A settled spell of light winds and dry conditions began today. Perfect conditions to get high in the Cairngorms and check out the Ptarmigan. The snow we had last weekend has all but been washed away with the warmer temperatures and heavy rain of Tuesday. Any snow that remained was frozen solid after below freezing temperatures last night.
A big part of wildlife photography in the mountains is keeping a check on recent weather, especially wind direction and strength. These factors will influence me where to seek out Cairngorms wildlife. Because we are now into winter the Ptarmigan and Hares have almost completely changed into their white camouflaged coats. Therefore when we have limited snow on the ground is also another criteria on where to search.
It was lovely in the bright sunshine and blue skies. I was soon able to spot around 12 pairs of Ptarmigan and two flocks of around 10-20 Snow Buntings. Brilliant. The cloud rolled in in the afternoon. To round a great day off nicely a beautiful Mountain Hare popped out right in front of me. I must have disturbed her sleep. She stood there half asleep and yawned. I have never seen a Hare walk so slowly, for e metres then sit and have another yawn. Brilliant.
A grand day out and welcome sunshine.
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