Ptarmigan on Cairngorm

[Hugh Harrop]

Hi

Am spending a week in the Spey Valley in December with another photographer and we're hoping to photograph Ptarmigan. Are the Cairngorm corries (esp. the Sneachda) currently holding birds? And with our spouses currently pregnant what's the deal with taking the 'train' to the top of the mountain and getting out to explore - is there a way around this?

Cheers

Hugh

[Sandra (Taylor)]

You aren't allowed to get out at the top and go onto the mountain. You either admire the view from the terrace there or you walk up from the bottom! We had good views of ptarmigan from the Pass of the Cattle if you have time to drive there during your stay. PM me and I'll give you exact location, although it is widely known.

Sandra

[tom mckinney]

Hi Hugh,

In the tourist high season you can't leave the funicular railway station (The old Ptarmigan Cafe), but I seem to remember reading that in the winter you can leave the building. Don't take my word for it though.

Tom

[ta brandreth]

Hi Hugh,

In the tourist high season you can't leave the funicular railway station (The old Ptarmigan Cafe), but I seem to remember reading that in the winter you can leave the building. Don't take my word for it though.

Tom
How long as this been going on??
You certainly used to be able to wander(probably health and safety, it can get some what inclement!!).
Dont forget to check out the Snowbunting's, never dipped yet when the Rheindeer get fed!!
I have had much better results at the Applecross site -pm for details!

[Eagle]

Hugh

I've sent you a pm suggesting you contact a local guide whose a member of BF
who showed me where Ptarmigan are...cant remember the name of the corrie...

hope this helps