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Message: <blockquote data-quote="choughed2bits" data-source="post: 1540556" data-attributes="member: 58712">Been a bit lax of late with keeping this updated. But have been away offshore for a couple of days and then away in Aviemore for the weekend. Last weekend the swallows who had been nesting above our door suffered a bit of a set back when their next collapsed, along with all four of their young. We worked desperately hard to chase of cats in the area, but to no avail. Two were lost on the first day (probably to cats). But two remained on the door step, which the parents continued to feed for about a day or so. Sadly by day two, one more fledged and was promptly eaten by a Herring Gull and then the last was taken by a neighbourhood tom. When i went offshore i thought that would be the last of them for this year, but i am pleased to report that the swallows started building a nest again!One week on the nest is complete (and considerably more bulky and moist looking than their last effort,) so here's hoping it lasts the pace. The swallows have had plenty peace and quiet to do their own thing over the last week or so, and the next few weekends we won't be around much to trouble them so they should get all the quiet to raise a new brood. No idea if they have laid eggs or not yet tho. Am a tad apprehensive about checking.Anyway, other than that was over in aviemore at the weekend, primarily to visit a hide to see Badgers and Pine Marten. Glad to say all the furry forest creatures arrived to plan and put on an amazing show. Also did some birding around rothiemurchus estate and got some great views of crested tit, spotted flycatcher, tree pipit and wood warbler. Also managed to get ptarmigan on the yearlist too (without having to go yomping into the hills) from the ski centre car park. Anyway, that was all well and good, but nothing new to report locally other than the swallow update. Will keep you posted on progress in the coming weeks. Here's hoping they get one successful brood this year. Happy birding, Kev T</blockquote>

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