Still plenty of daylight left after finishing work in Dumfries, so headed to Threave Castle to check out the Osprey nest there. On arrival, both birds were clearly visible on top of the nest. Later, one was soaring casually above the wood. The nest is visible from many points around the reserve but the birds don't seem concerned by the presence of people. The fact that the nest tree is on an island probably helps. Other birds in the area included dozens of Willow Warblers, two Ravens (dwarfing the nearby Jackdaws), a pair of Shovelers and a really encouraging selection of farmland birds including Oystercatcher, Curlew and Swallow.
Next stop was the RSPB reserve at Ken-Dee Marshes. On the way, two Stock Doves flew across the road. At the reserve, best records were two Nuthatches (one coming to feeders in front of one of the hides), another pair of Shovelers (111), displaying Lapwings, mating Redshanks, a Great spotted Woodpecker and a Red Squirrel.
Heading home, two Red Kites (112) gave fantastic views at Mossdale. Today's walking total: 11,649.

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