Cold weather migrants, a small party of Whooper Swans stopped off to feed in one of the shallow bays on the local loch for a few hours before moving on. The cold weather which gripped the Highlands for the latter half of December had forced them to look for less harsh wintering grounds further south.

Following a heavy snowfall the garden bird feeders were very busy. The light was pleasantly diffused and reflected by the lying snow creating ideal conditions for photography.

Robin

Dunnock

A male Blackbird digs through the snow to reach invertebrates hidden in the leaf litter below. Many more of these birds than usual have stayed to winter in the local area. They are most likely continental immigrants that stayed following the heavy autumn thrush migration.

The local Pine Martens turn up at the door each evening for a free handout. Clad in their thick winter coats they are well protected in the freezing conditions.