Scotland and Lochwinnoch

Went for a long weekend to visit my brother who still lives in the place of our birth, Milngavie is a small town, although considerably larger than i remember it. It marks the start of the West Highland Way and as i sat in the local coffee shop, i watched many a brave traveller embark on this journey, starting with a photograph underneath the signpost or by the monument that marks it's beginning.
But on to my first walk around the local area, a rather more gentle but nonetheless enjoyable pursuit. Spotted a Grey Heron fishing on the Allander river which runs through the town.
















There were plenty of views of the local Dipper and Grey Wagtail population to be had














plenty of Warblers about, a couple of Blackcaps were the most notable as this bird is a bit of a bogey for me, i have great difficulty spotting it.

Barn Owls are easier to spot when you have a pet one








Spent the sunday afternoon at Lochwinnoch RSPB and in the visitors centre, first thing i saw was this male Redpoll eating rather lazily from the feeder


and the female looking a bit more laid back






Siskins were also a popular attraction




And the usual Blue Tit and a broody Starling









I then went for a walk around the reserve and was stopped in my tracks by a reeling Grasshopper Warbler, the first time i have heard one but still not seen one, furtive little blighters

Willow Warblers are a lot easier

but it capped of a superb day.







My last full day was spent at the sea life centre at Balloch where you don't expect to see much in the way of bird life but you never know what you will discover









Frank