Birds around Pollokshaws today included Moorhen, Grey Heron, Mallard and a tit flock consisting of mainly Long-tailed Tits. Lesser Black-backed Gulls were noticeably scarcer than of late (presumably getting ready to depart for the winter) and no Magpies were seen (presumably moulting).  

On a very rainy day, a Chiffchaff lifted the spirits as it sang from cover near Hairmyers Hospital in East Kilbride.

Today's walk was along the minor road from Ardullie to Alness. Birds along the way were unremarkable, although I was pleasantly surprised to hear Linnet and many Chichaff calls. Interesting plants included a smooth. grey pelt Lichen and a Wintergreen species (possibly Pyrola Media). Saddest sight of the day was the cottage garden at Ardullie with Apple and Plum trees laden with fruit but apparently no-one to enjoy them. 

Red Kite, Jay, Sweet Woodruff, Potato, Bay Cup, Rain rain rain.  

 Jay, Red Kite, Raven, Linnet, Skylark, Angel's Wings

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Today was the first of five days of walking to complete the Great Glen Way and start on the John o' Groats Way. What turned out to be a twenty mile walk from Drumnadrochit to Inverness was notable for the variety and number of fungi present. Birds along the way included Jay, Crossbill, Buzzard and Dipper. Meadow Pipits were present on the upland sections and Chiffchaffs (including some singing birds) were regularly noted. One highlight was a lunch stop at the Abriachan Eco Cafe and Campsite.