Lochlee in Glenesk

The morning began with a misty departure at 06:30 for Lochlee in Glenesk, the temperature a chilly 4 degrees Celsius. As the drive progressed inland, the temperature continued to drop, reaching zero. Beyond Edzell, the sun finally broke through, illuminating the north-facing slopes of Glenesk. However, the air remained cool until reaching Invermark. A subsequent walk upstream along the riverside track brought a welcome warmth, accompanied by the songs of Song Thrushes.

At the lochside, the sun bathed the water and the encompassing hills in light, yet a strange stillness prevailed, broken only by the calls of a few Lapwings. As the sun ascended further, the natural world gradually stirred, revealing its inhabitants. The photographs below document the majority of the avian species anticipated for this trip. Some images serve primarily as records of observed species, particularly those birds that had recently arrived this week following their long migrations.

Lochlee from east end

One of fifteen Redwings seen at Invermark, probably the latest I've seen this species

Male Wheatear

Female Wheatear, distant

Song Thrush in the lochside churchyard

Meadow Pipit

Grey Wagtail at the Invermark bridge

Ring Ouzel male, 100 metres into the sunlight

Pied Wagtail

Oystercatcher

Red-legged Partridge, a non-native introduction, primarily released to be shot "for fun"

Peacock Butterfly, a butterfly that has over-wintered as an adult, showing signs of wear

Lochlee midpoint looking towards Inchgrundle at the west end

This one is open for debate, first Garden Birdwatch said it was too early for Green-veined White, then the same for Small White and again for Large White. I'm sure it's a Small White.