Findhorn Valley was the venue for the morning and after parking up, it took less than 20 minutes to be into not one but two Golden Eagles bringing up the ‘100 species’ mark for the trip!. These were distant as ever but enjoyable scope views were had as they interacted with one another! Other raptors showing much closer were a pair of Peregrine, Kestrel and Buzzard. Dipper and Common Sandpiper showing well along the river.
Loch Ruthven produced the expected goods with Slavonian Grebes from the small beach. Red-breasted Merganser, Red Kite and a fly over Hooded Crow were also added. Two Red-throated Divers midway across the Loch.
Jim's having a read whilst attending to the call of nature?
Oops, wish I'd read that first! Mind you I've never seen a combustible fountain in fact I reckon that last thing you're likely to find in a fountain is a fire!
Unbelievably, a group of neoprene garbed divers (turned out to be open water swimmers) took to the water just before we left, the effect on the Divers was somewhat predictable – they left too!
A drive around the single track road taking in Loch Ashie etc was very productive too! Red Grouse from the car, at least six Hooded Crow......
Stonechat finally nailed here, plus an obliging Cuckoo!
The day ended at Lochindorb with a Treecreeper bringing up what was to be a final tally of 108 species!! Plus more Red Grouse......
