Scotland - North Coast soaking

One thing about 'rainy' forecasts, they are invariably correct! So with heavy showers more likely that continuous rain, I opted for the north coast. 4 Black Grouse and Cuckoo on Dava Moor and next stop Findhorn Bay... It wasn't an idyllic start - lured out by distant small waders at a low tide , I got my first soaking walking out on the sand! All for a few  Ringed Plover, Sanderling and Dunlin!

Whilst drying out, a singing Whitethroat was the only photo opportunity...

It wasn't much better at Burghead, a short seawatch producing only Common Scoter, Fulmar, Kittiwake and Guillemot. No surprise to see a few Rock Pipits, northern birds are often darker and this was as smart a Rock Pip as I've seen! So a few easy pics then...

Time for a preen after the rain!

I spent most of the afternoon at the Lossie estuary where four Osprey were in the sky at one stage! They didn't all fish but one blue ringed bird came close!

Thanks you 'AN3'!

And surprise surprise, the Cuckoo (with two others) plus 4 Black Grouse were still at the same spot at Dava Moor when I lead a small group up there late evening.

Not sure if this departure shot is a work of 'art' or rubbish but it was nearly dark...

Yes you guessed it, more rain for for tomorrow!