The Glens

 Saturday May 10

Starting with the moths .....  It didn't take long to sort the trap. Another two moths but, again, different from before. Poor photos - IPhone, through dirty pots.

Lunar Thorn - Scottish sub species

 

Water Carpet 

Our main destination was the lovely Findhorn Valley, or Strathdearn. We first visited one February when we didn't know better, We did have to leave the area early due to snow, but the day in Strathdearn was memorable. Our one and only view of a Stoat in winter white plumage, the almost fabled Ermine. Today, apart from the sun-bathed stunning scenery, was not memorable. Very few birds and no mammals. We added Raven, Red-legged Partridge, Pheasant (!) and Grey Wagtail to the trip list and I added Common Sandpiper to my year list.

Taking the high moorland road to Farr is an anticipated event. The road is single track with very few passing places, popular with touring motorcyclists. In the seven miles travelled we saw three birds, two Meadow Pipits and a female Wheatear. Not what the battered information board showed.

 We managed an hour watching Loch Ruthven, seeing a Red Kite, a Hooded Crow, and two elderly men in a small rowing boat. No Slavonian Grebes. I have read that only three pairs bred here last year, not good.

At least we missed the extensive roadworks on the A9 on the way home. A quick look at Alturlie and home for a late meal. Our clean laundry was waiting in the porch, another task Mike undertakes, he's a treasure.