December started off with a bang – a male smew in eclipse plumage, was spotted on the loch swimming close to the hide.  An exciting sighting indeed!

Chaffinches and coal tits are still visiting the feeding station in good numbers and feasting from the food provided in the feeding station. The mild weather has given the birds a window of opportunity to be better prepared for the cold.

It’s not just birds that are profiting from this window, even red squirrels are quickly taking advantage of the warmer weather and stocking up on peanuts.

On the loch there are still good numbers of widgeon, tufted duck and goldeneye. Flocks of pink-footed geese are still visiting the loch to rest. Tawny owls can be heard in the evenings hooting away in the woodland near the osprey nest. Signs of recent beaver activity have been spotted close to the hides.

Why not come and see for yourselves what’s around at the moment? The visitor centre is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10.30am-4pm and the hides and woodland trail are accessible 24/7.

Chris Cachia Zammit