After a leisurely start, we repaired to the Hotel to use the WiFi connection. Pam’s connection caused her a few problems, tractor working too slowly and haphazardly ! Therefore it was mid morning by the time we left for Aviemore. The tops were heavily snow covered but relatively clear of cloud which changed our plans. After a stop at the Glen More shop to buy the last postcards, we parked at Coire na Coiste to scan the slopes.Very cold......Pam luckily saw a female Ring Ouzel fly on to a scree area which I managed to get on to as it flew far away, never to be seen again. No sign of any Ptarmigan. A Raven flew through, no other birdlife.
To get warm, we drove to the upper car park, no birds at all there so back to Coire na Coiste for another barren scan and lunch.
Inchriach Alpine Plant Centre is not as good as when Jack Drake was alive but still worth a visit for the beauty of the gardens which have a brook running through, edged with yellow arum lilies, erythronium, drumstick Primulas and many other waterside plants. Pam took this photo.
After a chat with the owner, choosing a few plants, the ‘Potting Shed’ called. That’s what they call their small cafe which has an extension overlooking a bird feeding area. Here there is a window bench table with high stools. The feeding area is very close and massive, huge feeders mounted on tree stumps, topped with lumps of fat. Moistly Chaffinches, a few Coal, Blue and Great Tits. Three Red Squirrels arrived but one very territorial beast chased the others off. They have good home-made cakes too........
Glen Feshie is usually reserved for the last day. Uath Lochan, no birds at all. A possible Spotted Flycatcher calling nearby on the road up the Glen but not seen. A small flock of Crossbills flew at treetop height but didn’t stop, We were alerted by their calls. Probably Common again.
Loch Inch brought our third sighting of Goosander for the trip, we often see none. A pair showed at Carrbridge on Tuesday morning but not since.
A last shop at Tesco in Aviemore for milk and rolls before returning to the warmth and comfort of Silver Birch.
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