Lack of Chat

Whinchat have been becoming scarce and more & more difficult to find with each passing year. Loch Ardinning, just north of Glasgow has always been a good spot although even here they have become scarce. Despite an extensive search this morning I could not find any at all. It is always sad to witness the decline in a species but this is what we are faced with here. Hopefully, they can recover.

On a more positive note Cuckoos still appear to be plentiful with several calling. Willow Warblers that I think have been comparatively scarce this year were in abundance:

Willow Warbler - Endrick Mouth

Another Chat that has been in steep decline, possible due to hard winters, is the Stonechat. I managed to find 1 today for the yearlist.

Roe Deer- Loch Ardinning

Mute Swan with 4 Cygnets - Loch Ardinning

Moving on to Endrick Mouth, I walked right out to the end of Ring Point. Best here were 2 Osprey, Grasshopper Warbler, Garden Warbler and Spotted Flycatcher.

The downside was 2 aggressive dogs, the same two as last year. Is it too much to ask to have a day in the countryside without being bothered by bloody dogs. The best of it is they were with an owner who the dogs simply ignore. "Oh she'll not bite" I don't bloody care I simply want to be left in peace. If you can't control the bloody thing, KEEP IT ON A LEAD!!!!!!