Highland Fling

Back home last night after a week away on a family holiday based in Aviemore. We a brilliant time up there, all the better for having some great weather - even some hot sunshine on a couple of days whilst it was raining everyday in Leics. For the most part it was family holiday first, finding new things second - the only exception being that I was absolutely intent on getting up Cairn Gorm and finally seeing the 'snow grouse'. I'm pleased to say that it was a sucessful venture with both Ptarmigan and Mountain Hare seen whilst up on the slopes by the whole family - through bins. Sadly neither ventured into camera-range. I did manage to point the camera at a few birds for record shots though. Lots of family and scenery photos to work through, plus some plants and stuff to ID later so more Highland updates to follow, but for now here's Cairn Gorm.

Stunning views from the top

The stone 'cairn' at the peak of Cairn Gorm

Cracking male Snow Bunting - a family party was milling about right at the top

Makes the wintering birds we normally see look a bit dull

This pair of Ring Ouzel were collecting food for their brood

Lots of cocky Red Grouse on the mountain too, lower down than the Ptarmigan

Me, Josh and Alex 1245m up after conquering the mountain! When we started out there was a bit of cloud cover around the peak, half way up it was pretty nippy, but by the time we were at the peak (after some lunch at the Ptarmigan restaurant) it was sunny and warm enough for Alex to ditch his coat.