North East Scotland
- Speyside Wildlife
- Apr 30
- 2 min read
By Julian Sykes and Andy Carroll
This was the first time we have run this holiday in this format, which was one centre and using a local SW guide in Andy Carroll. Like all inaugural tours there are teething issues but the week was a terrific success, especially staying the whole week in a fabulous location with wildlife right on the doorstep. The week was designed around a North Sea boat tour for White-billed Diver, which was brilliant (but very cold in a NE wind). We saw four species of diver with a couple of summer plumage White-bills, which were awesome and combined with a visit to the seabird city of Troup Head, made for a brilliant day.
RSPB Loch of Strathbeg was key, which we visited on more than one occasion and justifiably so as it produced wonderful looks at a pair of Spoonbill, a gorgeous Cinnamon Teal (of unknown origin), a Taiga Bean Goose amongst Whooper Swans, sky-dancing Marsh Harriers, Hen Harrier and an array of waders and wildfowl. One glorious day we headed to the famous Ythan Estuary, which produced a gorgeous summer plumage Spotted Redshank, Whimbrel and an Osprey fly-past.
However Andy (and his wife Caroline) live locally in 10 acres of land and entertained us one day first with their local breeding Common Cranes, followed by incredible views of Goshawk from their decking whilst enjoying a hot drink, comfy seat and warm sunshine. This was later followed by a look at their Barn Owls, which are occupying a garden nest box - no wonder this part of the week was a few people’s ‘magic moment’
I truly hope we get to run this holiday again as it is such rich area, stacked with wonderful wildlife…
If you would like to join us next time we visit North East Scotland, please email us or phone 01479 812498 to register your interest. We shall let you know as soon as further information is available.
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