Forfar Loch, Balgavies, Montrose Basin and Arbroath

As I'd fallen behind in updating this blog I've added various photos from Forfar, Montrose and Arbroath. As well as the birds shown I also managed to get a rare view of a Water Rail at Balgavies, these secretive birds skulk in the reedbeds but at this time of year the reeds have died back and with patience and luck you might see one.

(Left clicking on the first photo of an entry opens the photo and the rest in the entry in Lightroom, or is it Lightbox where you can click through them, click the X button to return to the blog main page)

Birds around Arbroath on Wednesday 13th March

Red-breasted Merganser at Whiting Ness, Arbroath

Common Ringed Plover at Victoria Park, Arbroath

A sleeping Black-headed Gull with   rings.

Redshank in flight at Victoria Park.

The first Lesser black-backed Gull I've seen this year.

A sad looking Turnstone at Victoria Park.

Tree Sparrows and Yellowhammer

Tree Sparrows on the feeders at Montrose Basin Centre, ans one of the many Goldfinches.

One of two Yellowhammers in my front garden, the first time they've ventured away from the more secluded back garden.

Forfar Loch on Tuesday March 12th

Female Bullfinch

Male Bullfinch

Cormorant landing in the Dean Water at the A90 end of Forfar Loch.

The same bird started to feed in the Dean within metres of me before making its way into the Loch.

One of three pairs of Gadwall seen on the Loch.

A single Great Crested Grebe at the west end of the Loch.

This pair of Great Crested Grebes were starting their courtship display but not the full blown thing yet. These are at the east end and in the middle of the Loch hence the photo quality on a dull day.

One of four Long-tailed Tits near the leisure centre.

A Grey Heron hunting on the Loch.