The forecast was for showers but the day dawned dry and produced some warm sunny spells. High tide was at 11.30 so was in our favour for a change.
We headed straight to Nairn Harbour. There was a roost of Redshanks and Turnstones on the east pier, offshore there were Gannets, Herring Gulls, Black-headed Gulls, and a Kittiwake was noted bathing at the mouth of the river. A single seal was seen near the harbour mouth. On the dunes to the east of the harbour, two Grey Plovers were seen, one in summer plumage. One dead Guillemot was seen on the beach near the harbour.
Next we went to Nairn Golf Course to see if the Brent Geese had arrived. Sadly, none were seen although Red-breasted Merganser were noted offshore.
At Loch Flemington we were greeted by three juvenile Mute Swans on the grassy area next to the passing place. Coot, Moorhen, and Little Grebe were seen on the loch but few ducks were present. An exciting find of a parasol mushroom was made and identified with the naturalist app.
A short stop at Ardersier produced Wigeon, Red-breasted Merganser and Sandwich Terns. A large roost of Curlews was seen in a bay just west of the burn.
At Alturlie Bay the tide was receding and the birds were taking advantage of the exposed inter-tidal area. The light was behind us and it was heaving with birds. Excellent views of Greylags, Wigeons and Lapwings.
We walked up to the pools to find good numbers of Teals, as well as Grey Herons. On the raptor front there was a Buzzard and overflying Osprey and Red Kite. A single Magpie appeared briefly.
A very enjoyable morning with 52 species.
Thanks to Fiona, Freydis, Nigel and Angus.
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