really is time to enjoy High Season ACROSS the Highlands......

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

HIGH SEASON ACROSS THE Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd HIGHLANDS The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge, Inverness-shire PH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248 Fax: 01479 821515 SATURDAY 28 MAY – SATURDAY 4 JUNE 2011 Email: [email protected] Heatherlea Guides: Jonny Pott and Dave Pullan. www.heatherlea.co.uk

Saturday 28 May Arrival by car, train and taxi. Dinner and briefing.

Sunday 29 May We visited a local pool where two Slavonian Grebes had turned up with a supporting cast of Little Grebe, Wigeon, Tufted Duck, Greylag Geese, Mallard, Coot and Redshank. A Wheatear hopped about in front of the pool. Both Ospreys were seen at the Loch Insh eyrie before we had lunch at the Insh Marshes hide.

A Peregrine was found perched by a rock face outside Aviemore. We continued up onto the moor, where Red Grouse had recently hatched young. A pair of Black‐throated Divers were seen, hugging the western shore in the very windy conditions. As we passed some woodland by the loch, a cock Crossbill (probably Common) flew up from the side of the road. We heard a Crossbill family in the wood, but failed to locate them. However, some guests got onto a Treecreeper and a Spotted Flycatcher.

We rounded off the day in woods near Grantown, where a good‐sized flock of Common Crossbills were located and seen well by everyone.

Monday 30 May

We set off early for Handa Island, stopping off at Ullapool. Having arrived at Tarbert opposite Handa in blustery but pleasantly sunny conditions, Dave and five guests got onto the first boat, with Jonny following with the rest in the next. While waiting they found Sedge Warbler, watched a pair of busy Wheatears and fleetingly saw a pair of Twite. Both Great Skua and Arctic Skuas were seen close to the boardwalk to the cliff edge of the island. No terns are attempting to breed this year, with May having been so cold and stormy, and only Arctic Terns in few numbers. A sickly Gannet had been washed up onto the beach. A Great Skua was eating an Auk as we approached.

A pair of Red‐throated Divers were scoped in a bay on the other side of the island. The colony’s seabird numbers of Guillemots, Razorbills, Kittiwakes and Puffins appear to be holding up reasonably well, although not many Puffins were in evidence, but it was windy.

On the way up, Dave’s group had the pleasure of seeing a female Merlin, and on the way down most of us had a good study of a Common Lizard sunning itself on the board walk. Black Guillemot were seen well on the way back to Tarbert.

After tea and cake back on the mainland, we headed south through the NW Highlands, the scenery looking at its best. We stayed overnight on the west coast, and some of us went for an evening walk. John and Jonny were privileged to watch an Otter working along the shorem fro the river mouth to the point near the ferry terminal.

Tuesday 31 May Our first stop was a gorge, the main targets for the day being Golden Eagle and White‐tailed Eagle. A Redstart was scoped on top of a birch while we waited. Only Ravens and Buzzards were seen. At the head of Little Loch Broom several species were accounted for, including Greenshank, Ringed Plover, Goosander, Red‐breasted Merganser, and a small group of Twite seen in among blooming Thrift.

Opposite Gruinard Island three Great Northern Divers were found in the Sound with more Auks and Shags. While parked above Gruinard Bay, Jenny noticed a large bird wheeling around over the sea towards Gruinard Island. It was a White‐tailed Eagle. We watched for several minutes before it disappeared into the folds of the mountains.

We stopped at Poolewe for lunch and to look for Slow Worms. Jonny opened the door of his bus, and there was a Slow Worm on the verge right beside his door!

After lunch everyone walked onto the bridge over the river and discovered a young Dipper hunting for Caddisfly larvae in the seaweed‐ covered rocks.

Driving up from Gairloch, the road skirts round the side of Loch Bad an Sgalaig. Not a minute out of the buses, Dave spotted a Golden Eagle being mobbed by two small raptors that disappeared behind a ridge.

John M then spotted another Golden Eagle which we followed for the next two or three minutes before it disappeared. Then the original Eagle reappeared, still being mobbed by two Merlins.e Th Eagle was pushed in our direction with the help of the Merlins, it flew low overhead and stayed in view for the next five minutes.

For the rest of the journey home we drank in the scenery of Loch Maree and Slioch, with two pairs of low‐flying Red Kites above the road over the Black Isle.

Wednesday 1 June We drove into our private estate, and on the top section the leading bus startled a dust‐bathing hen Capercaillie. Four or five guests got a fleeting view as she flew, weaving acrobatically through the trees. Soon afterwards we all had excellent views of a Crested Tit.

We then headed to the Black Isle, stopping off at a number of favourite haunts. Fortunately, we had excellent views of a Red Kite as we were leaving the estate, so did not have to look for them on the Black Isle.

In the evening, all but two of the group went to Tulloch to look for Badgers, at first without success. On returning to Jonny’s house, Frank spotted a young boar Badger digging in a field opposite. The Badger then came through the fence and was only feet away from the guests before he became aware of our presence. Wood mice were also seen collecting peanuts, which Jonny had scattered in front of the sett.

Thursday 2 June A former resident of Nethy Bridge has been putting up nest boxes for Tree Sparrows beside his home near the Moray Coast. Over the years the colony has increased phenomenally. This year, only three singing Corn Buntings are in evidence, but everyone had good views of both species on the way to Spey Bay. Both Common and Arctic Terns were seen at Spey Bay and Dave also found a Little Tern. Jeremy found a mixed flock of Dunlin, Sanderling and Ringed Plover. At a quiet loch one Gadwall is still present with lots of Little Grebe. After lunch at Lossiemouth and tea and Burghead we came back inland again to look for Crossbills, not before John M spotted some Common Scoter flying east far out to sea.

Friday 3 June Friday broke bright and sunny and much calmer. It was an ideal day for the mountain. The majority of the group opted to walk at least part of the way. On the way up the ridge to the high montane meadow, two cock Ptarmigan were located close to the path. Once on the meadow it wasn’t long before we heard Dotterel calling. They took some locating through the scopes, having done so we were able to get a lot closer to study their striking plumage. We had lunch overlooking the Lairig Ghru Pass with the surrounding mountain grandeur. We set off down the ridge, catching sight of a female Wheatear and another brief sighting of a Dotterel.

Summary The wind was a factor to work around. Our two days over on the west could not have been bettered. The week was rounded off so well with an excellent mountain day. Individual Highlights

Margaret: Crossbill, Crestie, fell in love with Tree Sparrows.

Jeremy: Handa for Skuas, not having been so close before. Help with Arctic Tern ID.

John: Watching Merlins mobbing the Golden Eagle. Watching Otter on Loch Broom.

Sam: The Ptarmigan with four chicks; general atmosphere of group.

Jenny: Crested Tit was fantastic. Jonny’s history and the Chinese Handkerchief tree.

Peter: Going over to Handa for Skuas. 13 or 14 lifers. The mountain and the guides and the birdsong.

Elizabeth: Golden Eagle seen so well; Ptarmigan and Skuas.

Frank: Golden Eagle again. First time seen in UK. Also Crestie.

Ted: Handa, the mountains and a live Badger, also Goldie and Crestie.

Polly: Handa, Skuas, Badger and the mountain day – Ptarmigan.

Fern: Diving Gannet, really close Buzzard and Badger.

Janet: Great Skuas bathing and flying. Skylark having a dustbath.

Amy: Crested Tit, Handa scenery and Badger.

Jane: Crestie, Badger and mountain day – getting to the top!

John: Getting here at all! Golden Eagle flying overhead, and the food.

Dave: Golden Eagle coming straight overhead mobbed by Merlin.

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd HIGH SEASON ACROSS THE The Mountview Hotel, Nethybridge, Inverness-shire PH25 3EB HIGHLANDS Tel: 01479 821248 Fax: 01479 821515 Email: [email protected] 4 – 11 JUNE 2011 www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guides: Jonny Pott and John Poyner

Summary of week:

Saturday 4 June: Arrival, welcome, dinner and briefing.

Sunday 5 June: Today’s highlights included a Crestie feeding young in Abernethy Forest, Redstarts at estate viewpoint, Tree Pipit on line at Abernethy and Black‐throated Divers.

Monday 6 June: Handa Island. Very close Arctic and Great Skuas soaring all around us. Puffins on the stack with thousands of Auks. On the way back we got close views of a Great Northern Diver from the boat, and also Black Guillemots.

Tuesday 7 June: After much waiting we finally spot two magnificent White‐tailed Eagles soaring over Gruinard Bay. Also saw a pair of Black‐throated Divers. Rain stopped play as far as finding the Golden Eagles was concerned, so we headed back and enjoyed a stop for Kites on the way home.

Wednesday 8 June: Searched for Eagles all morning at Strathdearn. Patience paid off with an adult White‐tailed Eagle circling with an immature Golden Eagle. Dipper sitting under riverbank tree also a highlight. All of us got on to several Ring Ouzels, and Mountain and Brown Hare too. In the afternoon we visited Loch Ruthven for Slavonian Grebes, then an unsuccessful search for Capercaillie.

Thursday 9 June: Half the group headed up the mountain and got Ptarmigan and Dotterel. The others managed to get the birds in flight from the carpark. Other highlights were a Peregrine on the cliffs. Everyone got Wood Warbler and Garden Warbler. In the evening Kevin took the group to see Pine Martens, and we watched a mother and three kits in the rain. Good views of Yellowhammer too!

Friday 10 June: After a search for Black Grouse we head to the coast. Highlights were seeing Common and Arctic Tern at Spey Bay. We managed to find a small flock of Common Scoters on the sea from Burghead.

Individual Highlights

Stephen: Kevin’s outing in the rain to see Pine Martens. Circling the Great Northern Diver on the Handa boat.

Tony: Hearing the drumming Snipe on Handa, a sound which spoke out.

Hilary: The family of Red Grouse with stunning plumage.

John: Seeing the Parrot Crossbill. I willt leave a bi more heavy thanks to the food!

Len: Six lifers. Red and Black‐throated Divers in full breeding plumage.

Diane: Seeing Red Squirrels from the bedroom, and the Pine Marten family.

Chas: I thought it would be a bird, but the Pine Martens were special.

Tim: Three lifers and the two Skuas and Dotterel.

Dave: Several lifers – squabbling Skuas, Ptarmigan and Dotterel and the effort to get them with close views.

Ann: Pine Martens because first time, and seeing Crested Tit really well. Thanks to guides.

Mary: Been a great group. Cheery comments. Each time I’ve been it is never the same. Seeing White‐tailed Eagle so close, also where we had lunch at Strathdearn watching Wheatears arguing over territory.

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd HIGH SEASON ACROSS THE HIGHLANDS The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge, Inverness-shire PH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248 Fax: 01479 821515 Email: [email protected] SATURDAY 11 – SATURDAY 18 JUNE 2011 www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guides: Jonny Pott, Dave Pullan.

Saturday 11 June: Arrival, welcome, dinner and briefing.

Sunday 12 June: We started off with a foray into the Abernethy pine forest at Tore Hill. A family party of Crested Tits gave themselves away on call but as usual with woodland passerines they were flitting about in the higher branches and not that easy to get onto. A male Redstart was also seen.

Out in the open hills lining the Findhorn Valley we saw an immature Golden Eagle in Strathdearn, at one stage mobbed by a Kestrel. We also saw an Osprey efollowing th river here. Along the moorland edges we travelled northwards and stopped for a pair of Red Grouse with 4 large chicks. At Loch Ruthven where we had lunch, there were at least 5 Slavonian Grebes, and a Grasshopper Warbler was heard reeling. We watched two Black‐throated Divers and more Red Grouse. The final stop of the day was at Broomhill Bridge, looking out over the River Spey and the many Sand Martins.

Monday 13 June: A rainy day, all day long. We drove over to the west coast and the first bird of note was a Red‐throated Diver near Scourie. From Tarbet we took the boat across to Handa Island. The first group across saw an immature Great Northern Diver, which instead of diving let the boatman circumnavigate it so everyone could get a view. Black Guillemots and some of the commoner seabirds were also seen.

The rain didn’t let up but we walked across the island anyway, as far as the Great Stack. Arctic Terns, Ringed Plovers and Dunlin were around the landing beach. Great Skuas and Arctic Skuas were seen from the walkway, often at close‐range. Fulmars, Kittiwakes, Guillemots, Razorbills and Puffins were all on the cliffs and the stacks. Overnight on the west.

Tuesday 14 June: Dry! Thankfully the rain had moved through. Following the coastline southwards we called at Dundonnell where there were 3 Greenshank, while at Gruinard Bay there were at least 2 Great Northern Divers (1 in breeding plumage) and 2 Red‐throated Divers. After a lot of scanning we managed to pick up an adult White‐tailed Eagle in flight, though quite distant.

Poolewe for lunch, and several Slow‐worms were found. Then back inland via Gairloch, Loch Maree and Kinlochewe. Red‐breasted Mergansers and Redpolls.

Wednesday 15 June: We split into two groups. Dave took some guests up the mountain. Despite the low cloud, not only were Ptarmigan and Dotterel located, Snow gBuntin and Golden Plover were also seen.

Jonny took the non‐mountain group to look for Wood Warblers. We were very fortunate to locate two fledglings being fed by a parent at the top of a tree. Then on to Loch Insh to see nesting Ospreys. A Blackcap was seen and a Garden Warbler was heard at the car park. At lunchtime at the Allt Mor car park, Crested Tit was seen well by everyone. We rounded off the day looking for Ptarmigan and Ring Ouzel from the Coire Cas car park and along a short walk up to the Middle Station of the funicular. Neither species was seen. We met up with Dave’s group returning from their successful trip.

Thursday 16 June: Moray Coast coastal day today, starting off at Kingston‐on‐Spey looking for a Little Stint, which was not seen, but there was a small flock of Knot. We returned via Dava Moor to look for Crossbills. On the way to a site, Dave noticed some Crossbills fly up from the side of the road, and a large flock of Common Crossbills, mostly fledglings, were discovered in Larches growing beside the road. Everyone saw them really well, including cocks of various ages.

Friday 17 June: To the private estate to look for Capercaillie, but none was found. Along Carr Road, a pair of Whinchats were seen, obviously feeding young, with insects in their beaks. At Loch Garten, a young Otter showed well for a prolonged period. Wigeon with two ducklings and a Goldeneye with five were seen close to the shore, and a Peregrine was located outside Aviemore.

Individual highlights

Charles: Ptarmigan posing so well and spreading out its wings. Goldeneye with ducklings, and Whinchats.

Marion: Crested Tits and Crossbills and all three Divers.

Teresa: Handa with all the birds, the weather and riding on the iron horse to the island was fantastic. The surprise of the Loch Insh Ospreys.

Wendy: Dolphins leaping out of the water.

Carol: Black‐throated Diver particularly, and best view ever of Crossbills and the dolphins.

Dave: The ones I suffered for – Dotterel, Ptarmigan and Snow Bunting! Also Crestie and male Crossbills.

Andrew: Divers in summer plumage with lovely views, especially at Aultbea. Stonking Whinchats, Handa boat trip and close birds.

Barbara: Dotterel at the top of the list. Delight of Ptarmigan and Snow Bunting and unexpected Golden Plover.

Glynis: One bird in particular was the Crossbills seen so well, also the Brown Hare springing up, and the scenery.

Toni: So astonished I managed to see Dotterel. Amazing first view of the flying Osprey, and Yellowhammer.

Radha: Ospreys, Red Squirrel, Brown Hare and dolphins.

Michael: Divers when going over to Handa, close Osprey nest.

Katherine: The Great Northern Diver, especially after reading Arthur Ransome, and Spey Bay.

Helen: Divers, Whinchats and I did like the Goldeneye. Also the ride to Handa and the Dunlin there. Lucky with the weather.

Lynette: Whinchats, Great Skua, Tree Sparrow, Yellowhammer and Crossbills.

Your gateway to Scottish birds and wildlife!

During the last twenty‐one years we have led more than 700 full week birding and wildlife watching holidays here in the Scottish Highlands. That means over 4000 days of dedicated guiding, showing wonderful wildlife to a total of over forty thousand guests! With this wealth of experience, and holidays running continuously from February until late November, it isn’t surprising we know the wildlife of Scotland extremely well. Our expert guides judge weather and season to give you the best possible wildlife sightings, and our thanks go to all those who have joined our holidays to date. We hope to enjoy many more fantastic experiences with you in the future. This Report gives just a flavour of our holidays. Not every sighting is included, only highlights, and all reports have been edited to protect wildlife locations. Please read as a general guide given to help you decide whether our holidays might be suitable......

June 2011 Highlands and Orkney – notes from our guides!

As the Scottish summer gets into full swing, we take you to Orkney, a wonderful birding destination at this time. Some of the special birds which breed on Mainland Orkney include Hen Harrier, Short‐eared Owl and Black‐tailed Godwit. With auks, skuas, terns and gulls too, our three‐day journey north is full of excitement. We also search the Caledonian pinewoods and rugged glens to find the special birds everyone wants to see......

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

HIGHLANDS AND ORKNEY Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge 18 – 25 June 2011 Inverness‐shire PH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248 Fax: 01479 821515 Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guides: Dave Pullan, Jozef Leestmans.

Sunday 19 June A good start to the week with plenty of raptors along Strathdearn in the Findhorn Valley. Not only an immature Golden Eagle but an immature White-tailed Eagle too. It wasn’t long before we’d seen 7 species of birds of prey; Peregrine and Osprey as well as Sparrowhawk, Kestrel and Buzzard.

Red Grouse along the Farr Road, and 2 more raptors in the form of Red Kite and Merlin taking us to an impressive 9 species in about 3 hours.

Two more classic highland birds during the rest of the day with at least 7 Slavonian Grebes at Loch Ruthven and 3 Black-throated Divers at our favourite place!

Monday 20 June The first day of our great northern adventure. A few people saw distant Little Tern at Dornoch when we stopped for a break, and there were Eiders and Red- throated Diver at nearby Embo. Some of the Common Seals at Loch Fleet had pups with them.

By lunchtime we were on the north coast of Caithness, looking out from Castlehill. An Otter showed very well and our first Puffins were spotted. Great Northern Diver was good for the time of year while more typical local birds included Rock Dove and both Skuas; Great and Arctic.

From Dunnet Head, the most northerly point on mainland Britain, we could see across to Orkney and just about make out the Old Man of Hoy. On the seabird cliffs were Kittiwakes, Guillemots, Razorbills, and just a few Puffins. Great Skuas and Arctic Skuas cruised along the clifftops. Rock Pipit and Twite were also seen.

Overnight in Thurso.

Tuesday 21 June While waiting for the ferry at Gills Bay we found Black Guillemot, Whimbrel and Grey Seals. The crossing itself was good with a couple of Storm Petrels and plenty of the commoner seabirds including Arctic Terns, Puffins, Great Skuas and Arctic Skuas. Two Porpoises were seen as well.

Our Orkney adventure began on South Ronaldsay with shortbread at Windwick, and a singing Sedge Warbler. After crossing the Churchill Barriers to Orkney Mainland we soon saw our first Hen Harrier, a male just south of Kirkwall. A few miles further on we stopped for a female, and in the Birsay Moors area we saw another male and another female. A total of 5 Hen Harriers were seen during the day. We had lunch overlooking the Loons RSPB reserve and were treated with nice views of a summer- plumage Black-tailed Godwit.

After calling in at the Ring of Brodgar we made our way back to St Margaret’s Hope for the return ferry to Caithness. Fewer seabirds this time but lots of Grey Seals hauled out on the island of Stroma.

Second night Thurso.

Wednesay 22 June

A look for Little Terns at Castlehill drew a blank, just lots of Arctic Terns. The next stop was John O’Groats and then the far more impressive Duncansby Head with the Stacks of Duncansby. We had a clifftop walk here, checking out the nesting seabirds. Lots of Fulmars at close range, Kittiwakes with chicks, Shags, Guillemots, Razorbills and a few Puffins. Great Skuas and Arctic Skuas, as well as Rock Pipit.

We had lunch by the river at Wick, feeding the gulls and then began the long drive back to Nethy. A leg-stretch and a coffee at Brora but all the terns here were distant.

Thursday 23 June Searching for Crossbills near Grantown was interrupted by news of a singing Common Rosefinch in Nethy Bridge. Great views were had of this rare visitor, a red male, which even perched on the tennis court fence.

Capercaillie were also seen today, a male and a female on our tour of the private estate forestry tracks.

Friday 24 June Tree Sparrows and Corn Bunting on the road to Spey Bay. Quite a few Yellowhammers too, including a very photogenic singing bird by the carpark. An Osprey fishing was good to watch but a Little Ringed Plover was distant and spent most of its time hiding. Ringed Plover and Dunlin, and a flock of Goosanders were all seen here.

We made our way along the coast via Lossiemouth and Burghead, and then back inland to search for Crossbills near Grantown.

Saturday 25 June Breakfast and departure. Thank you!

Individual Highlights

Pat: Hen Harrier and Capercaillie.

Keith: Rosefinch, Otter, Caithness coastline.

David Hughes: Otter, Hen Harrier, Puffins.

Bob: Black-throated Divers calling.

David Williams: Duncansby Head, close seabirds.

Carol: Seabirds from ferry. Orkney.

Nigel: Dunnet Head.

Wendy: Hen Harrier, Otter.

Helen: Otter, Rosefinch.

Andy: Osprey fishing at Spey Bay, Jackdaw tapping on hotel window.

Derek: Divers in breeding plumage, Skuas at Dunnet Head, 9 raptors in a day.

Julie: Merlins, Great Northern Diver in breeding plumage, being first to spot Storm Petrel, Black-tailed Godwit and Red-breasted Merganser in breeding plumage.

Heather: Capercaillie.

Steve: Divers in breeding plumage, 9 raptors in one day, Orkney Hen Harriers.

Dave Bookless: Otter, Storm Petrel, Capercaillie.

John: Hen Harrier, great week for raptors, Rosefinch.

Trip Summary and Photos: Dave Pullan.

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

Highlands and Orkney

25 June – 2 July 2011

Heatherlea Guide: Dave Pullan

Sunday 26 June A local day began in Nethy Bridge itself with a singing red male Common Rosefinch near the bowling green – a rare bird in this plumage and at this time of year anywhere in Britain.

The threat of rain made us visit Loch Ruthven in the morning, where we could take shelter in the hide. A male Reed Bunting sang from the top of one of the willows and on the loch there were several Slavonian Grebes, including one adult feeding a single chick and a pair of adults feeding 2 chicks.

As we left the reserve we saw 2 Sika Deer at close range and a new emergence of Small Pearl‐bordered Fritillaries. Taking the Farr Road we saw Roe Deer and 3 family groups of Red Grouse.

Our third deer species of the day was Red Deer in the Findhorn Valley. Raptors were few and far between but we managed to find an Osprey. Finally we drove round by Lochindorb and watched a pair of Black‐throated Divers. Great views in great light.

Monday 27 June We broke our journey north to Caithness with a stop and a walk at Dornoch. Lots of flowers such as Ragged Robin and Kidney Vetch, and a few Small Blue butterflies. Ringed Plovers and Dunlin on the beach, Sandwich Terns and Little Terns carrying small fish. A coffee‐break near Loch Fleet coincided with another flying Osprey.

Lunch at Latheronwheel; brief views of some Manx Shearwaters flying swiftly north, and better views of Dipper and Grey Wagtail nearby.

By mid‐afternoon we were at Dunnet Head, the British mainland’s most northerly point, and spent time exploring the clifftops. Great and Arctic Skuas, as well as Puffins, Guillemots and Razorbills were all seen, as well as Twite on the wire and views of Orkney across the water.

Tuesday 28 June After spending our first night in Thurso we drove to Gills Bay to catch the ferry across the Pentland Firth. Amongst the Seals were 2 female Commons with young pups. Black Guillemots started appearing, along with a Sandwich Tern. On the crossing a Storm‐ Petrel was seen besides Fulmars, Gannets, Kittiwakes, Puffins, Guillemots and Razorbills.

It was a wonderful blue sky sunny day by the time we arrived at St Margaret’s Hope. A Little Tern flew close to the mini‐bus near one of the Churchill Barriers. Our main destination was northwest mainland. A Short‐eared Owl at Birsay Moors, and no less than 3 Hen Harriers on nearby backroads: 2 females and a male. The male was in view for a long time and came exceptionally close. At The Loons, where we had lunch, there was a pair of Black‐tailed Godwits amongst the commoner waders and wildfowl.

An adult Whooper Swan was a bonus on a roadside loch. Then a look around the stone circle at Ring Of Brodgar before heading back to the ferry via Graemeshall.

Wednesday 29 June After breakfast we left Thurso and called in at Castlehill to look out over the bay. From there we headed to John O’ Groats and then on to Duncansby Head. A clifftop walk brought us close to Fulmars, Guillemots, Razorbills, Puffins and Kittiwakes, Arctic Skuas and Great Skuas too, and a family of Rock Pipits.

Driving south we found ourselves in the middle of a very heavy rain shower and pulled in at Lybster harbour for lunch. Continuing our journey back to Nethy Bridge we stopped for a break at Loch Fleet and viewed Common Seals with their noisy pups.

Thursday 30 June A tour of forestry tracks on a private estate at the start of the morning proved fruitful. First of all with a group of Crested Tits that came so close that they were almost knocking on the window. Then 2 male Capercaillie, our target species, strolled through the undergrowth and out across the open track. More sightings of Crested Tits followed and then we drove over to Grantown in search of Crossbills. Despite the rain we tracked down a flock of over 50 and were able to watch them feeding on cones; many of them were streaky juveniles but we also got good views of some red adult males. A quick look at some plants special to the pine forests, Twinflower and Creeping Ladies Tresses, and then lunch by the River Spey.

In the afternoon a second visit to Strathdearn and the Findhorn Valley again failed to produce the hoped for Eagles, but we did manage to see a male Ring Ouzel with a fledged juvenile. A short walk further up the glen was rewarded with 2 fledged juvenile Peregrines chasing each other in flight and perching on the big boulders.

Friday 1 July A day on the Moray Firth coast. First stop Tree Sparrows at their nestbox colony near Bogmoor, quickly followed by a very obliging Corn Bunting on a telegraph pole just down the road. From the Tugnet side of Spey Bay, where the River Spey enters the sea, we could see a flock of Goosanders as well as Common and Arctic Terns.

Lots of Little Grebes at Loch Oire, and that all‐important Moorhen sighting. Lunch at the Lossie estuary, Lossiemouth. 3 Linnets and 1 Osprey but not much in the way of waders.

Next stop Burghead. Fairly quiet at close range but a distant seabird feeding‐flock needed more attention so we went to the top of the headland to gain some height for long‐distance ‘scoping. Sure enough amongst the hundreds of gulls, presumably feeding on sandeels or other small fish, were at least 5 Minke Whales. Sandeels and lots of jellyfish in the harbour and more whale‐watching as the outgoing tide brought the Minkes just a little bit closer.

Saturday 2 July Breakfast and departure. Thank you!

Individual Highlights:

Bill: Male Hen Harrier; Crested Tits; Capercaillie; Rosefinch.

Pam: Orkney day; Hen Harrier; Short‐eared Owl; Black‐throated Diver.

Neil: Orkney day; Capercaillie success; Minke Whale.

John: Orkney and the whole group experience; Rosefinch; Male Hen Harrier.

Victor: Orkney wild flowers; Crested Tits; Capercaillie.

Trip report and photos: Dave Pullan.

Your gateway to Scottish birds and wildlife!

JULY 2011

Natural History of Northern Scotland – as it happened!

An absorbing celebration of wildlife covering the birds, mammals, insects and plants of this fantastic area. Aimed at the natural history all‐rounder at a relaxed pace, our itinerary is designed to be a leisurely and thoroughly enjoyable exploration. Stretching from the alpines, Ptarmigan and Dotterel of Cairngorm to the summer plants and birdlife of the Moray Coast, this is a celebration of all the wildlife of the Cairngorms National Park and beyond. We also visit key sites in Perthshire and the west of Scotland to see sought‐after dragonflies, butterflies and flora......

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd Natural History of Northern Scotland The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge Inverness‐shire PH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248 Fax: 01479 821515 25 June – 2 July 2011 Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guide: Jonny Pott

Summary We were very privileged this week to have guests who were very knowledgeable on moths, grasses, flora, ferns and fungi. There were further requests for species that were not on our list, which we made some progress with. We identified in the region of seventy moth species, and Jean Oliver was digging out minute and intricate fungi, which could have been so easily overlooked, AND she also put names to them! And as can be imagined, it was a challenge for the guide to keep to schedule, as yet another species of interest was brought to the attention of the group. The list for dragonflies and butterflies, it has to be said, was poor, probably because of an exceptionally cold May/June and a lack of sunshine. But the many other species more than compensated.

Sunday – Moth trap – Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge. Common Rosefinch by the Nethy Community Hall uncharacteristically meant a Natural History week started with a twitch! Up to Forest Lodge to look for ‘Cresty’, which was seen fleetingly, but better by some on a local hill, where we went to see Twinflower and Serrated Wintergreen. An excellent display of vanilla‐scented Fragrant Orchids on Kincardine Moor, then onto Flowerfield for Lesser Butterfly Orchid, and Small White Orchid overlooking the Cairngorms. Rounded off the day with Wood Warbler and Osprey at Loch Insh. A busy family of unidentified large Crossbills flew into pines when we were there.

Monday – Moth trap – Tulloch private location. Nationally scarce Saxon moth was caught. Three of the group then walked up the mountain to see two hen Ptarmigan and one hen Dotterel, as well as a Dunlin. Studied both flora and fungi on the way, plus close views of a Mountain Hare leveret. Whilst having tea by Loch Morlich we had really close views of a pair of Red‐ throated Divers. Also Goosander with young.

Tuesday – Moth trap ‐ Nethy Bridge private location. Phenomenal catch of six Poplar Hawkmoths, which Kevin later showed to 70 spellbound Abernethy Primary School children before releasing them. Northern Brown Argus seen and photographed among Rock Rose, Northern Marsh Orchids and quite a few fungi for Jean to get her ‘teeth’ into. Had lunch by a loch with a close fishing Osprey. Also newly fledged Willow Warblers and Redstarts in junipers, and much to our surprise, a Wood Warbler. Black‐throated Divers were found at the south end of the loch. Caught a Northern Damselfly, so we could study more closely for ID. Whilst looking for White‐ faced Darter, everybody got good views of ‘Cresty’.

Wednesday – Moth trap – Grantown‐on‐Spey, private location. Barbara found a brood of Black Grouse with the hen, whilst looking for Caper in our estate. Also a very close view of a male Goshawk being seen off by a Buzzard. Whilst looking for eagles up Strathdearn, Jonny heard a Long‐eared Owlet calling in a conifer plantation. While investigating he flushed the adult bird. Peregrines were nesting further up stream. Found Butterwort and Starry Saxifrage in roadside ditch. Had an explore for more ferns along the side of the strath. On the way back we all got excellent views of a hen Ring Ouzel collecting worms and feeding a fledgling.

Thursday – Moth trap –Tulloch, second private location. Key moths of interest were a possible Sharp ‐angled Peacock, which is a moth that appears to be getting around, and a Silvery Arches.

We went to the Moray coast for Coralroot. On the way we saw stunning Sheep’s Bit blooms. Barry was blessed with close views of Bottle‐nosed Dolphins, while the rest of us were away looking at Oysterplants and Scots Lovage. Final stop was to see Single‐flowered Wintergreen.

Friday – Moth trap – Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge. Despite having the moth trap out every night, a further five new species were accounted for.

We headed off to Highland Perthshire for our final day. Our main target for the day was Mountain Ringlet. None were seen. However, one of the group (Bob?) consoled us by finding the nationally scarce Argent and Sable moth, and later on Small Argent and Sable. Bob caught sight of a ringtail Hen Harrier (female), which some of the group got onto. John was delighted we found Golden Rod along the side of the burn, as well as Lungwort growing on a Goat‐eared Willow.

After lunch we enjoyed studying the Greater Butterfly Orchids, both Common and Heath‐spotted Orchids and Bird’s Nest Orchids in the meadows. Other key plants were Globeflower, Small Cow Wheat and Crosswort found by Ann.

Guests’ Highlights

Charles – Alpine Meadow at Keltney Burn with orchids. Enjoyed seeing Oysterplant on the Moray Coast day, the Twinflower AND the Rosefinch.

Barry – Two special highlights were the Black‐throated Divers and I always enjoy Strathdearn with the River Findhorn and its special atmosphere. And Jean’s squeals of delight seeing a ‘Slippery Jack’! (Suillus luteus)

Therese ‐ The variety of moths was like going into a treasure trove every morning, and the gardens we went to for moth trapping.

Jean – The moths were amazing. The eyelash fungus and where it was surviving. The Adder and family of Lizards. My first sighting of Twite!

Brenda – The really close encounter with fishing Osprey and the Keltney Burn flowerfield.

John – Most memorable highlight was the Ring Ouzel, which I have spent so much time looking for. Enjoyed the whole holiday.

Barbara – Thrilled to see the One‐flowered Wintergreen in this country. The Argent and Sable today. The mountain day looking back at the stunning cloudy scenery and finding the Dotterel at the top.

Bob – Enjoyed the mountain finding the Black Mountain Moth, Lochindorb and moth trapping at the Gate House, Tulloch with Silvery Arches, Antler and Argent and Sable.

Ann – Today was really special at Keltney Burn. I could have spent all day there exploring and finding more ferns and flowers. Strathdearn and seeing ‘Cresty’!

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

NATURAL HISTORY OF NORTHERN Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge SCOTLAND Inverness‐shire PH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248 Fax: 01479 821515 Email: [email protected] Saturday 2 – Saturday 9 July 2011 www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guides: Ian Ford, Jonny Pott.

Saturday 2 July Arrival, welcome, dinner and briefing.

Sunday 3 July After emptying the moth trap and finding many species, we took advantage of the sunshine to find butterflies and dragonflies, seeing Northern Damsels then Northern Brown Argus, Large Heaths and Small Pearl Bordered Fritillaries. A family of Crested Tits, 2 Ospreys and a stunning pair of Black‐throated Divers kept the birders well pleased. Amongst the many flowers we saw were Northern Marsh and Heath Spotted Orchids, Bearberry, Northern Bedstraw and Imperforate St John’s Wort. We ended the day with more dragons including 4 Spot Chasers and emerging Common Hawkers before a final cup of tea overlooking an Osprey nest.

Monday 4 July More sunshine was promised as we checked the moth trap at the hotel. Poplar Kitten was a very scarce surprise.

A brief layby stop in the cloudy hills gave us distant views of a Golden Eagle on the way to our roadside Mountain Ringlet site. A few of these elusive butterflies were flying and there were more Large Heaths with Common Crossbills overhead.

We went to a splendid reserve with orchid meadows full of Lesser Butterfly, Common Spotted and Heath Spotted with a few Common Twayblades and Bird’s Nest Orchids lurking in the woods. Globe Flower and Small Cow Wheat were other rare plants today. A male Hen Harrier was a highlight on the way home.

Tuesday 5 July A massive haul of hundreds of moths was in the trap in the forest, adding to our list. As the wind increased we set off up the Cairngorms and the group split, with seven going high enough to find Ptarmigan and Dotterel, a treasure trove of mountain plants and Black Mountain Moth. The others saw Twite and Ring Ouzel and we all enjoyed the miniature Lesser Twayblade. Lower down we all watched a perched Peregrine before a final flower flurry, with Small White Orchid, Intermediate Wintergreen and Petty Whin being seen.

Wednesday 6 July The moth trap revealed some new species. Rain was forecast and that’s what we got, but it did make a Mole cross the road and for many this was the first sighting as we helped it reach safety.

A visit to our exclusive estate produced some excellent views of 3 male Capercaillies as they walked down the hill and across the road. A damp walk in Strathdearn got everyone wet but the reward for many was a close immature Golden Eagle and for others a Mountain Hare. Starry Saxifrage, Fragrant Orchids and Common Butterwort were wne plants.

Thursday 7 July With poor weather inland we went to the Moray coast where it was sunny most of the day. Wonderful flowers included Coralroot Orchid, Sheep’s bit and Birdsfoot, while on the sea we saw 4 Red‐throated Divers, 2 Arctic Skuas, a Great Skua and many Gannets.

The next stop let us enjoy Scots Lovage galore and stunning Oysterplants and then we went on to Culbin Forest for One‐Flowered Wintergreen, Serrated Wintergreen and Creeping Ladies’ Tresses Orchids. Dingy Skipper was a great find and an immature male Southern Hawker clung onto a pathside tree.

Lots of Marsh Clubmoss plants were new for everyone and a Crested Tit was with a flock of other tits.

Friday 8 July A partly sunny morning finally allowed us views of White‐faced Darter and flowers included Lesser Butterfly Orchid. One guest flushed 3 female Black Grouse, which was a great bonus. A trip to a patch of beautiful Twinflower let us catch up with colourful Common Crossbills feeding in Larches. In the afternoon, on the Black Isle, we found Red Kites and saw an Osprey catch a fish. Distant jumping Dolphins rounded off an excellent week.

Saturday 9 July Breakfast and departure. Thank you!

Individual Highlights

Sheila: Enjoyed the mountain despite the wind, and photographing Ptarmigan.

Norman: Red Deer really special.

Chris: Writes a ditty, see below!

Michelle: Beautiful Red Kite.

Cath: Enjoyed the week … highlight was the Butterfly Orchid.

Gerry: Dotterel I have tried so hard to find, also female Black Grouse, Large Heath and Dingy Skipper.

Marilyn: Really enjoyed the group and all the interests. So many orchids, Capercaillie.

Dave: Have not seen Golden Eagle, Ptarmigan and Crested Tit for many years. Great to get into other wildlife disciplines.

Norah: Wonderful to see Red‐throated Diver and Yellowhammer. So many yellows!

Sue: Moths have opened up a whole new world. Twinflower, Mountain Hare, Black‐ throated Diver and many firsts.

John: Inspirational guiding. Very difficult to pick out any highlight but Crossbills and the Osprey fishing. Keltley Burn and the white‐faced Darters.

Tony: Millions of moths, butterflies and insects and some birds. But the bipeds more special.

Ruth: Going up Cairn Gorm seeing Dotterel and Ptarmigan, then looking for nMountai Ringlets.

Ian: Wonderful diversity of the area. All the knowledge and skill of the group.

The Heatherlea Rap

Tree Pipit calling – seems quite clear Another week at good old Heatherlea Beep Beep Beep – No that’s Orange I With shortbread in the morning, cake for hear tea In and out of the bus dodging all the rain There’s a Hawker or a Chaser or a Then coats all off ‘cos the sun’s out again. Common Card But Oh so elusive is the White‐faced Darter Watch out moths the gang’s all here ‘Quick Ian bring the net you’re getting With their cameras, nets and jars you very near’ need have fear Oh dear, splish splash – a step too far I Little did you know when you were drawn fear to the light That daytime would bring such a dreadful We’re looking for an orchid – ‘Are you fright. there Jonny?’ It’s a Greater, no it’s Lesser but it sure looks Emeralds, Tussocks, Spectacles all set free bonnie Then all aboard, down the road for birds ‘I’m sorry you’re breaking up’ and there’s and bees an Eagle overhead’ Capers, Cresties, Divers and Goldies ‘What was that – an Albatross – is that Are all of interest to this gang of oldies. what you said?’

‘I’m going slowly Ian till you catch me up And now thanks to Ian and Jonny, we are Cos although I’ve got the coffee you’ve nearly there got all the cups’ What’s your pick – Ringlet, Orchid or Hare Oh what’s that – Fragrant Orchids in a Green Arches, Diver, Mottled Beauty or bunch Grey Hen? By the time we’re finished it’s time for They’re all fantastic – that’s all – amen. lunch. Christine HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

NATURAL HISTORY OF

NORTHERN SCOTLAND Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge Inverness‐shire PH25 3EB Saturday 9 – Saturday 16 July 2011 Tel: 01479 821248 Fax: 01479 821515 Email: [email protected] Heatherlea Guides: John Poyner, Dave Pullan www.heatherlea.co.uk

Saturday 9 July Arrival, welcome, dinner and briefing.

Sunday 10 July Head to Moray Firth due to heavy rain inland. Walk shore at Burghead where we found Oysterplant. Scan from viewpoint for seabirds. We go to Roseisle for lunch then to Culbin Forest for One‐flowered Wintergreen. Attempt for Black‐throated Divers on way back but torrential rain hampers our searches.

Mon 11 July First stop to see Twinflower near Grantown. Then a visit to Orchid meadow for Lesser Butterfly Orchid.

We head to Strathdearn where we get great views of an immature Golden Eagle. Then to Loch Ruthven where we get Slavonian Grebe and the amazing sight of a pair of juvenile Hen Harriers. Drive back to Strath and look at Northern Damselfly in Abernethy Forest.

Tuesday 12 July Mountain day. Lesser Twayblade found with difficulty near car park. Those that made the full walk saw a Ptarmigan hen with chicks and a Dotterel with chicks also.

Wednesday 13 July Head south to Mountain Ringlet site in Perthshire. Lovely sunny day and we find them as soon as we arrive. Spent morning at site watching them as well as Small Pearl Bordered Fritillary, Large and Small Heath also Golden Ringed Dragonfly.

We visited pools to look for White‐faced Darter but not sunny enough. Finished day looking at Northern Brown Argus.

Thursday 14 July After looking at the moth trap we returned to the dragonfly pools. No darters but all got great view of Crestie. Next to find Capercaillie, which we did within five minutes of going in to the estate, a male and female together. Next we went back to pools where we find White‐faced Darter. We spent the rest of the afternoon at various local plant sites looking for Small White Orchid, Serrated Wintergreen and Petty Whin amongst others.

Friday 15 July After looking at moths at Kevin's, we head to Spey Bay. Lots of Common and Arctic Terns and moulting Gooseander. Then a walk to look for Coralroot Orchid. Dolphins seen offshore from Kingston. Came back via Lochindorb, where we find a pair of Black‐ throated Divers.

Saturday 16 July Breakfast and departure. Thank you!

Individual Highlights Malcolm: Hen Harriers and Male Caper, first I’ve seen.

Reg: Capercaillie. Common Lizard.

Lyn: Capercaillie and all the orchids.

Sonia: Lichen encrusted posts and trees and all the moths.

George: Crested Tits. The great view. Oysterplant. The big spider.

Phil: Mountain Ringlet site and Crested Tits.

Joan: Mountain Ringlet site, and Capercaillie.

Doug: Oysterplant. Capercaillie, and Bottle‐nosed Dolphins.

Owen: The Dotterel.

Hilary: The Mountain Ringlet site.

Sue: Ptarmigan.

John: Dotterel.

1 Red‐throated Diver 2 Black‐throated Diver 3 Slavonian Grebe 4 Little Grebe 5 Fulmar Gannet 6 Cormorant 7 Shag 8 Grey Heron

9 Mute Swan 10 Greylag Goose 11 Canada Goose 12 Shelduck 13 Mallard 14 Shoveler 15 Wigeon 16 Teal

17 Tufted Duck 18 Eider 19 King Eider 20 Common Scoter 21 Velvet Scoter 22 Goldeneye 23 Goosander 24 Red‐breasted Merganser 25 White‐tailed Eagle

26 Osprey 27 Golden Eagle 28 Red Kite 29 Hen Harrier 30 Marsh Harrier 31 Buzzard 32 Sparrowhawk 33 Goshawk 34 Kestrel 35 Hobby 36 Peregrine 37 Merlin 38 Red Grouse 39 Ptarmigan 40 Capercaillie 41 Black Grouse 42 Red‐legged Partridge

43 Grey Partridge 44 Pheasant 45 Moorhen 46 Coot 47 Oystercatcher 48 Ringed Plover 49 Dotterel 50 Golden Plover 51 Lapwing 52 Knot 53 Ruff 54 Sanderling 55 Turnstone 56 Dunlin 57 Common Sandpiper

58 Redshank 59 Greenshank 60 Black‐tailed Godwit 61 Bar‐tailed Godwit 62 Curlew 63 Whimbrel 64 Woodcock 65 Snipe 66 Great Skua 67 Arctic Skua 68 Black‐headed Gull 69 Common Gull 70 Herring Gull 71 Lesser Black‐backed Gull 72 Great Black‐backed Gull 73 Kittiwake 74 Glaucous Gull 75 Iceland Gull 76 Little Tern 77 Sandwich Tern 78 Common Tern 79 Arctic Tern 80 Puffin 81 Black Guillemot 82 Guillemot 83 Razorbill

84 Rock Dove (Feral Pigeon) 85 Stock Dove 86 Woodpigeon 87 Collared Dove 88 Cuckoo 89 Tawny Owl 90 Long‐eared Owl 91 Short‐eared Owl 92 Barn Owl 93 Swift 94 Kingfisher 95 Green Woodpecker 96 Great Spotted Woodpecker 97 Skylark 98 Sand Martin 99 Swallow 100 House Martin

101 Rock Pipit 102 Meadow Pipit 103 Tree Pipit 104 Pied Wagtail 105 Grey Wagtail 106 Wren 107 Dipper 108 Dunnock 109 Robin 110 Redstart 111 Black Redstart 112 Wheatear 113 Whinchat 114 Stonechat 115 Song Thrush 116 Mistle Thrush 117 Blackbird 118 Ring Ouzel 119 Garden Warbler

120 Blackcap 121 Whitethroat 122 Sedge Warbler 123 Chiffchaff 124 Willow Warbler 125 Wood Warbler 126 Goldcrest

127 Spotted Flycatcher 128 Great Tit 129 Coal Tit 130 Blue Tit 131 Crested Tit 132 Long‐tailed Tit 133 Treecreeper 134 Jay

135 Magpie 136 Jackdaw 137 Rook 138 Carrion Crow 139 Hooded Crow 140 Raven 141 Starling 142 House Sparrow 143 Tree Sparrow

144 Chaffinch 145 Linnet 146 Twite

147 Lesser

148 Redpoll

149 Goldfinch 150 Greenfinch 151 Siskin 152 Bullfinch 153 Parrot Crossbill 154 Scottish Crossbill 155 Common Crossbill 156 Reed Bunting 157 Snow Bunting 158 Yellowhammer 159 Corn Bunting MAMMALS, REPTILES and AMPHIBIANS Expect around 15 – 20 species, with Bottle‐nosed Dolphin, Red Squirrel and Mountain Hare usually seen most weeks.

Hedgehog Mole Common Shrew

Pygmy Shrew

Water Shrew

Daubenton’s Bat Common Pipistrelle

Long‐eared Bat Fox Pine Marten Stoat Weasel Mink Otter

Scottish Wildcat

Common Seal Grey Seal Bottle‐nosed Dolphin Harbour Porpoise Minke Whale Red Deer Sika Deer Reindeer Roe Deer

Mountain Goat

Red Squirrel

Bank Vole Field Vole Wood Mouse House Mouse Rabbit Brown Hare Mountain Hare Adder Common Lizard Slow Worm Toad Frog

DRAGONFLIES and DAMSELS We usually see about 10 species of northern odonata, and although dragons and damsels can be particularly weather dependent, there are very good chances of White‐faced Darter, Northern Damsel and Golden‐ringed Dragonlfly. Azure Hawker is possible, though elusive!

Emerald Damselfly Large Red Damselfly Northern Damselfly Common Blue Damselfly Blue‐Tailed Damselfly Azure Hawker Common Hawker Southern Hawker Golden‐Ringed Dragonfly Brilliant Emerald Northern Emerald Common Darter Highland Darter Black Darter White‐Faced Darter

Four‐spot Chaser BUTTERFLIES Can also be weather dependent of course, but expect 12 – 18 species, including key rarities Mountain Ringlet, Northern Brown Argus and Large Heath. Scotch Argus are common once hatched, Mid‐July onwards for this species . Large White Small White Green‐Veined White Orange Tip Small Copper Common Blue Small Blue

Northern Brown Argus Dingy Skipper Red Admiral Small Tortoiseshell Peacock Painted Lady Dark Green Fritillary Small Pearl Bordered Fritillary Meadow Brown Ringlet Mountain Ringlet Small Heath

MOTHS We trap moths almost every night on this holiday, and the variety and sheer number of insects captured is often breathtaking. This is a list of moths successfully identified during our 2011 weeks. Sometimes we were able to have a guide go ahead to check the trap before guests arrived, butn eve so we had to release many insects without identification, after all there is a lot of wildlife to see! Total in 2011 was an impressive 98 species.

Small Angle Shades

Tawny‐barred Angle Antler Moth Dark Arches Green Arches Silvery Arches Argent & Sable Small Argent & Sable Barred Red Mottled Beauty Lead Belle Grey Birch Bright‐Line Brown Eye Clouded Brindle Clouded‐bordered Brindle Shaded Broad‐bar Dark Brocade Buff‐tip Six Spot Burnet Burnished Brass Brimstone Moth Dusky Brocade Pale‐shouldered Brocade Dark Brocade Broom Moth Six‐spot Burnet Broken‐barred Carpet Common Carpet Common Marbled Carpet Flame Carpet Green Carpet Grey Pine Carpet Pine Carpet Silver‐ground Carpet Twin‐spot Carpet

Ingrailed Clay Purple Clay Confused Pale Eggar Light Emerald

Large Emerald

Small Fan‐foot Knot Grass Ghost Moth (f) Beautiful Golden Y Poplar Grey Poplar Hawk‐moth Common Heath Scalloped Hook‐tip

Sallow Kitten True Lovers’ Knot Common Lutestring Lychnis Marbled Minor Middle‐barred Minor Miller Black Mountain Moth Sharp‐angled Peacock Peppered Moth Small Phoenix Pretty Pinion Bilberry Pug Edinburgh Pug Foxglove Pug Green Pug Grey Pug Ochreous Pug Coxcomb Prominent Iron Prominent Pebble Prominent Scarce Prominent Lesser Swallow Prominent Grass Rivulet

Small Rivulet Brown Rustic Common Rustic Saxon Flame Shoulder Snout Spectacle Northern Spinach Double Square‐spot Small Square‐spot Chimney Sweeper

Map‐winged Swift

Gold Swift Silver Y Scarce Silver Y Garden Tiger Dark Tussock Large Yellow Underwing Lesser Yellow Underwing Common Wave Common White Wave

Riband Wave

Smoky Wave

Bordered White

OTHER INSECTS Sexton burying Beetle Dor Beetle Violet Ground Beetle Black Ground Beetle Dung Beetle

Heather Beetle

Green Tiger Beetle White‐tailed Bumblebee Buff‐tailed Bumblebee Common Cardha Bee Pine Sawfly larvae

FLORA We see a vast range of flowering and non‐flowering plants, paying particular attention to local and rare species including orchids, wintergreens, Twinflower, Oysterplant, alpines and many more. We also record fungi, grasses, ferns, lichens, mosses and many more. We see far more than we can possibly classify, so here are just the major species of interest, beginning with some key flowering plants of special interest.

Key Flora (selective list)

One‐flowered Wintergreen Intermediate Wintergreen Coralroot Orchid Serrated Wintergreen

Common Wintergreen Chickweed Wintergreen Birdsnest Orchid Common Spotted Orchid Common Twayblade Coralroot Orchid Creeping Ladies` Tresses Orchid Fragrant Orchid Frog Orchid Greater Butterfly Orchid Creeping Ladies’ Tresses Orchid Heath Spotted Orchid Lesser Butterfly Orchid Lesser Twayblade Northern Marsh Orchid Small White Orchid Twinflower Oysterplant Small Cow‐wheat Least Waterlily Scots Lovage Fragrant Orchid Trailing Azalea Bog Asphodel Scottish Asphodel Twinflower Alpine Saw‐wort Highland Cudweed Northern Bedstraw Bearberry Mountain Blaeberry Marsh Marigold ssp radicans

Greater Spearwort Mountain Pansy Marsh Cinquefoil Melancholy Thistle

Alpine Bistort

Amphibious Bistort Terrestrial Bistort Oysterplant Common Butterwort Pale Butterwort Moss Campion Sneezewort Marsh Speedwell Stagshorn Clubmoss Red Rattle Lousewort Catsfoot Field Gentian Globeflower Grass of Parnassus Alpine Lady`s Mantle Water Avens Yellow Saxifrage Marsh Clubmoss Lesser Clubmoss Fir Clubmoss Alpine Clubmoss Stagshorn Clubmoss Interrupted Clubmoss Black Bog‐Rush Branched Bur‐Reed Floating Bur‐Rush Bog Myrtle Least Willow Bog Myrtle Dwarf Cornel Petty Whin Yellow Saxifrage Starry Saxifrage Common Sundew Intermediate Sundew Strap‐leaved Sundew

Internediate Wintergreen

COMMONER SPECIES Lady’s Mantle Bird’s foot Trefoil Black Medick Wood Sorrel Milkwort Sheep’s Sorrel Heath Speedwell Wood Anemone Heath Bedstraw Tormentil Lady’s Bedstraw Bugle Flower Marsh Willow herb Self‐heal Rosebay Willow herb Pearlwort New Zealand Willow herb Chickweed Coltsfoot Mouse Ear Monkey flower (Mimulus) Bitter Vetch Common Sorrel Common Vetch Petty Whin Bush Vetch Blaeberry Tufted Vetch Lesser Stitchwort Kidney Vetch Greater Stitchwort Thyme Herb Bennett Red Fumitory Herb Robert Figwort Meadowsweet Cloudberry Dog Mercury Cowberry Ground Ivy Red Bearberry Raspberry Crowberry Ling Germander Speedwell Bell Heather Hawkweed Cross leaved Heath Marsh Cudweed Lesser Spearwort Cow wheat Eyebright Meadow Buttercup Primrose Lupine Stonecrop Oxeyey Dais Hop Trefoil Northern Marsh Thistle Lousewort Spear Thistle Large Lousewort Melancholy Thistle Yellow Rattle Creeping Thistle Rock Rose White Clover Ragged Robin Red Clover Burdock Hogweed Butterbur Giant Hogweed Green Alkanet Cow Parsley Bugloss Hemlock Foxglove Knotweed Pennywort Forget‐me‐not Goldenrod Dog Violet Lesser Spearwort Aquilegia Fairy flax Dame’s Violet Spurrey Marsh Violet Valerian Imperforate St John’s Wort Harebell Slender St John’s Wort Thyme Wood Cranesbill Mountian Everlasting Crosswort Orange Hawkweed Slender Thistle Northern Hawkweed Alpine Speedwell Arctic Marigold Arctic Cudweed Sheep’s Bit

GRASSES, FUNGI, FERNS and more. We take a keen interest in other flora and fungi too, though our guides are not specialists in every field. This is a list of species positively identified in 2011.

GRASSES Common Cotton Grass Couch Grass Perenial Rye Meadow Foxtail Timothy Grass Crested Dog’s tail Common Bent Tufted Hair Grass Wavey Hair Grass Purple Moor Grass Yorkshire Fog Annual Meadow Grass Rough Meadow Grass Creeping Soft Grass Cocksfoot Canary Reed Grass Marram Grass Mountain Scurvygrass Deer Grass

RUSHES

Soft Rush Boy Rush Heath Rush Common Spike Rush Few‐flowered Spike Rush

SEDGES Greater Wood Rush Glaucous Sedge

Common Sedge Yellow Sedge Star Sedge Pill Sedge

LICHENS Cladonia portentosa Cladonia abuscala

Cladonia uncialis Cladonia sp. (Devil’s matchsticks) Dogwort Lungwort Lungwort growing on heather sp.

MOSSES Ostrich Plume Feather Moss Polytrichum commune

FERNS Scaly Male Fern Mountain Male Fern Lady Fern Flexile Lady Fern Hard Fern Oak Fern Common Bracken Pinewood Bracken Pillwort Maidenhair Spleenwort Field Horsetail Water Horsetail Wood Horsetail Hay‐scented Buckler Fern

Limestone Oak Fern Moonwort Polypody Fern

FUNGI Calocybe carnea Leccinum versipelle Suillus luteus Lycoperdon perlatum Bulbitius titubans Callisbia deryophila Callisbia buteracea Paneolus semiovatus Paneolus sphinctrimus Sropharia semiglobata Puacinia caricina pusstula Fuligo septica – yellow slime mold

Leccinum scabrum Bovista nigricans – Puffball Clorociboria aeruginasceas – Green Woodcup (turquoise – green) Eyelash fungus Triphagmium ulmariae Suillus grevilli Clytocybe gibba

Coprinus niveus Hyrocybe nigricans – Wax cap Amanita rubescens Chanterelle Fomes fomentarius

Some more photos from our files – you might have fun identifying them!

Your gateway to Scottish birds and wildlife!

JULY 2011

Eagles, Divers and Dotterel – notes from our guides!

Where do you go in the ‘quiet’ birding weeks of summer? The best summer birding in Britain awaits you here. We will watch Golden Eagle, White‐tailed Eagle, Peregrine, fishing Osprey, Slavonian Grebe, Red‐ and Black‐throated Divers, Capercaillie, Scottish (Parrot) Crossbill, Crested Tit and lots more including a visit eto th Gannetry at Troup Head. Breeding Ptarmigan and Dotterel guarantee a great day out on the mountains, and we also utilise the late evening light to seek quartering Short‐eared Owl over local heather moorland. Guaranteed excitement and glorious scenery from magnificent mountain‐top to the scenic grandeur of Mull, where we watch for eagles and otters ......

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd EAGLES, DIVERS AND DOTTEREL The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge Inverness‐shire PH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248 Fax: 01479 821515 16 – 23 July 2011 Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guides: Jonny Pott, Dave Pullan.

Saturday 16 July: Arrival, welcome, dinner and briefing.

Sunday 17 July Taking advantage of a break in the weather we followed the swollen River Findhorn along Strathdearn, a tactic that paid off with some great sightings of an immature Golden Eagle. Peregrine was also seen along with Buzzard and Kestrel. Herds of Red Deer grazed the hillsides.

Crossing the Farr Road we found Large Heath butterfly, and had a couple of brief sightings of Merlin. However, trying to reach Loch Ruthven, our original plan for the morning, proved more difficult than expected. The heavy rains had caused severe flooding to some sections of road and a detour was needed via Loch Duntelchaig where we saw Osprey. But eventually we got there, added another raptor to our list in the shape of a Red Kite, and ate our lunch while watching Slavonian Grebes and Little Grebe.

The floods meant taking the long way back to the A9, with views over Loch Ness, but by the time we reached our moorland loch the sun was shining. At least 5 Red Grouse were seen on the moorland, 2 Black-throated Divers and 1 Red- throated Diver on the loch, and 3 fishing Ospreys.

Monday 18 July Westward bound we paused at Laggan Dam through which huge volumes of water were being channelled. At the Corran Ferry, coffee-time coincided with viewing the Black Guillemots. Further round on the Morvern coast 2 Great Northern Divers were very much a bonus for the second half of July. One was in full summer plumage while the other, likely an immature from last year, was in full winter plumage.

By late morning we had taken the Lochaline ferry across to Fishnish, Mull. First stop was Loch na Keal and an adult White-tailed Eagle perched in a tree. Very warm (!), calm and sunny. After lunch, driving round the opposite side of Loch na Keal, we had Golden Eagle, a Merlin, and then another White-tailed Eagle high in the blue sky. Continuing our scenic tour, looking out across to Staffa and the Treshnish Isles, we stopped for a group of Twite feeding in the middle of the road.

Further on an adult White-tailed Eagle with 2 big juveniles were all stood on a crowded nest. Then at Loch Scridain we found our hoped for Otter. More Eagles at Loch Mor, where at least 2 adult (probably 3 or even 4) Golden Eagles put in a magnificent aerial display, closing their wings and diving and quickly covering huge sections of sky. We could even hear them calling.

Overnight on Mull.

Tuesday 19 July A cloudier start to the day but at least it stayed dry. Spending the morning still on Mull we took a run down to Loch Buie via Loch Spelve. A Short-eared Owl on a fencepost and then flying was the highlight but we also saw a Golden Eagle, several Redpolls, some distant Manx Shearwaters and a close juvenile Whinchat. Back on the ‘main road’ (but still single-track) we saw a pair of adult White-tailed Eagles and a ringtail Hen harrier in the air at the same time.

The rain had come on by the time we took the ferry back to the mainland. A Porpoise was seen by a few on the crossing. Lunch by Loch Sunart and then a stop for Greenshank at the head of Loch Sunart.

The Black Guillemots were again seen, but much more of a surprise was a reeling Grasshopper Warbler in full view at the top of a bush.

Then finally back to Nethy Bridge via a coffee-break at Creag Meagaidh.

Wednesday 20 July A largely unlucky morning for most people searching for Capercaillie. First a ‘leader only’ female Caper quickly disappeared and couldn’t be re-located. Then a tour of the private estate forestry tracks produced some Crested Tits but only brief views of anything significantly bigger.

Insh Marshes visitor centre for lunch. Great views of the marshes but few birds! Just 2 or 3 Roe Deer. A stop at the Osprey nest at the other end of Loch Insh was more interesting. An adult Osprey and a fledged juvenile perched on branches above the nest, and 2 more ready-to-fly juveniles on the nest.

Heading back for some more pine forest searching, we stopped to watch a Peregrine circling over the fields. Woods near Grantown were generally quiet but a group of Crested Tits made the walk worthwhile.

Finally, after dinner, a late evening foray resulted in a Short-eared Owl which we watched hunting for quite a while.

Thursday 21 July A day out on the Aberdeenshire coast. Along the way, a young Peregrine sat on a fencepost flew off to join one of its parents, and some persistent searching located a distant Corn Bunting. At our main destination, Troup Head, we walked along the clifftop and enjoyed the seabird breeding colony. Thousands of Gannets, some with big chicks. Smaller numbers of Kittiwakes, but again some with big chicks. Guillemots, Razorbills and just a handful of Puffins were also seen. And one or two Great Skuas.

Much closer views of Corn Bunting were had on the way back. A coffee and cake break at Cullen hadn’t reckoned for loud funfair music but we managed a few Eiders before moving on.

Final stop of the day was just outside Grantown where we saw the Northern Brown Argus butterflies.

Friday 22 July We split into two groups for the day, with the high altitude team led by Dave initially thwarted by low cloud, resulting in a subterranean encounter (but above ground – obviously) with the Allt Mor Mole. Two Crested Tits at the same site. Slowly the cloud began to lift and we decided to go for it; a decision which paid off with a female Ptarmigan and a large, almost full-grown, chick lurking in the mist at the top of Lurchers Ridge. The mist came and went, and came back again, but in one of the clearer periods we found a male Dotterel with a single chick. We positioned ourselves and then stood still waiting quietly… great views of the Dotterel as they came closer and closer right towards us. Some Common Crossbills in Curr Wood finished the day off nicely.

Meanwhile Jonny’s group were getting on well too, firstly with a family of Parrot Crossbills in Woods near Grantown in the morning, then with Merlin and Peregrine on Cairngorm in the afternoon.

Individual Highlights Doug: Mull generally, Eagles particularly. Joan: Enjoyed seeing the Parrot Crossbills. John: Short-eared Owl and Dotterel. Malcolm: Too many highlights to pick one out. Margaret: Parrot Crossbills at last. John: Really pleased with Black Guillemots and admire the spread of Collared Doves. Tim: Without doubt the Golden Eagles ‘jet-diving’ Mike. Mike: Seeing the Osprey catch the fish. Ken: Never seen the Golden and White-tailed Eagle, but really enjoyed looking at ordinary birds. Norman: Eagles, Divers and Dotterel. Being a city-dweller I had never seen a Mole. Sheila: After slogging up the mountain, getting great photos of Dotterel. Alan: An excellent week. Audrey: Osprey and Black Guillemots. Frank: Eagles on Mull and chicks on the nest. Dave: Golden Eagles on Mull.

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge EAGLES, DIVERS AND DOTTEREL Inverness‐shire PH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248 Fax: 01479 821515 23 – 30 July 2011 Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guides: Jonny Pott, John Poyner.

The week began still feeling unseasonably cold, but we managed to stay dry, apart from Thursday.

Saturday Arrival, welcome, dinner and briefing.

Sunday An amazing group of six Black-throated Divers were found. Beautiful neck- swaying courting display was enjoyed, further topped by two Red- throated Divers flying overhead, calling. The show continued with a close fishing Osprey hovering over the water. This cracking start to the holiday was further added to with the sight of two White-tailed Eagles, and a young Golden Eagle up Strathdearn by the River Findhorn.

Monday On the way to the Isle of Mull we had good views of Black Guillemot at Corran. We stopped off at Salachan, where a full breeding plumage Great Northern Diver was found. This is unprecedentedly late (25 July) to see a Great Northern Diver, and a privilege to see on an Eagles, Divers and Dotterel week. Two were seen last week as well.

We had lunch by a White-tailed Eagle eyrie by the side of Loch na Keal on Mull. Further round the loch we came across a strangely behaving male Sparrowhawk hunting at close quarters alongside the shore. By the side of Loch

Scridain, only three guests got a fleeting view of an Otter. At the time, excellent views of a pair of Golden Eagles were had by all.

Finally, on our way to the Isle of Mull Hotel we had one more stop by Loch Spelve. A good, sustained view of a male Hen Harrier rounded off a great day of bird watching.

Tuesday After a restful night at our hotel with a great sea view, we explored an even more secluded part of the island. Red-throated Divers were calling in the bay. Then a pod of perhaps 20 Bottle-nosed Dolphins turned up. Some holidaymakers had access to boats and canoes, and had the experience of a lifetime, surrounded by these very special creatures.

We had one last stop by Loch Spelve for another close flying male Hen Harrier. We stopped for lunch by Loch Sunart, hoping for another chance to see Otter.

Wednesday Only three of the group opted to do other things rather than go up the mountain to look for Ptarmigan and Dotterel. It was a superb day. Shortly after lunchtime two adult Ptarmigan were discovered on the side of Cairn Lochan above the Lairig Ghru pass. Not long afterwards, four Dotterel, including a well-grown chick were found on the top of Cairn Lochan. On the way down, a female Ptarmigan and two well-grown chicks were found. In the evening we took a drive up to Dorback. Thursday Kevin had set up the moth trap at his house during the night. At least 24 species were identified. Because it was raining we decided to go to Troup Head on the Moray Coast. Excellent views were enjoyed of the Gannet colony and many Puffins were flying to and fro as well as floating on the sea. On our way back two Whimbrel flew overhead, calling. We adjourned to picturesque Pennan village for lunch. A Great Skua was spotted out to sea.

Our final stop was at Cullen, where another perched Whimbrel was found and three Turnstones.

Friday This morning we visited the Grantown woods to look for Crossbills. A small but chunky female Crossbill was found and got in the scope for all to see.

We then drove to our estate. A good flying view of a cock Capercaillie was seen by most of the guests on the top circuit, and later another cock flew up between the buses, providing good views for the second bus. The same bus was also fortunate to get most of the occupants onto a perched male Goshawk. We went to the mast at the top of the hill for lunch, where good views of Crested Tits were had by all.

Then we went to Loch Ruthven to see Slavonian Grebes, rounding off the day and the week, at Chanonry Point on the Black Isle in glorious weather.

Saturday Breakfast and departure. Thank you!

Conclusion The holiday thoroughly lived up to what was ‘written on the tin’!

Individual Highlights

Dave: Six Black-throated Divers and perched Goshawk.

Peter: Impressed by Gannets, Troup Head. Impressive Charles Rennie Mackintosh House!

Mavis: six Black-throated Divers on first day.

Pip: Seeing Dotterel and Ptarmigan on the mountain after a long walk.

David: Divers, Crested Tits – terrific week!

Liz: Mountain walk. Troup Head: Whimbrel calling overhead.

John: The Gannets and the views.

Pauline: Creeping Lady’s Tresses in the forest, and the six Divers.

Eve: Seeing Divers in summer plumage. Scoping flying Red- and Black-throated Divers.

Pat: Call of the Red-throated Divers; Dolphins; the pies for lunch.

Joan: Seeing Sparrowhawk walking around rocks

Colin: Seven lifers this week.

Ruth: Dotterel after the effort. Troup Head. The friendship of the group.

Gemma: Troup Head.

Tim: Divers and Whimbrel.

Joan: Friendliness of the group. Lochbuie Red-throated Divers and Dolphins. Whole countryside.

Your gateway to Scottish birds and wildlife!

AUGUST 2011

Top 30 Highland Wildlife in summer – notes from our guides!

Based in two centres to show you the key birds and mammals of Scotland, we use our specialist knowledge, local access to private estates, and a sea trip off the west coast to find the most elusive and sought after of Scotland’s wonderful wildlife. This is only possible with experienced guides, and Heatherlea know the wildlife of this holiday extremely well. Once known as ‘The Top Twenty’, this extraordinary holiday is so packed with wildlife we upgraded it some years ago to THE TOP THIRTY! ......

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

TOP 30 HIGHLAND WILDLIFE IN SUMMER Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge Inverness‐shire PH25 3EB 31 July – 6 August 2011 Tel: 01479 821248 Fax: 01479 821515 Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guides: Jonny Pott, Dave Pullan.

Saturday 30 July Arrival, welcome, dinner and briefing.

Sunday 31July Due to rain and poor weather at Nethy Bridge we decided to drive north to the Black Isle in a quest for better conditions. At Chanonry Point there were 2 or 3 Bottlenose Dolphins and a Common Seal. A mixed flock of Dunlin and Ringed Plover flew past and a pale morph Arctic Skua was seen. Another 3 Dolphins were at North Kessock, performing a bit better than the ones at Chanonry, showing heads and tails and leaping right out.

From Inverness we drove inland. Three adult Black-throated Divers swimming together at close-range were superb on Loch Duntelchaig. For lunch we stopped at Loch Ruthven where one Slavonian Grebe was seen reasonably well and 2 more were quite distant. Then a drive over the Farr Road produced several Red Grouse.

To finish off the day we took a walk along a track in Abernethy Forest near Forest Lodge, but all was quiet with few birds moving or calling.

Monday 1 August Two Crested Tits at the Mountview Hotel itself were a good start to the day. Then we drove to the west coast via the Corran ferry where we saw Black Guillemot. A stop next to Loch Arisaig (Common Tern and Common Seal) and then we boarded our ferry. The crossing was superbly calm and after a 20-minute stop at Eigg we continued across to Muck.

Manx Shearwaters were everywhere in big numbers, often very close to the boat sitting in groups on the water. At least 10 Harbour Porpoises were seen but the highlight was a Minke Whale which seemed as interested in us as we were in it. Several times it was very close to the boat and lifted the top of its head out of the water as it surfaced.

We had lunch on Muck and then took a short walk. Rock Doves were seen but Twite were elusive, just a few Linnets instead. A fledged young Song Thrush being fed by its parent gave good views. Then on the return boat journey we had more Minke Whale and Porpoise sightings, as well as huge numbers of Shearwaters. Two Great Skuas were seen ‘in action’. Finally, once back on dry land, we drove the scenic route to Strontian for our 2 night stay.

Tuesday 2 August After breakfast we met Heatherlea guide Matt Wilson who would be our local expert for the day. At Loch Sunart 5 Greenshank were roosting on an island at high tide. Common Seals and Goosanders were near-by. Following the shoreline round we stopped to look at Common Terns and Porpoises. Scotch Argus butterflies were present in good numbers, and we saw our first Golden Eagle.

An Otter amongst the floating seaweed was great to see, and we had more Golden Eagle sightings, taking our total to 5 at various stops on our exploration of the Morvern peninsula. We also saw at least 3 White-tailed Eagles, including one which was being mobbed by a Raven; the size difference was huge, with the complete wingspan of the Raven fitting easily into just one wing of the Eagle.

Mat told us about his in-depth studies of the local wildlife and then we returned to Strontian for dinner before heading out again. This time we were looking for Pine Martens and despite the heavy rain we were lucky, and saw one animal well as it scoffed the food that had been left out for it.

Soprano Pipstrelles were seen on the way back, identified with the aid of a bat detector.

Wednesday 3 August Leaving Strontian behind we drove along a very calm Loch Sunart with impressive reflections mirrored in the water. On the way to Kingairloch a young Red Fox walking nonchalantly along the road was a surprise. Ringed Plovers and Eiders from our coffee stop overlooking a bay, and several Whitethroats as we left.

Following the narrow Loch Linnhe road we stopped every now and then to look at Rock Pipits, Wheatears and Eiders. The best sighting was of at least 4 Twite on a rocky slope above the road.

At the Corran ferry there were a few complicated ramp issues, where the relief ferry’s ramp wouldn’t lift out of the water, forcing it to turn back and unload all the vehicles.

Eventually we all got across on the bigger main ferry and stopped for lunch at a picnic site overlooking the loch and the hills.

A White-tailed Eagle over the ridge opposite was a nice, if brief, bonus. Back home, Goldeneye and a pair of displaying Red-throated Divers were on Loch Insh. And nearby, close to Kincraig, a fledged juvenile Osprey was sitting in a tree near the nest.

Later in the evening the first group had a successful Badger-watching session.

Thursday 4 August Crested Tits were back at the Mountview Hotel as we prepared to leave, so we got a second chance to catch up with these never-still-for-a- moment birds. Near Carrbridge, we all managed to see a male Capercaillie amongst the bilberry shrubs. Two more Crested Tits were seen and a Red Deer also.

We had lunch at Loch Garten, where yet more Crested Tits were seen on the feeders, along with Red Squirrels and Great Spotted Woodpeckers. Ospreys were still present. Then we went Grantown to search for Crossbills, but unfortunately they were heard and not seen.

Later in the evening the second group had a successful Badger-watching session, despite the rain.

Friday 5 August A young Crossbill near Loch Garten for some of us, then the group split up for the day to tackle the Cairngorm area. Once the cloud had lifted Dave’s group was able to follow Lurchers Ridge up onto Cairn Lochan. A female Ptarmigan was on the ridge and 2 Peregrines flew across, one of them calling. At the top we tracked down a male Dotterel with 2 large, almost fledged, chicks and were able to get close views.

Meanwhile Jonny’s group were able to watch Snow Bunting from the ‘Ptarmigan Restaurant’. Red-throated Diver was seen on Loch Morlich.

Saturday 6 August Breakfast and departure. Thank you!

Individual Highlights

Brian: Minke Whale, Eigg-Muck boat. Pine Marten.

Jenny: Pine Marten.

Malcolm: Educational week, learning from the guides.

Pam: Manx Shearwater flocks on Eigg-Muck boat trip.

Ruth: Raven mobbing White-tailed Eagle – huge size difference.

David: Arisaig boat trip. Dotterel experience.

Phil: Dotterel and Ptarmigan.

Joan: Small Isles boat trip. Manx Shearwater and minke Whale. Song Thrush feeding young on Muck.

Susan: Manx Shearwaters on boat trip. White-tailed Eagle, adult on ground next to sheep on hillside.

Robin: Black-throated Divers close up. Great scenery. Watching Eagles on Morvern peninsula.

Pat: Bottlenose Dolphins breaching. Otter. Manx Shearwaters. Crested Tit. Dotterel experience.

Linda: Ptarmigan and Dotterel. Minke Whale. Golden Eagles x 5!

Paul: Ptarmigan and Dotterel. Great Skuas in action on boat trip.

Jane: Manx Shearwaters. West coast scenery. Fox.

Jonny: Minke Whale.

Dave: Minke Whale.

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

THE TOP 30 HIGHLAND WILDLIFE IN SUMMER Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge Inverness‐shire PH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248 Fax: 01479 821515 Email: [email protected] Saturday 6 – Saturday 13 August 2011 www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guides: John Poyner and Dave Pullan.

Sunday Highlights: Slavonian Grebes and a female Hen Harrier at Loch Ruthven; Dolphins at Chanonry Point; Black-throated Divers.

Monday Today’s boat trip was very rough, so no whales or dolphins were seen. Highlights: The boat going through flocks of Shearwaters and being joined by Bonxie flying behind us. For some, getting back to land!

Tuesday Today we were with Matt. Highlights: Both Eagles, particularly good views of White-tailed Eagle. The talk from Matt in the garden. Two young Pine Martens playing next to the bus.

Wednesday Highlights: A Ringtail Hen Harrier over Loch Sunart. Three Great Northern Divers on Loch Linnhe; a single Black-throated Diver on Loch Laggan. Badgers for some in the evening.

Thursday Highlights: Three Capercaillie in the estate and great view of Crestie. Close view of Golden Eagle at Coignafearn being mobbed by Buzzards; Red Squirrels at the feeders at Loch Garten. Badgers for some in the evening.

Friday John’s bus went to Cairn Gorm but the weather was not good. Saw Otter, a pair of Red- throated Divers and a Crestie at Loch Morlich.

A remarkable note to the week was getting all three Divers in summer plumage.

Saturday Breakfast and departure. Thank you!

Individual Highlights

Wanda: Eagles being mobbed by Buzzards at Strathdearn.

Brayton: Breeding plumage Great Northern Diver.

Sheila: Pine Martens. Colourful flowers.

Peter: Badgers and Hen Harriers.

Janet: Close Dolphins at Chanonry.

David: Badgers, Golden Eagle, and Reindeer.

Kath: Dolphins, ‘memorable’ boat trip, Badgers and Ospreys.

Colin: Golden Eagles views in the scope.

Keith: Dolphins at Chanonry.

Sallie: Male Hen Harrier. Scotch Argus butterfly.

Dave: Golden Eagle with Buzzards and Pine Martens.

John: Boat trip and Eagles.

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

THE TOP THIRTY HIGHLAND WILDLIFE IN SUMMER Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge Inverness‐shire PH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248 Fax: 01479 821515 Saturday 13 – Saturday 20 August 2011 Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guide: Jonny Pott and John Poyner

Introduction This week we enjoyed fine weather, apart from a wet day with Matt Wilson on Tuesday and a damp end to the day on Thursday, but with an autumnal edge already.

Sunday We went alongside the River Findhorn to Farr for a first attempt at Golden Eagle, with no success, but both Red Squirrels and Roe Deer were seen. Just two Slavonian Grebes were seen from the hide at Loch Ruthven. We then headed to Inverness, catching sight of Bottle- nosed Dolphins at Chanonry Point. We also enjoyed a supporting cast of Common and Grey Seals, which are also members of the Top Thirty, and some passing Common and Sandwich Terns. Red Kites were seen by some.

We returned inland and found two Black-throated Divers, Red Grouse and a fishing Osprey. So, eight of the Top Thirty were seen on the first day.

Monday There was a slight breeze, which was welcome for keeping the midges off, but the sea from Arisaig to Eigg and Muck was a bit choppy, reducing our chances of seeing cetaceans. Inland it was raining, but the Inner Hebrides were bathed in sun! There must have been at least 1500 Manx Shearwaters on the sea with Black Guillemots in the harbour already turning into their non-breeding plumage. The boat slowed for Common Seals just out of Arisaig and approaching Eigg. A colony of Grey Seals was hauled up on rocks at the mouth of Muck harbour.

While having lunch, John spotted a rat-like bird skulking through the irises, which turned out to be a Corncrake, the first one we had ever seen on the island after many years of visiting. On our walk along the island’s only tarmac road we found a group of real Rock Doves in a mown field and a bit further, a large flock of Greenfinches and Linnets, suddenly joined by some Twite.

On the way back in the boat, Jonny caught sight of three Harbour Porpoise, and some got onto them. John thought we had stopped for a Minke Whale which he had spotted coming up for air at the back of the boat. Everyone got excellent close views of the Minke which breached on several occasions.

We knew we were very lucky as Ronnie, the skipper, had been sceptical of our seeing any whales. As it was we had added another seven species of the Top Thirty to our tally.

Tuesday The day began overcast with the promise of heavy rain to follow. We met Matt Wilson at the head of Loch Sunart and went in search of Otter. It was a full tide so some sleepy Greenshank, Oystercatchers and Goosanders roosted on an island. While parked in a layby beside the loch, John saw an Otter along the shore, so we drove closer and everyone managed to get sustained views for about 15 minutes.

Before the promised rain we thought we should keep looking for Eagles. Apart from a Kestrel, which are quite rare in Morvern, and the odd Buzzard, not many raptors were flying. As we drove the rain came on heavily, and after a brief visit to Lochaline we spent the rest of the day at Matt Wilson’s home. A White-tailed Eagle was perched in a conifer not far away which we were able to scope. Matt also has a young captive White-tailed Eagle, that he is training for work with the public. Matt entertained us with stories of Pine Martens nesting in his roof, and showed us flight feathers of eagles.

At the end of the day at least two distant Golden Eagles were seen at the Loch Sunart hide, and after dinner, Pine Martens were seen well. Another four species to add to the Top Thirty list: Otter, White-tailed Eagle, Golden Eagle and Pine Marten.

Wednesday Another bright, sunny day. We stopped to look for Eagles in the same place as yesterday, and our patience was eventually rewarded with an excellent, fairly close view of a Golden Eagle, first spotted by Terry. A few moments later, another pair were seen soaring above a hill.

At our coffee stop by Loch Linnhe, we eventually all saw Harbour Porpoise. Just before the Corran Ferry, we stopped again to see if there were any Great Northern Divers about. We weren’t disappointed; an immature and one in full breeding plumage were seen. Later John spotted a pair of White-tailed Eagles soaring above the hills on the far side of the loch.

We took in one last stop at Loch Insh and saw an Osprey chick still on the eyrie, eating a fish which had been brought in for it.

Thursday It was another threatening- looking day with showers forecast for the afternoon. We were still looking for Mountain Hare, so we headed up into mountains by the River Findhorn. No Hares were seen but we were more than consoled by very close views of a sub-adult White-tailed Eagle being mobbed by four Buzzards. In the afternoon we went into the estate to look for Capercaillie. One flying male was briefly seen by Jonny and two guests. Later we looked for Crested Tits and Crossbills in Grantown woods, the Cresties were seen fleetingly in the tops of the trees. On both Wednesday and Thursday evenings, Badgers were seen well from Jonny’s home in Tulloch, as well as Common Pipistrelle and Daubenton’s Bats.

Friday The morning began with inversion and full of promise for a superb day for the mountain day, and it turned out to be just that. A pair of Ptarmigan were found at the top of the ridge at 3,300 ft, beautifully camouflaged in among the rocks. Another hen Ptarmigan was disturbed as we began the last ascent of Cairn Lochan. There was a slight question mark as to whether Dotterel would still be around, but we soon spotted an immature Dotterel only feet away in front of us. It suddenly disappeared behind a tussock. Satisfied with what we had seen we moved on, only to find the dotterel sitting on the opposite side of the tussock, again only a few feet away. We walked by without disturbing it.

Conclusion It had been an enjoyable and satisfying week, all species were seen, apart from a large enough Crossbill and the elusive Mountain Hare!

Individual Highlights

Terry: Minke Whale, Pine Marten, Dolphins, Dotterel and the company.

Richard: Minke Whale, Otter and Pine Marten. Fantastic scenery.

Alan: Pine Marten and a helpful group.

Frances: The mammals. Minke Whale, Pine Marten, Badger.

Andrea: Pine Marten, Otter, going up and down the mountain.

Diane: Pine Marten, Otter, beautiful scenery, Great Northern Diver in summer plumage.

Simon: Trip to Eigg and Muck, Shearwaters from the boat, seeing the Dotterel chick.

Rodger: Going up the mountain.

Lesley: Minke Whale, Corncrake and warm welcome at the hotel.

Peter: Minke Whale. Being on the boat. Corncrake.

Your gateway to Scottish birds and wildlife!

Highlands and Remotest Aberdeenshire – notes from our guides!

Some of the remotest birding on the British mainland. We visit key Aberdeenshire sites Loch of Strathbeg, the Ythan Estuary and Troup Head. We also have time for the spectacular resident species of mainland Scotland, with Capercaillie, Ptarmigan, Crested Tit, Black Grouse, Golden Eagle and much more inland. With all this plus migrants, gannets, other seabirds and the unexpected at isolated eastern outposts, this is a cracking trip! ......

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

HIGHLANDS AND REMOTEST ABERDEENSHIRE Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge, Inverness‐shire PH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248 Fax: 01479 82151 E‐mail: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk

20 – 27 August 2011

Heatherlea Guide: Dave Pullan.

Saturday 20 August Arrival, welcome, dinner and briefing.

Sunday 21 August A bright sunny morning was noticeably breezy by the time we reached the Findhorn valley. A Buzzard landed in a field close to the road and flew off clutching a small mouse or vole. Red Kites flew low over the road in Strathdearn a few miles further on; we counted 3 on the way through but on the way back saw 6 together (4 on the ground together at one stage). Further up, an immature White‐tailed Eagle flew over. Other raptors included a brief view of a Sparrowhawk on a roadside post, as well as a Peregrine and Kestrel. Two Dippers were on the river and Scotch Argus butterflies were abundant.

A search for Capercaillie was unsuccessful. After lunch we visited a nest where a fully grown juvenile Osprey (our 7th raptor species of the day) was still on the nest. Goldeneye and Tufted Duck were on the loch.

Treecreeper, Goldcrest, and Coal Tits were seen but we were unlucky with further searching for Crested Tits. One Red Squirrel.

Monday 22 August Our first Aberdeenshire birding stop was at the RSPB Loch of Strathbeg reserve. Through the glass windows of the visitor centre we made out Ruff, Black‐tailed Godwit and Greenshank. And a Marsh Harrier was also seen. Then we drove a few miles to the coast where a good selection of waders included Bar‐tailed Godwit, Knot, Turnstone, Curlew, Redshank and Ringed Plover. Sandwich Terns too.

We had lunch with over 5,000 Gannets and their large (close to fledging) chicks at Troup Head. At least one Great Skua low over the sea, several Fulmars hanging on the updrafts along the clifftops and a line of Shags on the rocks below. A Rock Pipit was seen on the fence as we arrived.

Following the Moray Firth coast westwards we stopped at Cullen. Out in the bay were quite a few Shags, and some small groups of Guillemots and Razorbills. A few Kittiwakes were amongst other gulls at the mouth of the stream, and Sandwich Terns and a couple of Eiders were also seen.

The last stop of the day (apart from the long traffic jam at Fochabers) was round the corner at Portnockie where we saw 2 Black Guillemots.

Tuesday 23 August Most of the morning and early afternoon were spent in the Cairngorm area. The hikers were rewarded with 2 Ptarmigan, while those that visited the ‘Ptarmigan Restaurant’ found a group of young Snow Buntings.

The remainder of the day was spent around Lochindorb. Several Ravens along the way, and 7 Red Grouse in the heather. An adult Black‐throated Diver still in breeding plumage showed well on the loch, where we were also able to watch an Osprey fishing.

Wednesday 24 August Our second foray across to the east Aberdeenshire coast began at the Ythan estuary. The tide was high, with waders crowded onto the remaining available mud. Large numbers of Golden Plover. Quite a few Lapwings and Curlews, with smaller numbers of Dunlin, Ruff and Greenshank. Sandwich Terns and a couple of Common Terns. Along the overgrown banks of a nearby stream were a few Tree Sparrows, Reed Bunting, Yellowhammer, Blackcap and Sedge Warbler. An Osprey caught a fish as we were returning to the minibus.

We then checked out the mouth of the estuary in very calm, warm, sunny conditions. More Sandwich Terns here, along with Eiders, Knot and a small party of 6 Sanderling. Two Common Seals swam along the channel.

A few miles down the coast we went in search of Scoter. A Stoat ran across the track, and we did find a flock of Common Scoters but they were just tiny dots a great distance away. At this moment news came through of a Greenish Warbler at Collieston so we decided to give that a try (after watching a couple of Arctic Skuas).

Unfortunately we failed to get satisfactory views of the Warbler and we soon ran out of time. A final look on the Ythan estuary came up with 3 Little Egrets together, still a rare sight in Scotland.

Thursday 25 August A beautiful sunny day. Great views of a Crested Tit at close‐range in good light at Inverlaidnan but again no Capers. Close views of a perched Buzzard, distant views of a flying Osprey. Sparrowhawk and Red Squirrel were also seen. Two young Common Lizards basked on a discarded tyre.

We made a return visit to the Findhorn valley for lunch and a short walk at Coignafearn. One lucky observer caught up with Golden Eagle but the rest of us had to make do with the immature White‐tailed Eagle! Lots of scanning, a Peregrine, and an Osprey with a fish. Grass Of Parnassus was in flower.

Friday 26 August Yet another Osprey, this time at Tugnet, Spey Bay. As always, there were lots of good scanning opportunities at this site. Waders included a single Ruff, Knot and a Common Sandpiper. Curlews were roosting in the long grass and a flock of 15 migrating Whimbrel flew in calling, circled the bay and then drifted off west along the coast. The usual Goosander flocks were on the shingle and off the mouth. Out to sea there was an Arctic Skua and a good count of 14 Black Guillemots. A school of Bottlenose Dolphins cruised in just as we were getting ready to move on out.

The next stop was on the opposite side of the Bay, at Kingston. The same dolphins were making their way westwards and we saw Red‐throated Divers, including an adult in breeding plumage.

We followed the Moray coast westwards too, and the best sightings were a juvenile Little Stint on the Lossie estuary and a Black‐tailed Godwit at Findhorn.

Finally for the day, and the week, we called in at Grantown woods, where we were able to watch a flock of 8 Parrot Crossbills (5 rusty red males) feeding on green cones at the top of a Scots Pine tree.

Saturday Breakfast and departure. Thank you!

Individual Highlights

Rob: Osprey nearly every day. Roy: Black‐throated Diver. Gannet colony, Troup Head. Len: Crested Tit. Good views. Frank: White‐tailed Eagle. Three Little Egrests. Paul: Troup Head experience. Black‐throated Diver. Bernie: Osprey fishing. Snow Bunting. Stan: Crested Tit and Parrot Crossbill. White‐tailed Eagle. Black Guillemot. Black‐throated Diver.

Trip Report and Photographs: Dave Pullan.

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

HIGHLANDS AND REMOTEST Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd ABERDEENSHIRE The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge Inverness‐shire PH25 3EB Tel: 01479 821248 Fax: 01479 821515 27 August – 3 September 2011 Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guides: Jonny Pott, John Poyner

Introduction There is a strong hint of autumn already with warblers, flycatchers and pipits flocking and feeding where insects are still bountiful before heading south. Any remaining chicks, particularly in the Gannet colony, are almost all ready to fledge.

Saturday Arrival, welcome, dinner and briefing.

Sunday Another feature of the week was the beginning of unsettled weather so the decision was made to go to the Black Isle. At our first stop a variety of waders included Bar‐tailed Godwit and Redshank. A bit further up, flocks of returning Scaup were seen and Wigeon. At Chanonry ePoint, Bottl ‐nosed Dolphin were showing just off the point, with passing Sandwich and Common Terns chased by Arctic Skuas. The last port of call on the Black Isle was Redcastle. We rounded off the day at the Loch Garten Visitor Centre.

Monday It was still unsettled so we headed over to the Ythan Estuary in Aberdeenshire, stopping off at the Forvie hide for coffee, Shelduck, Golden Plover, Dunlin and more distant waders. John then got a text that a Red‐rumped Swallow had been seen at Meikle Loch. Dave managed to get a good view of it, but the rest of us struggled among the mass of Barn Swallows flying over the loch. By Cotehill Loch a really strange warbler was found that not even the Aberdeenshire expert birders were able to positively ID. Bonelli’s, Tennessee or a strange Willow Warbler were all suggested.

At Collieston, Red‐throated Divers were seen off the shore and several Skuas passed, including a young Pomarine. On the road back via Slain’s Pool two juvenile migrant Sparrow‐hawks allowed us to watch them fly from fence post to post for several minutes. Back at the mouth of the Ythan we found Little Gull among a flock

of Sandwich Tern and a Curlew Sandpiper among Dunlin, Ringed Plover and a Knot. Just outside Newburgh, Jonny’s bus found a field with 30 Black‐tailed Godwits.

Tuesday We found a dead tree in Grantown Woods with a flock of Parrot Crossbills showing really well. Three hen Capers were found in our private estate. A Golden Eagle was seen well but only fleetingly by a few guests up Coignafearn. On the way back Jonny’s bus had a ‘raptor fest’, starting with an ‘unkindness of Ravens’ mobbing Buzzards, a juvenile Hen Harrier and Peregrine Falcon, a Red Kite in the foreground and an Osprey disappearing into the clouds in the distance.

Wednesday There were still some young Gannets to fledge at Troup Head on a return visit to Aberdeenshire. We carried on to Loch of Strathbeg for a great selection of waders, including Ruff, Golden Plover, Lapwing, Redshank, Greenshank, Dunlin and Black‐tailed Godwits. There were also ducks, including Gadwall, Shoveler, Pintail, Wigeond an Teal. On our way home we called in at St Combs for Sanderling, Knot and three Red‐throated Diver out to sea.

Thursday One Black‐throated Diver still remained on our local loch, beginning to come into winter plumage. With improving weather we went up to Cairn Gorm to look for Ptarmigan. Jonny took four guests up into Coire an Lochan, where at least five cock Ptarmigan were located.

John’s group went to local lochans and Insh Marshes. Jonny’s group went up to Dorback where six Black Grouse were found.

Friday A lot of passerines including Linnet, Greenfinch and Goldfinch and Yellowhammer were on the fields at Spey Bay. A Little Stint was found among Dunlin at the river mouth, also very late Common Sandpipers. A Dipper was seen at Broomhill Bridge on the way home.

Despite some challenging weather from time to time, most birds searched for were found.

Saturday Breakfast and departure. Thank you!

Individual Highlights

Peter: Aberdeenshire Coast. Strathbeg for variety of species.

Margaret: Troup Head and Findhorn Valley both beautiful.

Maurice: Capercaillie and Black‐throated Diver in summer plumage.

David: Spotting Red‐rumped Swallow! Gannets.

Iain: Capercaillie, and Osprey fishing at Spey Bay. Also Black‐throated Diver.

Fiona: Curlew Sandpiper, Sanderling and Troup Gannets.

Anthony: Lochindorb and the landscapes.

Ted: Gannets, Black‐throated Diver and diving Osprey.

Alannah: View from mountain and Gannets.

Jon: Ptarmigan. Walk. Coming back to Heatherlea – another well run tour. Ptarmigan.

John: Finally seeing Dolphins at Chanonry.

Diana: Dolphins at Chanonry. Black‐throated Diver.

Anne: Troup Head and Strathbeg. Juvenile Swallows and juvenile House Martin on wire.

Your gateway to Scottish birds and wildlife!

SEPTEMBER 2011

Scottish Specialities and Autumn Migration – notes from our guides!

With fabulous migration around the coast of northern Scotland coupled with the special resident birds of the Highlands, this is an absorbing and exciting holiday where anything might turn up! Each week we visit the best spots on the coast, and travel across The Minch to the Outer Hebrides to see migrating shearwaters, petrels and skuas. Absorbing birding and a wonderful Hebridean experience! With all speciality birds found in good numbers, and seabird flocks beginning to build, this is one of the best times to come to Scotland......

HEATHERLEA TRIP SUMMARY

SCOTTISH SPECIALITIES AND Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd AUTUMN MIGRATION The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge Inverness‐shire PH25 3EB 10 – 17 September 2011 Tel: 01479 821248 Fax: 01479 821515 Email: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk Heatherlea Guides: Jonny Pott, John Poyner.

Highlights of the Week

Saturday 10 September: Arrival, welcome, dinner and briefing.

Sunday 11 September Superb flock of 30+ Parrot Crossbills in Grantown Woods. Skua passage off Chanonry Point, as well as Gannets and Terns. Peregrine catching Oystercatchers.

Monday 12 September Wader passage on the Moray Firth. Hundreds of House Martins over the sea.

Tuesday 13 September Stags in Strathdearn. Enjoyed looking for Golden Eagles in superb scenery of Strathdearn, and a walk in the Pine woods.

Wednesday 14 September Aberdeen. Huge numbers of birds at Strathbeg. Pectoral Sandpiper among Lapwings and Ruff. First Pink‐footed Geese arriving. Ruff close to the visitor centre.

Thursday 15 September Stornoway. Beautiful day and ferry crossing. Sooty Shearwaters and pod of Common dolphins joined the boat.

Friday 16 September Red grouse on Dava Moor close to the van. Otter on the Spey at Grantown.

Individual Highlights

Mike: Chanonry Point. Seabird passage.

Nick: Pectoral Sandpiper. Peregrine Falcon taking Oystercatcher.

Steve: First sight of Pink‐footed Geese.

Anne: Pink‐footed Geese arriving.

Elaine: Black Grouse.

Jim: Black Grouse.

Sue: Close‐up of Goldfinches at Strathbeg.

Jim: Stags in Strathdearn.

Sarah: Parrot Crossbills on Day 1.

Alan: Seeing the Peregrine kill.

Janet: Red Squirrels, and Dolphins from ferry.

Jenny: Parrot Crossbills and first Geese. Otter in the Spey.

Peter: Crossbills and Peregrine.

Sue: Crossbills day! Boat trip; Gannets diving.

Richard: Findhorn Bay waders and Geese coming in. Raft of Eiders at Roseisle. Otter.

Brian: Parrot Crossbills. Peregrine scoffing Oystercatcher. Ferry trip, Sooty Shearwaters.

HEATHERLEA TRIP REPORT

Heatherlea (Scotland) Ltd SCOTTISH SPECIALS AND The Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge Inverness‐shire PH25 3EB AUTUMN MIGRATION Tel: 01479 821248 Fax: 01479 821515 Email: [email protected] 17 – 24 September 2011 www.heatherlea.co.uk

Heatherlea Guides: Jonny Pott, John Poyner.

Introduction The unsettled tail end of hurricanes continued into this week, which was great for migrants, but challenging for Scottish Specials. The heather is still in bloom, with plenty of White‐ tailed Bumblebees and Common Hawker dragonflies having an extension to their season.

Sunday A great start to the week in Abernethy forest with lots of Cresties flitting about just above everyone’s heads in the trees. The weather was unsettled so the decision was made to go to the Black Isle, the first stop being at Redcastle. Several waders were accounted for and a fishing Osprey. At Chanonry Point three tern species were accounted for being harried by Arctic and Great Skuas. Next stop was Udale Bay with more waders, including a stunning pair of Curlew Sandpipers, as well as Black‐tailed and Bar‐tailed Godwits. Finally, both Scaup and Slavonian Grebes were found out in the Cromarty Firth.

Monday It was a much calmer and brighter day, ideal for the ferry trip from Ullapool to Stornoway. A flock of Twite were seen in flight before getting onto the ferry. As we left Loch Broom a few Guillemots and Razorbills were seen, which increased in number as we got out to sea. Groups of two or three Black Guillemots were also seen. We had excellent views of Harbour Porpoises.

After a rather quiet patch, Jonny suggested to the group that we go inside and look out of the front window of the ferry for a while. Shortly afterwards a flock xof Man Shearwaters turned up on the front starboard side, accompanied by up to 15 Sooty Shearwaters. Soon afterwards Brian and then Phil picked up a Storm Petrel dancing along ahead of the ferry. Quite a few more Storm Petrels were then seen, some really close to the front of the ferry. Eventually everyone got onto the Petrels. There was also an unconfirmed sighting of a Cory’s Shearwater in the company of Fulmars. A small pod of Common Dolphins put in two appearances and several people, including other passengers, got a sighting of a Minke Whale rushing to get out of the way of the ferry on the way back to Ullapool.

Tuesday The reasonably settled weather was continuing, so we made a dash for the mountain. Some of us opted to go up the Cairn Gorm funicular. The rest walked up into Coire Cas. Two helicopters went over, first flushing a flock of 20 Ptarmigan over the Ptarmigan Restaurant at the top of the funicular, which only Jonny saw. The second then flushed a covey of Red Grouse and some Snow Buntings over the heads of our group. Fortunately not all the

Ptarmigan had been flushed, and a covey of 12 birds was found, close views being enjoyed by all guests who had walked up. Once back at the car park, the Ptarmigan covey was scoped for those guests who had gone up the funicular for a more distant view!

Most of the afternoon was spent up Strathdearn by the River Findhorn, where patience was eventually rewarded with a good view of a young Golden Eagle. Debbie found a Stonechat for us in the private estate, the first time one has been seen there for over two years.

Wednesday Our first port of call on our Aberdeenshire day was the Waukmill Hide by the Ythan Estuary. A beautiful flock of Black‐tailed Godwits flew about us, sometimes landing in the field behind us, but as the tide receded, coming back to the estuary. A Ruff was seen by some among the Redshank.

We travelled on to Collieston and then to Cruden Bay to look for migrants in the shelter of trees, but none were found, so we returned to the Ythan Estuary. At Newburgh we found a Little Egret and several waders. In a flock of Dunlin, a White‐rumped Sandpiper was discovered. We managed to get everyone onto it.

Thursday We had another day staying local, but it was windy, making it difficult to find Scottish Specials. A pair of Dippers were watched by the group at Broomhill Bridge. At the Allt Mor car park in Glenmore, a female Parrot Crossbill was seen flying over.

We rounded off the day at the Insh Marshes hide. We caught up with some Fieldfares in a flock of Mistle Thrushes, and Jonny saw a small unidentified thrush in among them. A flock of Pink‐footed Geese flew overhead, this time with two Barnacle Geese within their number. A Long‐tailed Tit flock passed by below us in trees overlooked by the hide, which included Willow Warblers, Redpoll and a Reed Bunting.

Friday We headed up to the Moray Coast, starting at the west end at Findhorn Bay. We found a Grey Plover, and an unidentified small wader. It was most likely an immature Sanderling, but its jizz was confusing. Better was to come, with a drake King Eider still very much in eclipse. Common Scoter and Red‐throated Diver were also seen. Then right by the side of the road at Hopeman, in a pool at a piggery, yet another adult White‐rumped Sandpiper had been discovered by the local recorder. It was in the company of two Ruff and Redshanks. It was still not over, with a Spotted Redshank found now two weeks in a row at Lossiemouth and a pale‐bellied Brent Goose at Spey Bay.

Conclusion Undoubtedly the ferry trip, mountain day and Moray Coast days were really exceptional experiences, and both the guides, let alone the guests, will particularly remember this week as being phenomenal for migrants and rarities.