Early spring is a glorious time to enjoy the wildlife of the Scottish Highlands. Our Speyside Spring birding tour is at a time when many of the resident species are beginning their breeding routines and summer migrants are starting to arrive. In particular, our tour is timed to coincide with the lekking of Black Grouse and aerial acrobatics of displaying raptors. This is also a time when coastal bays can hold extensive flocks of migrating wildfowl and secluded lochs resound to the haunting calls of displaying divers. Add to this the magical atmosphere of the tracts of native Caledonian forests, dramatic mountain vistas and wide open skies and the gushing waters of the mighty River Spey and its many tributaries for an unforgettable experience.
Over the next few days, we will visit a wide range of sites and habitats to get the very best from the Highlands in spring. The RSPB reserve at Abernethy is just down the road and here breeding Osprey will have returned, and the loch will host displaying Common Goldeneye and maybe Goosander. Early Common Sandpiper could be back and, in the forests, here, we will search for flocks of crossbills that sometimes include three species! Crested Tits are busy in the pines and Red Squirrel can also be seen. Lochs and Glens such as the grand Findhorn Valley, secluded Strath Conon and sparkling Loch Ruthven offer wonderful birding opportunities and the mighty Golden Eagle is a key target, Hen Harrier, Merlin, Peregrine, Raven and Common Buzzard also ride the mountain up-draughts and along gushing rivers Dipper and Grey Wagtail can be seen. Red Grouse frequent the moorland areas and lochs support breeding Red and Black-throated Divers in breeding plumage. Perhaps a White-tailed Eagle or breeding plumaged Slavonian Grebe might be seen, and Mountain Hare are often observed by the roadside.
Along the Moray coast, bays and harbours are good places for passage ducks and grebes. Common and Velvet Scoter, Great Northern Diver, Black Guillemot, Long-tailed Duck, Scaup and Red-breasted Merganser can be found while Purple Sandpipers frequent rocky outcrops and both Glaucous and Iceland Gulls are sometimes noted around the fish quays. In recent years, White-billed Diver has become a regular feature of our trips here and we’ll make a special effort to see one. Lekking Black Grouse uttering their bubbling calls at dawn, Rock Ptarmigan displaying over the mountain slopes of Cairngorm, dainty Snow Bunting and elusive Ring Ouzel on the crags and Red Deer in the glens are just some of the other wildlife experiences we can expect on this Speyside Spring birding tour. Our accommodation for these tours is the fabulous Grant Arms Hotel in Grantown-on-Spey.
DAY ONE
We depart Norfolk (cars can be left at the Oriole office) at approximately 0600 for the long drive north to our base at Dunfermline. Naturally, we will make comfort and meal stops en route. With luck, we should arrive around 1400. In the afternoon we will make the short drive to nearby RSPB Loch Leven for a couple of hours birding. We should encounter a range of wildfowl, including Pink-footed Goose flocks, and on the loch itself we will see many Common Goldeneye with the chance of something rarer such as Smew or Greater Scaup. Tree Sparrows are common in the surrounding scrub and the marshy pools hold Common Snipe and an occasional Black-tailed Godwit, Ruff or Little Ringed Plover.
We depart Norfolk (cars can be left at the Oriole office) at approximately 0600 for the long drive north to our base at Dunfermline. Naturally, we will make comfort and meal stops en route. With luck, we should arrive around 1400. In the afternoon we will make the short drive to nearby RSPB Loch Leven for a couple of hours birding. We should encounter a range of wildfowl, including Pink-footed Goose flocks, and on the loch itself we will see many Common Goldeneye with the chance of something rarer such as Smew or Greater Scaup. Tree Sparrows are common in the surrounding scrub and the marshy pools hold Common Snipe and an occasional Black-tailed Godwit, Ruff or Little Ringed Plover.
Overnight Dunfermline
DAY TWO
Today we will hope to make a visit to Glenshee ski area on our way north, in order to take a trip on the Cairnwell charilift to look for Ptarmigan. We must stress that the chairlift is very weather dependent and if it is not running, we will make other plans for today. The alternative is to drive directly to Speyside and make a start on some of the specials there, with a walk in Abernethy forest for Crested Tits, a stop at an active Osprey nest, and an afternoon scanning for Golden Eagles in one of the neighbouring valleys.
DAY THREE
Cairngorm mountain is our first destination today to look for Ptarmigan if we have not seen them the previous day. The mountain railway is now operational again and we had success with the birds here in 2025 – if it is not open in 2026 then we will need to take one of the walking trails, depending on snow levels, in order to reach the plateaux to find the birds. Often, we can see them distantly with a scope without the need to ascend too far, but you will need a good level of physical fitness to complete even the easier walks. Of course, if you are unable to participate, you can stay at the car park and cafe and watch the Ring Ouzels, Snow Bunting, Red Grouse and Wheatear are other species which may be encountered. Following lunch, we head northwest via the scenic grandeur of the Findhorn Valley, all the time scanning skywards for raptors that might include Golden and White-tailed Eagles, Peregrine, Merlin, Osprey and Common Buzzard. Ring Ouzels may have arrived on the scree covered slopes, Common Ravens tumble overhead in display and we should have no problem encountering Red Deer here. Common Gull, Common Redshank and European Oystercatcher all breed here and perhaps a Common Sandpiper or even an early Common Tern may also be present. We drive the Farr Road over the moor to search for moorland species such as Red Grouse, and the small possibility of Hen Harrier, Merlin and Short-eared Owl as well as the often-numerous Mountain Hare. Loch Ruthven RSPB is our final destination, where resplendently dressed Slavonian Grebes can often be seen at close range. Red-throated Diver may also be encountered here, while more raptors may be overhead.
Cairngorm mountain is our first destination today to look for Ptarmigan if we have not seen them the previous day. The mountain railway is now operational again and we had success with the birds here in 2025 – if it is not open in 2026 then we will need to take one of the walking trails, depending on snow levels, in order to reach the plateaux to find the birds. Often, we can see them distantly with a scope without the need to ascend too far, but you will need a good level of physical fitness to complete even the easier walks. Of course, if you are unable to participate, you can stay at the car park and cafe and watch the Ring Ouzels, Snow Bunting, Red Grouse and Wheatear are other species which may be encountered. Following lunch, we head northwest via the scenic grandeur of the Findhorn Valley, all the time scanning skywards for raptors that might include Golden and White-tailed Eagles, Peregrine, Merlin, Osprey and Common Buzzard. Ring Ouzels may have arrived on the scree covered slopes, Common Ravens tumble overhead in display and we should have no problem encountering Red Deer here. Common Gull, Common Redshank and European Oystercatcher all breed here and perhaps a Common Sandpiper or even an early Common Tern may also be present. We drive the Farr Road over the moor to search for moorland species such as Red Grouse, and the small possibility of Hen Harrier, Merlin and Short-eared Owl as well as the often-numerous Mountain Hare. Loch Ruthven RSPB is our final destination, where resplendently dressed Slavonian Grebes can often be seen at close range. Red-throated Diver may also be encountered here, while more raptors may be overhead.
DAY FOUR
Abernethy is great for the Caledonian forest speciality birds including Crested Tit and Scottish/Parrot Crossbill as well as other common woodland species and Red Squirrels. Loch Garten should also hold Goosander, Common Goldeneye and the first Common Sandpipers. Walking quietly and listening for calls is the tactic most likely to yield results, and even without the birds this is a majestic habitat within which to walk. Lochindorb is a great place for Black-throated Divers and further opportunities for moorland species that may include European Golden Plover and perhaps Dunlin and Common Snipe. Continuing north, we bird at several locations on the Moray Firth such as Findhorn Bay, Burghead and Lossiemouth for a wide range of species including sea ducks such as Long-tailed Duck, Greater Scaup, Common and Velvet Scoters, Common Eider, Red-breasted Merganser and Red-throated and Great Northern Divers. Common and Black Guillemots and Razorbill can be seen in the harbours, while in some years scarce wildfowl such as Surf Scoter may be present. White-billed Diver is highly likely along the coast here, and we will visit some of the best sites in order to try and find one – though they can be distant! Shorebirds include Purple Sandpiper, Ruddy Turnstone and Dunlin. There is an excellent chance of both Iceland and Glaucous Gulls being present in the area too, and sometimes an American Wigeon or Green-winged Teal is present (we have seen King Eider too!).
Abernethy is great for the Caledonian forest speciality birds including Crested Tit and Scottish/Parrot Crossbill as well as other common woodland species and Red Squirrels. Loch Garten should also hold Goosander, Common Goldeneye and the first Common Sandpipers. Walking quietly and listening for calls is the tactic most likely to yield results, and even without the birds this is a majestic habitat within which to walk. Lochindorb is a great place for Black-throated Divers and further opportunities for moorland species that may include European Golden Plover and perhaps Dunlin and Common Snipe. Continuing north, we bird at several locations on the Moray Firth such as Findhorn Bay, Burghead and Lossiemouth for a wide range of species including sea ducks such as Long-tailed Duck, Greater Scaup, Common and Velvet Scoters, Common Eider, Red-breasted Merganser and Red-throated and Great Northern Divers. Common and Black Guillemots and Razorbill can be seen in the harbours, while in some years scarce wildfowl such as Surf Scoter may be present. White-billed Diver is highly likely along the coast here, and we will visit some of the best sites in order to try and find one – though they can be distant! Shorebirds include Purple Sandpiper, Ruddy Turnstone and Dunlin. There is an excellent chance of both Iceland and Glaucous Gulls being present in the area too, and sometimes an American Wigeon or Green-winged Teal is present (we have seen King Eider too!).
DAY FIVE
We begin the day at dawn for lekking Black Grouse at a site near our base. The birds can often be seen at mid distance using a scope whilst they carry out their elaborate courtship routines. Numbers are small at this site, but they are quite reliable here. We will return to the hotel for breakfast and then spend a full day out on the stunning West Coast. Crossing the Black Isle, we will pick up our first Red Kites, before travelling out to Dundonnel which will be our first stop. Golden and White-tailed Eagles can sometimes be seen over the ridges here and the sea loch holds Common Greenshank and Red-breasted Merganser. Further on at Gruinard Bay, we will spend some time scanning the sheltered waters for Great Northern Divers, with up to thirty birds often present and many in full summer plumage. Black Guillemot, Kittiwake, Great Skua and passing flocks of geese might also be seen and we have seen Otter and Iceland Gull here in the past as well as more likely Twite and Merlin. We scan the bay from several stopping points to give ourselves the best chance of connecting with more unusual species – White-billed Diver has been seen here on many occasions! We lunch at the beautiful location of Mellon Udrigle, where Northern Wheatear and Twite are often around the car park and divers are again in the bay. From this point we slowly work our way back towards base, stopping to view any areas we feel worthy on the route back. Hopefully a Golden Eagle over a hillside will have us leaping out of the vehicle!
We begin the day at dawn for lekking Black Grouse at a site near our base. The birds can often be seen at mid distance using a scope whilst they carry out their elaborate courtship routines. Numbers are small at this site, but they are quite reliable here. We will return to the hotel for breakfast and then spend a full day out on the stunning West Coast. Crossing the Black Isle, we will pick up our first Red Kites, before travelling out to Dundonnel which will be our first stop. Golden and White-tailed Eagles can sometimes be seen over the ridges here and the sea loch holds Common Greenshank and Red-breasted Merganser. Further on at Gruinard Bay, we will spend some time scanning the sheltered waters for Great Northern Divers, with up to thirty birds often present and many in full summer plumage. Black Guillemot, Kittiwake, Great Skua and passing flocks of geese might also be seen and we have seen Otter and Iceland Gull here in the past as well as more likely Twite and Merlin. We scan the bay from several stopping points to give ourselves the best chance of connecting with more unusual species – White-billed Diver has been seen here on many occasions! We lunch at the beautiful location of Mellon Udrigle, where Northern Wheatear and Twite are often around the car park and divers are again in the bay. From this point we slowly work our way back towards base, stopping to view any areas we feel worthy on the route back. Hopefully a Golden Eagle over a hillside will have us leaping out of the vehicle!
DAY SIX
Today we spend a leisurely time birding in the forest hoping to connect with two main targets – Crested Tit and Crossbills of various species. A circular walk of around 3 miles will take us through pristine Caledonian Forest and give us a good chance to find our targets. Common Redstart and Lesser Redpoll are often also seen. We lunch at Broomhill Bridge by the River Spey, watching the Sand Martins visiting their breeding holes and maybe spotting a Dipper or Common Sandpiper. The snow-capped Cairngorms can be seen well from here and are often brought to life by passing flocks of migrating Pink-footed Geese. We will try some raptor watching nearby along a beautiful open valley overlooking the Cairngorms, and here we have seen Golden Eagle, Red Kite, Merlin, Hen Harrier and Goshawk on previous visits.
Today we spend a leisurely time birding in the forest hoping to connect with two main targets – Crested Tit and Crossbills of various species. A circular walk of around 3 miles will take us through pristine Caledonian Forest and give us a good chance to find our targets. Common Redstart and Lesser Redpoll are often also seen. We lunch at Broomhill Bridge by the River Spey, watching the Sand Martins visiting their breeding holes and maybe spotting a Dipper or Common Sandpiper. The snow-capped Cairngorms can be seen well from here and are often brought to life by passing flocks of migrating Pink-footed Geese. We will try some raptor watching nearby along a beautiful open valley overlooking the Cairngorms, and here we have seen Golden Eagle, Red Kite, Merlin, Hen Harrier and Goshawk on previous visits.
DAY SEVEN
We have some flexibility today, depending on how we have fared with some of the key target species so far! Our preferred option will be to visit the beautiful Black Isle, where we can start the day at Chanonry Point scanning the sea for the regular pod of Bottle-nosed Dolphins. Nearby a nice forest area gives us more chances for crossbills before we cross to the northern side of the isle, and the excellent Cromarty Firth. From the RSPB hide and viewpoint, we should be able to scan large flocks of Pink-footed Geese, staging here before they make their final push north to Iceland. Lots of other wildfowl and waders will be present too, and there’s always the chance of seeing something unusual. An Osprey is often about and a little further along the road, we will be able to spot large numbers of Greater Scaup. Depending on the exact timing, and the weather, it’s often possible to see many hundreds here, along with Slavonian Grebes and Long-tailed Ducks, both most likely in breeding plumage. If there is a rarity a little further up the coast towards Loch Fleet, such as a King Eider, we will probably venture a bit further and check some other sites, all with the beautiful backdrop of the distant snow-capped peaks and the sheltered waters of the Moray Firth.
DAY EIGHT
We depart this morning after breakfast for the journey home.
A footnote on Capercaillie – this is the species we are asked about most frequently, but it must be stressed that due to the delicate nature of the declining population of this species, and the sensitive time of year, that we will not go searching for them. We have, very occasionally, chanced on them by the roadside by pure luck so there is always a slender chance.
WHATS INCLUDED
Seven nights en suite accommodation, meals from dinner on day one to breakfast on day eight, minibus transport, services of guide, and reserve entrance fees.
Seven nights en suite accommodation, meals from dinner on day one to breakfast on day eight, minibus transport, services of guide, and reserve entrance fees.
NOT INCLUDED
Transport to/from Norfolk and any overnight stay that might be required, drinks, lunch on day one and any items of a purely personal nature.
Transport to/from Norfolk and any overnight stay that might be required, drinks, lunch on day one and any items of a purely personal nature.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Collection is possible from train stations along our route such as King’s Lynn or Penrith.
Collection is possible from train stations along our route such as King’s Lynn or Penrith.
“I had a wonderful week with Oriole Birding. It was nice being with like minded people who very quickly seem to gel. Everybody pointing out birds and other wildlife to the group, sharing scopes to get the best views of species that may be a first for a lot of people. The sharing of information and photos carried on into the evening over dinner. All ending with a splendid comprehensive report being supplied to everyone very quickly.” M.H, Norfolk
“Ashley enabled me to fulfil childhood ambitions to see Highland birds. His expert knowledge has taught me a valuable amount. Most of all, Ashley is a birder passionate about his craft and not just concerned with a ‘tick list’. That, for me, was a vital reason for choosing Oriole Birding following our Norfolk day Tour in 2015.” C.H, Harwich
“I couldn’t fault anything. Ashley was a superb guide and able to spot a dot in the sky and identify it! He was so enthusiastic about birds, it was infectious.”
S.A, Harwich
“Brilliant birding, excellent accommodation and food and first class guides made for a great holiday -Thanks!”
S & C.C. Darlington
“I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the trip”
J. B. North Yorks.
“Thanks again for a really great trip”
M. C. Edinburgh
“We really enjoyed this ,our first organised birding trip”
J S & E S Cornwall
” I thoroughly enjoyed my tour in every way. The expertise of the guide at locating the target species ticks all the boxes as far as I am concerned and the guest house couldn’t have been better regarding meals, location and welcome. If the birds are there Oriole Birding will find them. You are treated equally regardless of your levels of experience, the group sizes are optimum not overwhelming, and finally, what price do you put on seeing all the grouse, four species of diver including the two White-billed Divers that Ashley found and Golden and White-tailed Eagles within the first three days of the trip!!”
G.B. Buckinghamshire.
“Many Thanks for another great trip”
A.M. Bridgend
“The week in Scotland with Ashley [volcanic Ash as I think I will call him from now on] was terrific. I saw all the birds that I wanted to see and more, the guest house was very good indeed and the scenery was breathtaking”
L H London.
“Another great trip with Oriole Birding. Ashley is a great guide and it is so much nicer being in a small group. We enjoyed great views of almost all of the species, which is so much more enjoyable than just ticking and moving on to the next one”
J S & BM Nottingham
“We had a fantastic week as we always do on your trips”
R & B P Essex
“Many thanks for another great trip. We both thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to the next one.”
D.O, Cheltenham
“I just wanted to let you know what a great time we had, you make it all seem so effortless although I’m sure its probably hard work…I can see why Dave chooses to come on your trips regularly, hopefully he won’t leave me at home too often in the future! It was all very enjoyable so – many, many thanks and hope to see you again soon”
V.B, Gloucs
“The flexible arrangements suited everyone and as usual the company was excellent. The itinerary was well planned and the leader skillfully took advantage of the weather to get us fantastic views of all the speciality birds”
A J & M S London
“We enjoyed the tour immensely. All the birds were delivered, the accommodation was excellent and Ashley was his usual brilliant self we learn so much on your holidays, this was out fourth and we already have two more booked which speaks for itself. Well done” L & RT, Worcester
“I just thought I’d let you know how much I enjoyed the week in Scotland – I had a great time!! ”
W S, Penarth
“Oriole makes the whole travel experience so easy and comfortable. The holiday was incredible value for money and the whole trip was a wonderful experience. Ashley was knowledgeable and helpful beyond reason. He is unfailingly good natured and supportive and knits the group together even when he must be exhausted and you could not wish for a better guide. He never fails to deliver the birds either. As long as I can walk I intend to participate on as many of your holidays as possible – thank you! thank you! thank you for another holiday that was wonderful in every way!
D.C, California
Tour at a glance
Tour at a glance
3rd Apr 2027 - 10th Apr 2027
AVAILABLE
