Written by Josh Allan, with contributions from Ruairidh Edmonds, Alfie Stewart, Melody Macalister Hall, Theo Rans, Isla MacLennan, Elly Morgan, Isla Giangreco, Callum Fraser, Rory Anderson, Finlay Anderson, Edgar Joly, Alberto Morera, Suilven Holmes, Alder Holmes, Felix Urwin, Flynn Bunyan.
A Woodpigeon called "Pidwigeon", close-up views of Badgers, Ring Ouzels on the hills, and enough midges to keep the Swifts well fed—our 2026 Bird Camp Reunion had it all!
Friday Night: A Great Start to the Weekend
The Bird Camp Reunion got off to a fantastic start at Glenmore Campsite, with plenty of excitement as everyone arrived and headed straight out to explore. The camp was attended by 17 young people and their families from across the Highlands and further afield around Scotland. Participants included previous applicants and attendees of the BTO/SOC Bird Camp, along with other young people with a keen interest in birds and the natural world.
One of our first discoveries was an incubating Woodpigeon perched above the road, which was promptly christened "Pidwigeon", a name that somehow stuck for the rest of the weekend!
After visiting the nearby feeding station to photograph finches and other familiar birds, the group split for the evening's activities. Whilst one group enjoyed a guided bat walk around the campsite with bat expert James Bunyan from Tracks Ecology, the other travelled to the Speyside Wildlife hide for a chance to see some of Scotland's local mammals.
The journey to the hide included a brief glimpse of a Tawny Owl, setting the scene for an unforgettable evening. Guided by Harris Brooker from Speyside Wildlife, we settled into the hide with high hopes after hearing that a Scottish Wildcat had visited the previous night.
Although the elusive Wildcat didn't make an appearance, our patience was rewarded when a Badger emerged from the darkness and gave everyone superb views as it fed just outside the hide. Harris recognised it as one of the regular visitors. A second Badger appeared just as we were leaving after midnight, bringing a fitting end to a memorable first evening. As one participant summed it up: "seeing badgers up close was great!” -- Isla M. (15), Ardersier
Saturday highlights: Moths, mountains and memorable moments
Saturday morning brought one of the most popular weekend activities: checking the moth traps at Insh Marshes. Guided by local moth experts Tom Prescott and Pete Moore, everyone had the chance to get hands-on with species including Buff-tip, Poplar Hawk-moth, True Lovers Knot and Nut-tree Tussock. Several moths even found themselves perched on participants' noses for the obligatory photos!
Saturday morning brought one of the most popular weekend activities: checking the moth traps at Insh Marshes. Guided by local moth experts Tom Prescott and Pete Moore, everyone had the chance to get hands-on with species including Buff-tip, Poplar Hawk-moth, True Lovers Knot and Nut-tree Tussock. Several moths even found themselves perched on participants' noses for the obligatory photos!
After a busy morning, we enjoyed lunch at the Insh Marshes viewpoint, where we watched a variety of waders including Lapwing, Curlew and Common Snipe feeding across the reserve. From there, we walked along the footpath towards Tromie Meadow. Although it was still a little early for the spectacular display of orchids the site is known for, several of the more common species were already in flower. Soon, everyone spread out across the meadow, searching for birds, butterflies and fascinating insects.
One of the afternoon's unexpected highlights came when a Violet Oil Beetle was discovered amongst the grass, giving everyone the chance to enjoy a close look at this remarkable insect.
"My favourite moment was when the Violet Oil Beetle was found in the grass at Tromie Meadow and everybody got to see it. Thankfully the oil didn't leave any blisters!" — Josh (15), Inverness
One of the afternoon's unexpected highlights came when a Violet Oil Beetle was discovered amongst the grass, giving everyone the chance to enjoy a close look at this remarkable insect.
"My favourite moment was when the Violet Oil Beetle was found in the grass at Tromie Meadow and everybody got to see it. Thankfully the oil didn't leave any blisters!" — Josh (15), Inverness
The day's next adventure took us up to the Cairngorm Mountain car park in search of Ring Ouzels, a species many of the young people were particularly hoping to see. After an enjoyable walk on the hillside, our patience was rewarded with excellent views of these striking upland thrushes, much to everyone's delight.
“I liked the Ring Ouzel!” – Isla G. (12), Inverness
"One of my personal highlights of the camp was the opportunity to see a Ring Ouzel. I enjoyed the walk looking for them and when I saw the first one I felt satisfied and excited because this is one of the birds that I've always wanted to see. Everyone there was so nice and friendly, I had a great time." — Alberto (12), Ardross
Saturday Evening: Badgers and Bats
On Saturday evening, the groups swapped activities from the previous night, giving everyone the chance to experience both of the weekend's evening highlights.
One group returned to the Speyside Wildlife Hide for another memorable evening watching Badgers emerge under the cover of darkness. With excellent views and plenty of anticipation, it was another fantastic opportunity to observe these elusive mammals at close range.
Meanwhile, the second group headed out along the river for a walk with bat expert James as dusk settled over Glenmore. Armed with bat detectors, they listened to the distinctive echolocation calls of several species and were rewarded with sightings of Daubenton's Bat, Natterer's Bat, Common Pipistrelle and Soprano Pipistrelle flitting overhead as they hunted for insects.
“I liked the Ring Ouzel!” – Isla G. (12), Inverness
"One of my personal highlights of the camp was the opportunity to see a Ring Ouzel. I enjoyed the walk looking for them and when I saw the first one I felt satisfied and excited because this is one of the birds that I've always wanted to see. Everyone there was so nice and friendly, I had a great time." — Alberto (12), Ardross
Saturday Evening: Badgers and Bats
On Saturday evening, the groups swapped activities from the previous night, giving everyone the chance to experience both of the weekend's evening highlights.
One group returned to the Speyside Wildlife Hide for another memorable evening watching Badgers emerge under the cover of darkness. With excellent views and plenty of anticipation, it was another fantastic opportunity to observe these elusive mammals at close range.
Meanwhile, the second group headed out along the river for a walk with bat expert James as dusk settled over Glenmore. Armed with bat detectors, they listened to the distinctive echolocation calls of several species and were rewarded with sightings of Daubenton's Bat, Natterer's Bat, Common Pipistrelle and Soprano Pipistrelle flitting overhead as they hunted for insects.
Whether watching Badgers from the hide or discovering the hidden world of bats after dark, the evening provided more unforgettable wildlife experiences for everyone taking part.
Sunday: Ringing, Rare Birds and Farewells
Our final day began with an early start at Craigellachie Nature Reserve, where we were immediately treated to a spectacular sight of four Ospreys circling overhead.
A real highlight of the morning was a bird ringing demonstration led by members of the Highland Ringing Group – Johnathon Jones, Ron Graham, Alister Clunas and Thomas Plant - who generously volunteered their time to share their skills and knowledge. Throughout the session, 58 birds were ringed, giving everyone the chance to see a variety of species up close before helping to release them back into the wild. Participants also had the opportunity to practice fitting rings using a dummy wooden Knot leg, kindly loaned by the BTO. The morning provided a fascinating insight into the world of bird ringing and how this supports bird conservation and research.
Sunday: Ringing, Rare Birds and Farewells
Our final day began with an early start at Craigellachie Nature Reserve, where we were immediately treated to a spectacular sight of four Ospreys circling overhead.
A real highlight of the morning was a bird ringing demonstration led by members of the Highland Ringing Group – Johnathon Jones, Ron Graham, Alister Clunas and Thomas Plant - who generously volunteered their time to share their skills and knowledge. Throughout the session, 58 birds were ringed, giving everyone the chance to see a variety of species up close before helping to release them back into the wild. Participants also had the opportunity to practice fitting rings using a dummy wooden Knot leg, kindly loaned by the BTO. The morning provided a fascinating insight into the world of bird ringing and how this supports bird conservation and research.
“My favourite part was seeing all the people I either haven’t met or haven’t seen in ages! I also enjoyed watching the bird ringing and getting to hold all the little birdies. Also seeing so many fun moths was amazing.” — Melody (13), Inverness
There was plenty of birdwatching too, with excitement running high as we found some of the reserve's special breeding birds, including Pied Flycatcher, Spotted Flycatcher, Wood Warbler, Tree Pipit and a nesting Little Grebe.
"My favourite part of the weekend was the excitement of seeing the Pied Flycatcher with all my birding friends. It was a lifer for a lot of us and great to share the moment with everyone else." — Isla M. (15), Ardersier
There was plenty of birdwatching too, with excitement running high as we found some of the reserve's special breeding birds, including Pied Flycatcher, Spotted Flycatcher, Wood Warbler, Tree Pipit and a nesting Little Grebe.
"My favourite part of the weekend was the excitement of seeing the Pied Flycatcher with all my birding friends. It was a lifer for a lot of us and great to share the moment with everyone else." — Isla M. (15), Ardersier
"One of my favourite parts of the reunion was meeting everyone and making new friends. I loved seeing the Pied Flycatchers and Wood Warblers, even though the flycatchers kept hiding from me!" — Theo (13), East Lothian
After packing up camp, those with longer journeys began making their way home, while the rest of the group travelled to Grantown-on-Spey to visit Nick Baker's Ant Farm. Almost as soon as we arrived, we were treated to the sight of a Snakefly which was very exciting for everyone, including Nick, as it was the first one he had seen in his garden! Nick gave us a fascinating introduction to his project breeding wood ants for release within the Cairngorms National Park, and his passion and enthusiasm for the work was truly infectious.
After packing up camp, those with longer journeys began making their way home, while the rest of the group travelled to Grantown-on-Spey to visit Nick Baker's Ant Farm. Almost as soon as we arrived, we were treated to the sight of a Snakefly which was very exciting for everyone, including Nick, as it was the first one he had seen in his garden! Nick gave us a fascinating introduction to his project breeding wood ants for release within the Cairngorms National Park, and his passion and enthusiasm for the work was truly infectious.
As the weekend drew to a close, it was clear that the wildlife was only part of what had made the camp such a success. New friendships had been formed, old ones rekindled, and everyone left inspired to continue exploring and conserving Scotland's incredible wildlife.
"My favourite part was meeting some new people and seeing old friends." — Alfie (14), Midlothian
"My favourite part of the trip was meeting other young birders again as well as making new friends. It was great to see the Pied Flycatchers coming to their nest as well as seeing the oil beetle, which was really cool." — Finlay (13), Aberdeenshire
"It was nice to see everyone again and make some new friends. My favourite part was going out in the morning to try and find the beavers. Even though we didn't see one, it was still a great weekend, especially seeing the badgers, moths and ants!" — Ruairidh (13), Black Isle
"My favourite moment was when lots of us went up the river looking for beavers. Even though we didn't see any, it was still extremely fun because we saw a Spotted Flycatcher, which was a fantastic first for me." — Suilven (11), Ardnamurchan
More than anything, the reunion was about bringing together young people who share a passion for wildlife. Whether someone was celebrating their first Ring Ouzel, holding a bird for the first time during ringing, or simply catching up with friends made at previous Bird Camps, everyone went home with memories to last long after the tents came down.
"My favourite part was meeting new people and meeting others who I hadn't seen in a while. I also loved the moth trapping where we saw some amazing moths." – Callum (14), Edinburgh
A huge thank you goes to the members of the Highland Ringing Group and Butterfly Conservation for giving their time; to James Bunyan for sharing his knowledge about bats and Nick Baker for welcoming us to his ant project. We are grateful to the Highland Branch of the SOC for providing us with funding to support our visit to the Speyside Animal Hide, and to everyone else who helped make the Bird Camp Reunion such a memorable weekend. We can't wait for the next one!
"My favourite part was meeting some new people and seeing old friends." — Alfie (14), Midlothian
"My favourite part of the trip was meeting other young birders again as well as making new friends. It was great to see the Pied Flycatchers coming to their nest as well as seeing the oil beetle, which was really cool." — Finlay (13), Aberdeenshire
"It was nice to see everyone again and make some new friends. My favourite part was going out in the morning to try and find the beavers. Even though we didn't see one, it was still a great weekend, especially seeing the badgers, moths and ants!" — Ruairidh (13), Black Isle
"My favourite moment was when lots of us went up the river looking for beavers. Even though we didn't see any, it was still extremely fun because we saw a Spotted Flycatcher, which was a fantastic first for me." — Suilven (11), Ardnamurchan
More than anything, the reunion was about bringing together young people who share a passion for wildlife. Whether someone was celebrating their first Ring Ouzel, holding a bird for the first time during ringing, or simply catching up with friends made at previous Bird Camps, everyone went home with memories to last long after the tents came down.
"My favourite part was meeting new people and meeting others who I hadn't seen in a while. I also loved the moth trapping where we saw some amazing moths." – Callum (14), Edinburgh
A huge thank you goes to the members of the Highland Ringing Group and Butterfly Conservation for giving their time; to James Bunyan for sharing his knowledge about bats and Nick Baker for welcoming us to his ant project. We are grateful to the Highland Branch of the SOC for providing us with funding to support our visit to the Speyside Animal Hide, and to everyone else who helped make the Bird Camp Reunion such a memorable weekend. We can't wait for the next one!
Species List
Birds
Barn Owl
Black Headed Gull
Blackbird
Blue Tit
Bullfinch
Buzzard
Carrion Crow
Chaffinch
Chiffchaff
Coal Tit
Common Sandpiper
Crossbill
Cuckoo
Dipper
Goldcrest
Goldeneye
Goldfinch
Goosander
Great Northern Diver
Great Spotted Woodpecker
Great Tit
Grey Wagtail
Herring Gull
House Martin
Jackdaw
Kestrel
Lapwing
Little Grebe
Long-Tailed Tit
Mallard
Meadow Pipit
Mistle Thrush
Osprey
Oystercatcher
Pied Flycatcher
Pied Wagtail
Ring Ouzel
Robin
Siskin
Snipe
Song Thrush
Spotted Flycatcher
Swallow
Swift
Tawny Owl
Treecreeper
Wheatear
Willow Warbler
Wood Warbler
Woodcock
Woodpigeon
Wren
Mammals
Badger
Beaver
Red Deer
Red Squirrel
Wood mouse
Bats
Common Pipistrelle
Daubentons
Natterers
Soprano Pipestrelle
Amphibians
Common Toad
Insects
Moths
Poplar Hawk Moth
Broken Barred carpet
Brimstone
The Saxon
Ceraphin
Birch Mocha
Peppered Moth
Early Thorn
Narrow-winged Pug
White ermine
Clouded Bordered Brindle
Pale Prominent
Nut Tree Tussock
Glaucous Shears
Rustic Shoulder Knot
Lute String sp.
Iron Prominent
Brown Rustic
Pebble Pominent
Dark Brocade
Longhorn (Nematopagan adansontella)
Autumn Green Carpet
Clouded Border
Scalloped Hazel
Scalloped Hook Tip
Peacock
Broom
Grey Birch
Valerian Pug
Grey Pug
Lunar Thorn
Poplar Lutestring
Red Twin-spot carpet
Miller
Buff tip
Speedwell Longhorn Moth
True Lovers Knot
Other insects
Buff tip Bee
Formica Lemani
Four Spotted Chaser
Narrow Headed Ant\Hairy Scottish Ant
Oak Eggar Moth Caterpillar
Orange Tip Butterfly
Snake Fly
Violet Oil Beetle
RSS Feed
