Well it was one of those days that started off good and ended great!
First up was a male Capercaillie, in full display mode in the half light of morning. This bird was right in the middle of the forest path and gave stunning views through the scope, it was reacting to something in the grass both sides of the path so perhaps other males were in the vicinity but these were not seen. Once again strict rules were adhered to and the bird was only viewed at distance.
Next was a trip to a local Black Grouse lek, and straight away, on leaving the car, the haunting bubbling call and hisses of Black grouse displaying could be heard. Views were distant but it is surprising just how far the calls carry. Two males were observed fighting and displaying, but at least four other birds were heard in the area, one grey hen put in a very brief appearance.
Ptarmigan
Last was the return journey and my banker location for Red Grouse, one male in particular was very confiding giving Bill a great opportunity of some stunning pictures.
First up was a male Capercaillie, in full display mode in the half light of morning. This bird was right in the middle of the forest path and gave stunning views through the scope, it was reacting to something in the grass both sides of the path so perhaps other males were in the vicinity but these were not seen. Once again strict rules were adhered to and the bird was only viewed at distance.
Next was a trip to a local Black Grouse lek, and straight away, on leaving the car, the haunting bubbling call and hisses of Black grouse displaying could be heard. Views were distant but it is surprising just how far the calls carry. Two males were observed fighting and displaying, but at least four other birds were heard in the area, one grey hen put in a very brief appearance.
Spot the Black Grouse!
Onwards and upwards, to the Ptarmigan Restaurant and the top of Cairngorm. After a very brief search a stunning male crept into view, still mainly in it's white winter plumage it remained in view for well over twenty minutes and created quite a queue of people wanting to use my 'scope!
Ptarmigan
Three lifers before lunch time for Bill!
Add to the birds: good company and the weather hitting a new record temperature for March it turned out to an absolutely top days birding!
A beautiful spring morning on Speyside.
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