The bagpipes (and haggis) await!

I went on my first visit to Loch Garten in the middle of February this year.  What glorious place but other than a few Goldeneye virtually bridless. The weather was extremely mild but the RSPB (or their contractors) were very busy in pulling down the visitor centre. Yes I am happy to go - just hope the trip goes ahead

 Thanks Chris. 

If the trip goes ahead I hope you will be on board. 

You’ve got a point about Loch Garten. The nesting ospreys are a ‘given’, but otherwise it’s a ‘feast or famine’ sort of place.  Last time, some also got crested tit, tree pipit, wood warbler - all briefly - plus common sandpiper and goldeneye but not a lot else. Maybe we were too early.

I’m pretty sure the walks are laid out to keep punters as far away from capercaillies as possible!  

Ospreys aren’t much of a magnet nowadays for experienced birders, but I think the beginners in the party appreciated making the ‘ pilgrimage’ to such a legendary destination. And the views were very good. 

However, there is the option of ditching the Loch Garten trip in favour of somewhere else. 

 Around the hotel itself, there are plenty of trails with a range of  superb habitats, and Insh Marshes is less than three miles away. Just birding the Kingussie locality  would more than fill up the time.   
 

Having been earlier this I think I would be interested
I certainly loved Loch Garten even though we hardly saw a bird

Obviously Jackie and I will go again.

I am also interested.

regards John

I would be interested (x2).