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Natural Connections

Modern life in Scotland is increasingly busy. The connections our ancestors had with nature and the land are being lost. As leisure time shrinks, or is filled with hi-tech experiences, opportunities to experience nature become fewer. And yet it is possible to connect with nature on a day to day basis. All around us, the great web of life continues to hold its shape, and nature continues its eternal cycles. Keep looking, listening, smelling, touching - and keep experiencing natural connections.

Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Highlight of a belated WeBS count in Greenock today was a single Goldeneye on Murdieston Dam. The species, formally regular there is now less than annual. A little later, a very wet Lunderston Bay held over fifty Sandwich Terns and twenty Greenfinches.

Tuesday, August 18, 2026

Few birds were active when I walked through Pollokshaws this afternoon. Swifts are still being reported from north Glasgow, but I haven't had one here in the south for over a week. 

Monday, August 17, 2026

An hour in the marsh hide at Baron's Haugh followed by a wander around the reserve allowed me to compile a list totalling 34 species. Best were Greenshank, Green Sandpiper and Dunlin.  

Sunday, August 16, 2026

There was little time for birding during a short stop at the Livingston Designer Outlets today. However a quick walk along the River Almond produced sightings of Dipper, Grey Wagtail and Mallard.  

Saturday, August 15, 2026

Only typical village birds such as Collared Dove and Jackdaw were present when I visited Milton of Campsie this afternoon. 

Friday, August 14, 2026

A wander round Newlands Park confirmed what I had found elsewhere this month - that birds, and especially the smaller passerines are virtually invisible. Presumably this is due to the need to protect young and to undergo moult. Ironic really when one considers that their populations are probably at their peak right now, immediately after the breeding season.  

Thursday, August 13, 2026

A Grey Wagtail was at its usual place under Shaw Bridge. A Brown Rat was running along the path there.