Friday 14 November 2008

Merlin and Hare

We based ourselves in the north Rhinns today. The weather held good and although there was cloud the light improved as we progressed. At the back end of  Machir Bay we watched Chough, Wigeon, Teal, Oystercatcher, Linnet and Twite. Unfortunately no Snowbuntings this time. We enjoyed three Hare - running and then stopping - just amazing to see.
Plenty of gulls, and at Saligo, Gannets and a Great Northern Diver passed. We the had the wonderful experience of watching male Merlin hunting  - unsuccesfully - although pipits and finches did explode from every direction.  A male Hen Harrier delighted us at Sanaig  and along the way back to Port Charlotte in the open land a family of Roe Deer presented themselves perfectly for a photo opportunity!