Today's outing to the Mar Lodge NTS estate was expertly led by Shiala Rao. The walk took us up through regenerating mixed woodland on a hillside previously dominated by Heather. Birds near the start (and end) of the walk included singing Willow Warbler, Chaffinch, Siskin, Redstart and Tree Pipit. A Cuckoo, a Pheasant and two Oystercatchers called from across the glen. An ant nest (species unknown) was heaving with activity. Interesting plants included Bog Myrtle, Petty Whin, Round-leaved Sundew, Dog Violet, Common Butterwort and Bog Beacon. As the trees thinned out, birds such as Meadow Pipit and Stonechat appeared. Further still, the ground flora began to be dominated by lichens, mosses, Deergrass and clubmosses. From the summit we had good views of an adult White-tailed Eagle being mobbed by a male Hen Harrier. Heading back down to the forest we heard or saw Curlew, Siskin, Willow Warbler, Meadow Pipit, Lesser Redpoll and Crossbill, before Redstart and Tree Pipit song began again. A passing raptor proved to be an Osprey. Birds encountered when we reached the floor of the strath (Strathdee or Upper Deeside) included Common Gull, Swallow, House Martin, Woodpigeon and Goldfinch.