Scotland continued....

3 May - My 3 days of arduous hillwalking in Mullardoch/Affric finished last night - overall, not huge numbers of birds seen, as very cold for the time of year with extensive snow cover at higher levels. Species seen included 3 Ptarmigan (3) and 2 Red Grouse (2) at higher levels, also Golden Plovers displaying (1), a Dipper on a stream at 2,200 ft, a drumming Snipe, a male Wheatear at 3,600 ft, and singing Tree Pipits and Cuckoos. Good Eagle country, but none seen (I was without bins for weight reasons!)