Aviemore in December. (1 Viewer)

[Shane3004]

Hi fellow birders.

It's been a while since I posted here and am just looking for a little bit of advice for hopefully some new lifers.

As per title, the wife and I have booked a few nights in Aviemore between Xmas and new year. My main target is Crested Tits but it would be wonderful if I could add a few more winter species to the lifer list, Ptarmigan, Black Grouse, any divers, smew, rarer ducks etc, and obviously some other wildlife without feathers. Having looked at different options I was disheartened to see some of the prices to book workshops etc. The wife isn't a birder but likes to come along.

Is it imperative you have a guide to see any of these species or can any of the birding community recommend areas we can visit ourselves? We will have our car with us, providing we aren't snowed in ⛄️. Someone I met at Bempton Cliffs has mentioned that Loch Garten is the place for Cresties, particularly in winter.

Thanks in advance

 

[Andrew Whitehouse]

For divers, ducks etc. it's probably best to head for the Moray coast e.g. somewhere like Burghead Bay. Not sure the chances of Smew are that high, although there could be reports. The Moray Birds website is pretty helpful for recent news of things:

Recent records — Birds in Moray and Nairn

birdsinmorayandnairn.org

Of the others, I suspect Crested Tit should be quite gettable and they will come to feeders. The grouse could be a lot harder. I wouldn't go into the mountains at that time of the year unless you're fully equipped and the weather is very good, which could make Ptarmigan hard to find. Keep in mind the days will be very short in late December.

 

[meg2772]

Hi Shane, my partner and I saw crested tit at the feeders briefly at RSPB Loch Garten in December several years ago.

If you are looking for a guide I recommend Steve who leads a great day out through various habitats. My partner isn’t a birder either but very much enjoyed the day. We were very happy to see black grouse with him!

http://www.highlandwildlifesafaris.co.uk/

 

[Mono]

Have a look on the free Where to Watch Birds in Scotland app.

Where to Birdwatch

DOWNLOAD: Where to Watch Birds in Scotland, SOC's free mobile app To download the app now simply click on either button below: For the first time ever, you can now download an app to discover the best places to birdwatch around Scotland and the bird species likely to be found at these sites...

www.the-soc.org.uk

The weather will be a big factor. Between Christmas and New Year it could be mild and raining or it could be well below freezing with feet of snow on the tops. The later will rule out spotting Ptarmigan unless you are in full mountaineering kit.

 

[Shane3004]

Thanks to all for taking the time to read and reply. Greatly appreciated. 👍