While I was a bit taken aback by this, there was no way I was going to turn down the chance to photograph cresties and have my first sighting of a Pine Martin. It was 5. True enough we had a clear run but I had to make do with a bog-standard bacon bun at Gretna services.
As soon as peanuts were loaded into a feeder we were surrounded by cresties β landing on prepared posts within a few feet of us, giving brilliant views and great photo opportunities.
We spent about four hours there in the snow and cold but at least it was bright and not raining. The car park is at about ft and has a real alpine feel to it. Surrounded by snow covered mountains and happy skiers, it was difficult to believe we were still in the UK. As soon as we pulled up we could see the flock of Snow Buntings and a couple of photographers enjoying close views of this hardy little bunting. We spent about an hour there, occasionally putting out a handful of seed to bring them back within range.
In winter plumage male and female are quite similar though the males are generally whiter. Back to blog. Last updated on: 13 April All blogs.
