Nigel's Photo Blog

 Mute Swan with Cygnets   This afternoon I am posting images from the last two days taken at Rouken Glen Country Park, Glasgow where can be found a vitality of life and renewal centred on the extensive bird life on the local pond. Canada Geese with Goslings Mallard Duck with Ducklings Coot on nest Canada Geese with goslings hidden under bird on left. Little Grebe (aka 'Dipper') Little Grebe causing a splash Coot nestbuilding Pair of Tufted Ducks Mallard Ducklings Overall, a very satisfying and productive trip which was aided by good weather.

 Introduction This evening, I am focusing on fishing the River Spey, Scotland’s second longest river.  Fishing River Spey, Scotland Fishing River Spey, Scotland Information on the River Spey The Spey, which rises in the Monadhliath Mountains (which lie on the western side of Strathspey, to the west of the Cairngorms and to the south of Loch Ness), and runs N.E. for 107 miles (172km) before discharging into the Moray Firth, N.E. of Inverness. The Spey is a very clean river and home to a number of fish species including: Atlantic Salmon Trout European Eel Arctic Char Pike Minnow Stickleback Flounder. The fishing season runs from Feb 11th to Sept 30th. with popular beats at Wester Elchies, Delfur, Knockando, Tulchan, Castle Grant and Arndilly.The images above were taken near to Grantown-on-Spey. An impressive river in stunning scenery and very popular with anglers. Speyside is also home to about 40 whisky distilleries , but that is another story! River Spey at Aberlour  

 Introduction This afternoon I am reporting on a trip to Glasgow Green , Scotland to watch farriers at work on Clydesdale horses which I believe to be owned by Glasgow Council. Quite an unusual experience for city folk to observe.  Information on images Image of Farrier at work    Here is the Farrier’s equipment. Note hammer and anvil. Clydesdale Horse Nice animals. I believe they originated as heavy horses to carry the weight of medieval knights with heavy armour. Video clip   More Information For more help and information on touring Scotland, including flora and fauna, museums and sightseeing, please refer Visitors’ Guide to Scotland, ISBN 978-1-9161332-0-4. This publication is also available via Kindle .