Harlequin on the River Don.......

Feb 7 - A lengthy and tiring, but enjoyable, day trip north of the Border for the long-staying immature drake Harlequin on the River Don. I saw the sun rise from the plane, and we were in Aberdeen by 8.15. After some initial confusion in the roadworks, I found my way to Seaton Park and the river, and joined a small group of birders who had located the duck upstream, with its distinctive brown plumage with a blue sheen, white facial markings and active diving in the rough water. It then moved to the Papermill Drive rapids, where it gave much better views despite the local canoeing classes (being a weekend). Also on the river, 2 pairs of Goosander and 30+ Goldeneye.

I had time for a visit to Girdleness headland, south of Aberdeen harbour, and here the highlight was a group of 25+ Purple Sandpipers, seen at fairly close quarters on the rocks below the lighthouse. One of my favourite waders.....also seen a few Turnstones, good numbers of Oystercatchers, Redshank and Curlew. 200-300 Eider were bobbing in the waters between the harbour and the point. Quite a few Guillemots also seen in flight. Home at 8.20pm! Year list up to 130.