Trips inland and to the coast

Spent a lovely afternoon exploring the beaches and cliffs around Cullen. The main target species, Stonechat, wasn't found. Instead had to be content with a suite of common birds, an accompanying cast of butterflies and moths, breeding evidence for plenty of the bird species and a fascinating backdrop of spectacular rock formations and luxuriant under-cliff vegetation. Birding highlights included two Kestrels hunting together, two Eider females with ducklings, a pair of Oystercatchers shepherding two fluffy young, Yellowhammer, Whitethroat and House Sparrow carrying food and a Fulmar patrolling overhead. 

The morning was spent in and around Carbach. Again the target species (Short-eared Owl and Hen Harrier) weren't found, although three juvenile Peregrines almost made up for that. Other upland birds included Wheatear, Common Gull, Lapwing and Oystercatcher. At the Grouse Hotel, House Martins were feeding young and a juvenile Spotted flycatcher rasped nearby. 

Heading back to the coast, mainly lowland birds such as Skylark, Rook, Magpie, Red-legged Partridge, Linnet and Stock Dove appeared.