A Lochore Meadows Walk

 We took a stroll around our Loch on Wednesday, so we were out a while, with a stop at the visitor centre for a coffee and to buy a butty as we hadn't planned to be out as long as we were!

It was a dullish day at first and a bit rainy so we stopped at the hide to let the drizzle clear a bit and see what was about. Sadly the first thing we saw was that some scumbags had made a fire on the bench and burnt through the wooden seating, there was just enough space for the two of us at either end.

The reeds on the pools are still quite high, so visibility across to the scrape is limited, but there were lots of Teal and Mallard, but not much else could be seen. After we left the hide a load of Redwing were seen along the pathway to the Loch, but very flighty, sadly not staying put for a photo.

Unlike the Mute Swans at the Loch itself:

Some Pink-footed Geese in the fields,

along with Greylag Geese.

Always plenty of Black-headed Gulls by the visitor centre

as well as Pied Wagtails

and Jackdaw.

Away from the visitor centre on our way back a couple of Wren were zooming around the Loch edge.

The local rowing team were out, the cox wanting them to get on with it by the look of it!

Then in the large pool at the Kelty end of the Loch a couple of Whooper Swans were found

along with some Wigeon. Another lovely walk with loads to see, just a few minutes from our front door! 

Dipper on the River Ardle (Kirkmichael)

 After our stay in Pitlochry, we went to visit some old friends (they're not that old, same age as us!!) in the village of Kirkmichael, on the way home.

As we drove into the village Tina spotted a Dipper on the river, so it would have been rude not to  stop!

Then on to Sharon and Stu's where a lovely afternoon was had, chatting and watching Red Squirrel in the garden, plus loads of birds and Deer in the neighbouring field.

The Hermitage

 We spent a couple of days in Pitlochry, just chilling out after a few very hectic weeks. We visited The Hermitage, National Trust Scotland, Very few birds were seen, but it was a beautiful day and we did see some leaping Salmon, so here's some scenery!