Scotland trip report.
First of all, thanks to those who provided advice from this forum. Your hints and tips were much appreciated.
A cracking short break, and although a few of the Scottish specialities eluded us, plenty of new species were seen and the follow up trip next year should be even better. Starting at the RSPB’s loch of Kinnordy reserve, great views of a Water Rail family were obtained, and other birds of note included a large group of Ruddy Duck, some Common Gulls and Common Buzzards. On the negative side, no sign of any Black Necked Grebes, a bird which supposedly breeds on the loch. Can anyone explain their absence this year?
We called in at Monikie park on the way back, hoping to catch an Osprey doing a spot of evening fishing. Instead, picked up Little Grebe, Ringed Plover and a possible Wood Sandpiper, but it was only a glimpse as the bird in question disappeared into some reeds before positive id could be obtained.
Day 2 took us to the Tay forest park. A Black Throated Diver was seen at loch tummel on the way, and Buzzards were extremely numerous sitting on fences or circling above the hills. On the edge of the forest, a site proved extremely productive. Tree Pipit, Wood Warbler, Spotted Flycatcher, Siskin and Lesser Redpoll were all found within 20 metres of one another, living by a small stream. I was struck by how yellow the breast of the Wood Warbler was, a great bird. The Tree Pipits were very accomodating, allowing great views of a young family. To round off a great day, a stop at a loch (cant remember which) produced a roving Osprey, who passed through rather than stopping to fish, but a great look nonetheless.
Day 3 was the most quiet day, spent in Glen Clova. Red Grouse were seen by the roadside early morning, and a Dipper was seen feeding in a stream. The land looked ideal for Merlin and Short Eared Owl, but no luck with raptors today. Possibly the wrong time of year for best results?
The final day was without doubt the most memorable. Sea watching at Fife Ness and the Ythan estuary. 100’s of Gannets roamed back and forth, what an impressive sight. Further out to sea Sooty and Manx Shearwaters could be seen heading north, moving at some speed. The scene closer to shore threw up Golden Plover, Dunlin, Curlew, Eider, Red Breasted Merganser, Guillemot, Fulmar and Kittiwake to name a few. A large group of Shag watched on as a Great skua came close to the shore to harass some Terns. Also of note was a Sedge warbler feeding 2 chicks in some scrub, a late brood. A good day for mammals too- possible Minke Whales out to sea, and around 50 Grey Seals were seen in the estuary. What really grabbed me today was the sheer variety of birds in one small area, all going about their business. Watching migration in full flow is something to behold, and sea watching is something I plan to do much more of. To round off a great day, half an hour at loch of Kinnordy threw up a fishing Osprey.
On the whole a great trip, although it was a shame not to see the likes of Crested Tit or Scottish Crossbill. I think Speyside might be the place to see them, or a different time of year. We noticed the woods were quiet, and birds of prey proved elusive despite seeing Osprey on 3 different occassions. Still, so much more to see and do up here, looking forward to next years visit already!
Jim.
[QUOTE=jimbob]Scotland trip report.
Starting at the RSPB’s loch of Kinnordy reserve, great views of a Water Rail family were obtained, and other birds of note included a large group of Ruddy Duck, some Common Gulls and Common Buzzards. On the negative side, no sign of any Black Necked Grebes, a bird which supposedly breeds on the loch. Can anyone explain their absence this year?
Jim.[/QUOTE]
I heard that they had been predated by otters but I haven't been there for a few years and the info is second hand.
Gordon
The BNG haven't nested at Kinnordy for some years now, though they pay occasional visits, which always raises hopes. The Warden once told me they are nesting on another loch - obviously a secret location so I didn't ask. They have also been seen at Loch of Lintrathen.
Did you really do Fife Ness and Ythan Estuary the same day? WOW some journey - did you start at 3am or something? 
I saw my first Ruddy Duck at Kinnordy some 10 years ago but never since. I ALWAYS miss the Water Rail (they were here 5 minutes ago! 
,so well done. There are loads of pairs there though (about 17 I think).
Good report, glad you enjoyed yourself.
D