π΄σ §σ ’σ ³σ £σ ΄σ Ώ Saturday 8th June 2024 π¦️ 10C ~ NE @ 15MPH ~ The unseasonably cold temperatures resulted in a fresh layer of snow over the Cairngorms on Saturday morning. Additionally, the strong, chilly winds and regular rain showers suggested that the weekend weather might not be as favourable as initially anticipated. Nevertheless, these concerns were unwarranted, as the weekend turned out to be an exceptionally good one.
Our meeting commenced at Craigellachie NNR in Aviemore, a site historically known for sightings of Pied Flycatchers and Wood Warblers. Early attendees, including myself, were fortunate to observe a pair of Ospreys gliding above the treetops. Due to the large turnout, we opted to divide into two groups; one guided by Craig Gordon and myself, and the other by David Leslie and his father Rob. We planned to reconvene at the car park for coffee.
 |
| One of four Spotted Flycatchers seen during our walk at Craigellachie NNR. |
An enjoyable walk featured a fine selection of woodland species, notably
Tree Pipit,
Pied Flycatcher,
Spotted Flycatcher, and
Willow Warbler. Unfortunately, we never managed any Wood Warblers, locally scarce here this year according to local birders but a good start nonetheless.
 |
| A smart-looking Common Redstart at Loch Mallachie. |
Following our visit to Craigellachie, we continued in two groups car-sharing and set out to explore additional sites around Speyside. Our group started at Loch Mallachie, embarking on the Two Lochs Walk, a circular trail originating from the car park. While the Crested Tit was our primary bird of interest, the initial highlight was a male
Redstart, which put on an impressive display, often singing and occasionally accompanied by a female. Other highlights included
Tree Pipit,
Crossbill and yes
Crested Tit, with two sightings during our walk.
 |
| Our group just after lunch at Loch Mallachie |
After lunch, we made our way to the Loch Garten visitor centre for a short visit. There, the group were delighted to observe an
Osprey near its nest, along with
Siskin,
Coal Tit,
Chaffinch,
Great Spotted Woodpecker, and
Red Squirrel. A brief drive took us to the Roadside Pools at Boat of Garten, where the
Slavonian Grebe was our main point of interest. Everyone enjoyed excellent scoped views, and we also spotted
Wigeon,
Little Grebe,
Shoveler,
Oystercatcher, and
Redshank. In the nearby fields, young
Mistle Thrushes and
Hares were seen, with numerous
Swifts and Hirundines gracefully skimming and catching flies.
 |
| Red Squirrel at Loch Garten |
The day concluded at Loch Morlich, where once again, Swifts, House Martins, and Sand Martins were seen swooping low over the water. A notable observation was a Red-throated Diver in its striking summer plumage.
 |
| Berlinda received her award for spotting the 1st Crested Tit. |
 |
| The whole group at dinner in Aviemore |
