Scotland 11-15 May 2018

A first Munroing visit of the season with a day at Scottish Photography hides as a bonus. Fine weather for the hides near Dumfries and a packed day - Kingfishers including the diving pool, Cuckoo (this bird has returned from Africa for the 5th successive year) and a female Adder - then daylight Badgers in the evening. Many photos to sort! I linked up with Matt and Jen for the first Munros of the season (they have both completed but kindly agreed to accompany me on my ongoing quest as they love the mountains). First day was Beinn Mhanach above Bridge of Orchy - clouding over and wet late afternoon - very good views of a Ptarmigan which must have had a mate on a nest nearby. Then to Kintail - The Saddle and Sgurr na Sgine followed by Beinn Fhada - fantastic weather, peace and quiet, expansive views, and wildlife including singing Cuckoos, Wheatears, and on the Beinn Fhada plateau displaying Golden Plovers and Dunlin. On the last day my solo ascent of Sgurr a Mhaoraich was enlivened by a close encounter with a subadult Golden Eagle on the summit ridge, and 2 singing Ring Ouzels on the nearby boulders. Altogether a memorable weekend of stunning views. Last but not least, the Speyside Wildlife mammal watching hide has floodlights that illuminate after dark, and from 10pm four Badgers fed unconcernedly at close quarters with a brief visit from a Pine Marten being the icing on the cake.