"Great to see the Lynx, as this was unexpected. Also watching the Flamingoes in flight, on the last day coming in over the sea"
Dave Maslin
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"Having really good views of a Lynx and several close views of eagles and vultures"
Daphne & David Knight
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"Seeing Lynx and being seranaded by Golden Orioles. Displaying Booted Eagles. 100 Griffon Vultures floating by"
Sue Osborne
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"The thrill of finding wolf tracks around the local village pond, the thought that they where so close to us was awesome!"
Ali Elder
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"Wild Boar Sow with 5 piglets running after her. Really close view of a Firecrest, called up by Julian. Melodious and Bonellis Warblers. Golden Eagles and Griffon Vultures. Plus lots more, too numerous to mention, I had a great time with an excellent leader who had time for all the group. Also enjoyed the company of the other participants"
Mike Thomas
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"Seeing, photographing and getting really close to Tree Frogs. Seeing Firecrest displaying a few feet from us. Seeing a female boar running up a hill with 5 young running in single file behind her"
Rhona Watson
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"Despite the adverse circumstances, it was a great trip. Juan Pedro and Belen at the Vina las Torres were excellent hosts. We were kept well informed about the strenuous efforts Speyside were making to get us home, so thanks Lisa, Sally and Co. The birds were not bad either! My first Hawfinch after 50 years of looking!"
Andrew Roberts & Brenda Fitzgerald
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"Seeing so many vultures all at once - especially when they were devouring a dead sheep. Great Bustards displaying. Hen Harriers soaring. Hoopoes hooping. Two unexpected days in Madrid. The way you organised our trip home when we were "stuck". It was so reassuring to know you were in control"
Hazel & Peter Buchan
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"My best moment was as we walked outside Hotel Vina de las Torres on the first evening. The sun was shining, the fields and orchard groves were full of wild flowers ....as we started to walk I "called" a Hoopoe, a bird I was really keen to see, having never seen one before ! As we looked around there were Woodchat Shrike and Azure-winged Magpies - both new birds for us. A wonderful start and the holiday just built from there!"
Jackie & Richard Kinsey
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"Through the chaos caused by the Icelandic volcano, Speyside Wildlife made everything simple. The identification of wildlife by the guides was amazing"
Annie & David Erdman
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"This is always very difficult. From the experience and atmosphere of going to Mousa at night and standing at the broch with Storm Petrels whizzing round me and emerging from nests on the ground was a one off. On the other hand sitting in a boat around Noss with thousands of Gannets wheeling and screaming all around was also special."
Mary Batchelor
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"Julian's excitement when he spotted a male Black-headed Bunting! He managed to convey to us all just how exceptionable a sighting this was. And he wore his Mr. Happy t-shirt for dinner!"
Sue Aldam
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"The unexpected sightings of Basking Sharks as well as Otters. The flowers were surprisingly good given the early date and the late spring."
John Deurden
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"Several new bird species for me: Black-throated Diver, Crested Tit, Crossbill, Ptarmigan, Dotterel, Whinchat"
Philip Brighton
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"The Iona ferry diverting to make a close approach to some Basking Sharks. Seeing a Chequered Skipper for the first time. Sitting at the side of Fingal's Cave whilst eating my butties and contemplating the meaning of life!"
Barbara & Mike Shaw
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"Close and prolonged views, particularly of Otters and Puffins, giving chance to observe behaviour not "just" spot rarities"
Elspeth Brighton
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"The whole trip was a delight. Please express my heartfelt thanks to both Chrissie and John, they both went out of their way to ensure we saw what we were most interested in and treated everyone as an individual regardless of expertise. It was all totally 100% better than my wildest dreams. My personal highlight was the Black-throated Diver but it was all so magical that it would be difficult to really single anything out."
Penny Wood
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"There were lots! Tracking and then watching the rogue male Capercaillie for 20 minutes. The Black-throated Divers we saw on route to Handa Island. A snipe sitting happily on a telegraph pole for a long time while we had our picnic nearby. Two male Cuckoos challenging each other - also on a wire on our way to Handa Island. Watching a dipper going to and fro up a stream in the Findhorn Valley returning each time to feed young. And watching - again for quite some time - 3 Golden Eagles together, two of them rolling and tumbling over each other in play. Going in June meant we saw a lot of juveniles and fledgelings which was great fun."
Alice & Paul Baker
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"The day we went to Handa was my highlight day. We were so fortunate with the weather which made the journey by road a feast for the eyes. I gazed happily from the window at all the rivers, lochs, and mountains. The boat trip was fun and Seabird City a real treat. I had never anticipated that we would see so many bonxies and so close up. Bird highlights were the Osprey nest so close to the steading that one could wander down each morning before breakfast and after dinner to watch them on the nest and feeding, baby Tawny Owls, and a nesting Ringed Plover on the dried river bed, all so close to the steading."
Chrissie Edginton
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"Laughing together as a group, sitting by the lochan at Uathan and walking by the river and watching the Osprey and the baby owls. Just being in Scotland with the mountains, lakes and glens. Do you know that old hymn..."O Lord my God when I in awesome wonder consider all the works Thy hand has made" it described my experience exactly."
Caroline Harvey
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"The whole "Speyside Wildlife" experience was a joy in itself. The concept of the guides involved in the nitty gritty of running the tour, serving at mealtimes and looking after luncheon arrangements is a touch of genius. It creates an ethos of working together, being concerned and wanting to do well. We were not let down. The dancing red throated divers on the small lochan was pure magic."
Anthony Wardell
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"There were highlights every day, its like being asked for your favourite child. Seeing the pair of Red-throated Divers within the first ten minutes of our first trip on our first day was special. We thought to ourselves "follow that" and you did."
Wendy & David Miles
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"The scenery: mountains, lochs (especially Uath Lochans ), Skuas overhead (close overhead!) and 23 bathing in a pool on Handa Island, Findhorn River, Crested Tits at nest, Slavonian Grebe, Labrador seen off by Roe Deer just outside the Steading, Dipper at Silver Bridge"
Carol Gibson
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"Handa island - just a great place, Abernethy forest watching Crested Tit nest, North Kessoch - Dolphins & Otters"
David Chilvers
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"Emperor Moth in trap, boxing hares (twice), Black-throated Diver trying to drown a Mallard, Black Cock lek, Mountain Hare, Ospreys on the nest"
Diana Westmoreland
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"So many. We were thrilled to see Ospreys. It was so good to have close-up views through the guides scopes. Tom was excited by the flying antics of the great flocks of Greylag Geese at the Black Isle. Carmel especially enjoyed the wading birds and others at the magical Mellon Udrigle beach."
Carmel & Tom Ambridge
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"We've been coming to Scotland for about 40 years - this was one of the best holidays ever .... certainly in our top three!"
David & Gillian Smith
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"Enjoyed it all but particularly seeing Crested Tits, the Red-throated Diver and Slavonian Grebe at Avielochan. Views from top of Cairngorm Mountain centre amazing, glad we went up there. Also great weather."
Allen James
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"The Outer Hebrides was wonderful and we are looking forward to a whole week there next year!"
Barbara & Richard Shaw
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"Too many highlights to list them all - Outer Hebrides a treat on their own - another first rate holiday with our thanks to Mark and Craig for excellent guiding - a few of the special moments below …...The waders, Corncrakes, Whooper Swans with Cygnets, Skuas and so much more …. And then to see a Wheatear demolishing an Emperor moth and catch the photo was too good to be true, and as for the female Red-necked Phalarope dropping onto the pond in front of us at just the right time was stunning. All in all a wonderful experience for us both - well fed - great guiding - perfect pace and loads of lovely photographic memories - thanks to all at Speyside, see you at the Birdfair :)"
Steve & Belinda Batt
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"Meeting a Capercaillie Seeing a Corncrake Witnessing a Black Grouse leck Seeing a Mountain Hare - a first"
Mick McMahon
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"I always find highlights difficult to define because there are so many! Big spectacular birds, little colourful ones, lovely places. An overall enjoyable different experience"
Marilyn Pritchard
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"Belen & Juan Pedro made me feel like one of the family, There were many highlights but the Bustards in flight was my most magical moment...or was it the Roller and the Bee-eaters"
Christine Haynes
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"Seeing several new birds, lots of Montegu's Harriers, the Steppe grassland areas with Great & Little Bustards and good views of Sand Grouse. The experience and friendliness of Mark & Darren really made this god holiday into a great one! This would be an excellent first overseas wildlife holiday for those looking further afield"
Mark Bridges
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"I have to write to say how grateful we are to you and your team for every aspect of the Extremadura experience! … the holiday itself was fabulous, well organised and great fun. Darren & Mark are great guides and great company… Finally the journey home. Lisa was terrific. She must have spent hours organising our return. We are so indebted to her and everyone else in the office who worked so hard on our behalf. Mark was a diamond. He sheltered us from the worst of the trauma, he kept us updated with developments, he worked out the "on the spot" difficulties and he did all this without a second guide. We cannot thank him enough for his diligence. And yourself. You got us home! We are so thankful for taking up our personal situation. We were not part of the second group and yet you undertook our return. I need to know how much it cost you to get Chris and I back as we cannot allow you to be out of pocket on our behalf. We loved the holiday and the 'extension' was just part of the fun because Speyside Wildlife took out all the worry. We look forward to Hungary in November when hopefully there will be no drama."
Norman Haynes
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“I keep taking holidays with Speyside Wildlife because I have confidence in the quality of the holiday and the guides. Wildlife holidays are by their very nature not cheap, but I have always felt that the money is well spent. This holiday and the extension proved it to me. Many companies can provide good holidays when everything goes smoothly, but the calibre of the organisation really shows through in responding well when things go wrong - as you did. While we were at Asa Wright, other guests, notably from the USA, talked to us and commented most favourably about how well they thought Roy was handling the situation and the group ... I found it easy to get on and enjoy the unexpected extension of my holiday ... I have every confidence in Speyside Wildlife holidays and would happily recommend you to anyone interested in Wildlife holidays. You have demonstrated just how very good you are!”
Catriona Vincent
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“Both Mark and Julian ... handled the difficult situation of our extended stay with professionalism and we would like to thank them for all their hard work in getting us home. We would also like to thank everyone in the Speyside office for all your hard work.”
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“Just a quick message to say thank you to you, Lisa and all your team for all the effort put in to get us home. It was so reassuring to know that everything possible was being done for us. Roy has been amazing, keeping us all occupied with trips out, helping to resolve the inevitable problems of having an unplanned absence from home and keeping all our spirits up. I’m not sure how he has kept going for all this time, but he deserves a very big thank you!”
Pauline Pothecary
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"We wanted to give you a special thank you for all your work in difficult circumstances ... Woody (our cat) also sends his thanks to you for arranging an extended stay in the cattery. He has now returned home safely as well, without being put on the street with his spotted handkerchief over his shoulder.”
John and Christine Shawyer
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“Both Mark and Julian ... handled the difficult situation of our extended stay with professionalism and we would like to thank them for all their hard work in getting us home. We would also like to thank everyone in the Speyside office for all your hard work.”
Keith and Penny Chantler
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"I know I said thank you to Lisa when she very kindly called on Friday, but having just read the Sunday newspaper and the plight of many people still stranded, I realise just how lucky we were to be with Speyside Wildlife when unable to fly back from Madrid last week. I realise you had a duty of care but you must have gone to extraordinary lengths and spent hours getting us home and I am really really grateful. Everything seemed to go seamlessly well, yes, there were moments of uncertainty, but Julian and especially Mark kept us well informed and carried out guiding on our extra birding days. We had a super time in Madrid, a comfortable hotel, easy access into town and, for me, joy of joys, six hours in the Museo Del Prado! Thanks must go to Norman who drove one of the minibuses to the Port of Bilbao where we caught the ferry home. Again we travelled in comfort, an outside cabin, a good meal and breakfast and, to add to it, dolphin watching, whale watching and sea birds with Mark patiently guiding yet again! Congratulations, I know you pride yourselves on having good guides, Mark surely not only excels in the field but his customer care is equal to none. I have never been with any other bird watching company so I can't compare but one thing is certain, I shall never find out as I will always choose Speyside Wildlife … words cannot convey the thanks we owe you."
Jenny Davis
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"I would just like to express my thanks to Lisa, Sally and Co for their efforts to get us home in what must have been trying circumstances! … Far from putting me off, I would be interested in the Pyrenees next year if there is a trip and/or in the 24/7 one at the Steading…"
Andrew Roberts
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"I want to write to thank you and your staff for the wonderful holiday Hazel and I enjoyed in Extremadura this April. We had a fabulous time, not only was the organisation of our trip excellent but the professionalism and skills of our guides, Mark and Julian, was only matched by their enthusiasm and helpfulness. The hotel at Vina las Torres was first class and gave us a comfortable and friendly base for our travels. When the volcano struck, Mark kept us reassured and informed at all times of the plans that your office made for our safe and comfortable return. Mark was really great in making us feel confident and content despite the very real difficulties that you must have faced over this time. Can I also thank you and your office staff for the tremendous amount of work you did to ensure our safe return home. It must have been a nightmare for you all with all the responsibilities suddently thrust upon you for us and the others on Speyside Wildlife ventures. Thank you so much for all the very hard work that you and your staff put in over this time. I can assure you than everyone on the Extremadura trip was impressed with your efficiency and your care of your clients."
Peter Buchan
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"I am writing to thank Speyside and particularly Sally and team, Mark and Julian for all their work, well above and way beyond the call of duty during our holiday and the 5 extra days we enjoyed. Mark and Julian never rested whilst looking after us, when they were perfectly entitled to some free time. The extra days at Vina las Torres were a bonus; the two days in Madrid an unexpected pleasure and the Bilbao ferry quite an experience, but at the same time it was probably quite nerve wracking for the leaders. The whole trip was perfect and the daily outings, each one so different, unbelievable. The accommodation was marvellous and our hosts really made us feel at home. I for one will never forget my first visit to Spain, and it has quite put my birdwatching in the UK in the shade. It would be good to see storks, Azure-winged Magpies, Bee-eaters, Hoopoes and Corn Buntings every day here as well"
Brenda Fitzgerald
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"Walking around Uath Lochans in the snow and on Mull, Crested Tits, Eagles and the outdoor hot tub at Mull Hotel!"
Anna Lloyd
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"Craig stepping into snow up to his middle in the Cairngorm Car Park (but seriously - Otters and Otters and Eagles, my first Crested Tit and a spectacular King Eider at Roseisle)"
Sandra Marley
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"Nesting White-tailed Eagles on Mull and a King Eider at Roseisle"
Charles Gordon
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"Seeing a Lynx scent mark it's territory by the rivers edge"
Sheila & Mark Devlin
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"To actually see a Lynx, be it quite briefly. Spanish Imperial Eagle which displayed right in front of us - wonderful!"
Anne Beeks
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"The obvious highlight was seeing the Lynx. We had to work hard for the sighting as we put in many hours in the field before seeing probably 2 animals on Thursday afternoon. It was an emotional moment to see such an endangered animal strolling around such a beautiful landscape"
Sheelagh Halsey & Chris Grimmett
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"Being at the Steading again."
Chris Heber-Percy
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"The evening goose roost on Islay was sheer magic - the sounds and sights of the birds are quite unforgettable."
Barbara Weeks
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"I have two outstanding memories of this trip. 1) The sight - a glimpse through the trees - of Long-tailed Manakins dancing at their "lek", three males performing for the attention of the single watching female. 2) Watching a group of Swallow-tailed Kites circling over a pond and then swooping down and skimming the surface of the water. Such elegant birds - we could have watched them for hours."
Ann Reith
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"In general excellent photographic opportunites. Carara National Park. Tarcoles River excursion. Owling."
Martin Reith
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"Seeing monkeys in the wild for the first time and being woken up one morning by "howlers" - not something that happens in Bristol!"
Adele Reynolds
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"Experiencing rainforest and jungle for the first time. Seeing monkeys and sloths."
Martin Warren
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"The highlight for me were the huge flocks of geese"
Tony Lack
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"The amazing number of geese, the Bittern crossing the road in front of the van, three Firecrest in a wood, Darrens sharp eyes although mention Bewick swans to him!!!! The fight against the extreemly cold weather was a hard job for the guide especially, but we all had a super time. In my case just what the doctor ordered"
Joy Chalk
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"Spectacle of thousands of geese plus excellent views of Bittern and two "twitches" of Oriental Turtle Dove and Northern Oriel"
John Chalk
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"For me there were several highlights on this holiday. Most days throughout the week brought us more interesting species. Griffon Vultures everyday; Black Kites were also a common site. The Wallcreeper was one of the best sightings along with the Scops Owl".
Nick Razey
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"Two memorable moments come to mind:- popping out on the balcony at the Birding Lodge in the early evening and finding a Bee-eater swooping and circling only yards away, it's glorious colours highlighted by the evening sun and standing by a river watching a cloud of Banded Demoiselles flitting about the bushes while the glorious liquid song of a Nightingale sounded from the nearby trees"
Anne Reith
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"The birding was excellent thanks in a good part to Mark, the guide"
Dirk van Gelderen
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"Moray Firth - It was a wild day, the sea was rough but we saw a raft of ducks quite close in, five species, Scoters, Eiders, Velvet Scoters, Long-tailed ducks and Pintails. It was the closest I have ever been to see ducks, an utterly memorable experience. Islay - Our hotel was about 2 minutes walk from the estuary. At dusk skein after skein of Geese appear from all sides. It was magic."
Bruce McLaren
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"American Green Winged Teal, then a pair of Gadwall, then a Hen Harrier perched on the bank, finally two local Mute Swans beat up and put to flight 11 Whooper Swans, fantastic. Simon can even summon up rarities in a blizzard - give him a pay rise!"
Dave Simpson
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"Badgers and Pine Marten one evening; an Osprey taking a fish; Black Grouse lekking; a Capercaille flying over us; wonderful close views of Crossbills and Crested Tits; Snow Bunting hopping around the skiers at Cairngorm. On Islay a group of about 30 Chough and thousands of Barnacle Geese flying in against a stormy sunset with a circling Woodcock; how can you select one moment?"
Jill Reeves
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"Sabine Gull, Goldcrests round our feet, and huge migration skeins of geese and migrating thousands of Eiders."
Judy & John Tuke
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"The highlight of my holiday was when Roy played the Black Woodpecker on his little machine and it turned up and gave us a magnificent sight. Flying round us for about 5 - 10 minutes, magic."
Gordon Stuttard
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"Listening to the sound of wolves on a misty morning."
David King
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"Watching the beavers making a dam. Hearing the wolves howling. Spotting our first bear. There were many more highlights as the holiday was fantastic."
Andrea King
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"Watching a Short-toed Eagle hovering along a coast. Seeing an Eleanora Falcon up close. Watching a Pelican disturb hundreds of Greater Flamingos. Seeing and hearing Rock Nuthatches all over the Island. Newly mown fields full of Yellow Wagtails and Willow Warblers. Many memorable moments."
Daphne & David Knight
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"Oh, so many highlights! Was just fantastic watching an albatross leisurely fly by the boat off Monterey Bay and the dolphins that came in and surrounded the boat leaping out of the water all around us. Then there was the day in Yosemite when Red-breasted Nuthatches were on the ground just in front of us, rooting around making their little beeping noises. Then there was Yosemite and Mono Lake with such fantastic scenery."
Jonathan Ellis
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"I don’t know how your guides manage it, but every holiday we take has truly memorable mements which will last a lifetime - looking down onto a Wallcreeper only 10 metres away or seeing 2 Cuviers Beaked Whales breaching must take some beating."
Hazel Pickering
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"The holiday was superb, full on, but ok for me and we were lucky enough to see lots of bears and distant wolves and all the top mammals. And I was lucky enough to spot the first bear coming out of the wood at Pelican Bridge. It swam into the water and had a stand off with two other bears which were on a peninsula, we think a kill had been made, as an Elk was very close to the bears so we think her calf was killed. We saw one of the bears eating on what looked like a calf, quite a magical moment with mixed emotions, I'll never forget it."
"It's my 2nd holiday with Ian and Darren, the 'Dream Team' such good fun and great expertise, and certainly one of the holidays of a lifetime."
Anne Beeks
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"Wonderful views of Great Grey Owls, and Harlequin Ducks flapping their wings onto surface of water to gain speed up stream!"
Judy & John Tuke
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"….. This was my third visit into the Northern Cairngorm Corries and at last I saw Alpine Saw Wort in flower. Other years it has been tight bud. The other botanic delight was a Lochan at Loch Insh Water Sports that was covered in Water Lobelia. The Lochan was mirror calm so we had double the number of flowers. It was a beautiful sight and even Roy had never seen the Lochan with so many flowers. These were my top highlights though my best ever views or Crested Tit in many, many visits to Scotland also has to come into the reckoning."
Betty Needham
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"My highlight was seeing the Crested Tit in the top of high trees using binoculars. As a non birder, unused to using bins, I found it difficult to lock onto small birds flitting about in high trees, so when I actually managed it I saw an image similar to the photo of the Crested Tit you have in the dining room at the Steading, it made my day!."
Steve Burton
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"Particularly impressed with Roy's knowledge of all things botanical, as a lepidopterist and a birder! Amazing evening at Badger Hide, with 3 Badgers, a Red Deer's close approach, plus 3 Pine Martens kits - especially taking the eggs - and of course the ghostly image of Tawny Owl and the little Woodmouse. Many thanks Roy and Sharon (for excellent food) and Alan at the hide."
Pat Humby
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"This was a holiday with so many special moments that makes it very hard to settle on just a few very special moments. Some personal, others shared with the group, or, in the case of the dolphins, with all those on deck watching hundreds of them passing so close to the ship. There was something infectious about the sheer 'joie de vivre' emanating from the dolphins to all of us whooping & cheering as they leapt all around."
"This was a holiday where many in the group were interested in more than birds. We spent time looking at cetaceans, butterflies, lizards, bugs, wildflowers and, for some, high level frogs, newts and tadpoles. I loved the relaxed pace and sense of wonder at the beauty we could all enjoy if we took a little time to stop and share. Speyside holidays, one is never enough. After one is over, the only thing to do is to start planning the next!"
Catriona Vincent
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"It is difficult to pick a highlight as the whole holiday was memorable. Flying in over Spitsbergen and seeing the mountains and glaciers below. I have never taken a photo of the scenery at an airport before. However, I think the most magical moment which happened on the last day, was seeing a Beluga whale with her calf less than 30ft away from the zodiac. That was wonderful."
Sue Barattini
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"There were many memorable moments on this holiday. The first Polar Bear…..the Beluga whales….the Guillemot colony. However, I think the highlight was the Fulmer who flew back with us around our zodiac one afternoon. It was so close I could identify all the markings and it was as if he was having fun doing 'escort' duty. The Fulmer's also 'played' alongside the ship one evening whilst we were having dinner - almost like a 'show'. It's not often you get the oppprtunity to be so near wildlife that isn't afraid of your prescence in this way."
Fay Young
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"The highlights on this holiday kept on coming - but Mr & Mrs Great Northern Diver with their young took some beating. Then so did close up views of Harlequin Duck, Red-necked Phalarope, Barrow's Goldeneye and numerous Snipe occupying their fence post perches. The landscape was also dramatic - the striking columns of Dimmuborgir, the Gullsfoss waterfall, the lava flows at Klrafla. There was enough time to appreciate the history and culture of the island as well."
Wendy Hayward
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"Iceland is a most wonderful place to visit and would have no hesitation in returning for a future holiday."
Val Colson
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"I had high expectations of the holiday - and they were surpassed! Brilliant!"
Margaret Vernon
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"The whole holiday, especially the Lake Myvatn area. Harlequin Ducks, Snow Bunting in breeding plumage, Red-necked Phalarope - in such large numbers, Gyr Falcon and it's young."
Greta Willis
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"05.00am springtime in Aviemore, me and my wife are eagerly awaiting our guide John amidst the awakening birds in their chorus of springsongs. Spot on time comes our guide: "Hi I'm John, you must be Edwin & Anne-Marie. I suggest we start going and talk on the way". The aim is a Capercaillie lek. Rather than driving there straight John drives through the awakening forest and fields and brakes when two Roe Deer cross metres in front of the car. "Never mind the first one he say's, it's always the second you have to worry about". He planned a stop on the way from where two leks of Black Grouse are visible both at the same time. Birds are displaying on both places and we can hear their gurgling and rolling sounds, wonderful. Next stop is the long awaited Caper lek. After no wait we get lucky as well, two big Cocks displaying in full plumage of black, red, green and white with raised tails opposite each other, in between them only 2 metres. A childhood wish fulfilled. John and Speyside, thank you!!"
Edwin & Anne-Marie Schuurman
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"There were many holiday highlights, seeing the Great Grey Owl was a real highlight for me, plus all the other owls that Finland has. It was my main reason for picking the Finland trip, I'd always hoped one day to see the Great Grey Owl. I also love the waders and seeing lekking Ruff, was a treat."
" We had a great group, one morning while in Norway we had a coffee break and little cakes that Roy had bought for Daphnes birthday. So with beautiful landscapes all around we sang Happy Birthday and Roy gave her a card we had all signed, and to see her face was a lovely surprise for her, it was great. Every day was great with new birds coming thick and fast but I have to say that coming back along Varangur Fjord, Roy spots some white shapes in the fjord. We stop and to our surprise and delight they are Beluga Whales, what great views, we have about 20 altogether. Harri said they follow the coast on their way to their breeding grounds in Russia, he has only seen them himself 3 or 4 times. Fantastic what a finish to a great holiday."
Ann Thitchener
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"We had really hoped to see a Dotterel on this holiday, as we'd never been lucky enough to see one in Scotland. We had told Harri and Roy of our hopes, but we had been diappointed at a couple of sites that we'd searched, including Ailigais Hill. On our last morning, a few hours before we were due to fly home, Harri said there was one last possible site at a ski slope not far from Ivalo airport. When we arrived there was sleet falling and only Reindeer to be seen. Suddenly Harri signalled that he'd heard on his walkie talkie from Roy's group that one had been spotted. There he was a beautiful male dotterel sitting tight on his nest a few paces away. A lovely end to a lovely holiday!!"
Theresa Nicholas
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"The days guiding was excellent and provided great views of Red Deer, and we saw Crested Tit which we had never seen before. It wasn't so much what we saw it was the whole experience being with someone who had a love of wildlife and could inform us of all aspects of wildlife in the area. The day with our guide John prepared us for our week at Carrbridge and the surrounding area. It enabled us to make the most of our holiday and maximise wildlife spotting opportunities. I would definately use a Speyside Guide again as it was an excellent day out. Finally, I would like to compliment your guide for the wildlife hide, who's name escapes me. Although we were unlucky to see anything, he was outstanding. Extremely interesting to talk to, his knowledge off all the species, Pine Marten, Badger, Deer and much more was just fantastic. He was enthusiastic and informative, he is the sort of person you could sit and listen to for hours. We learnedt so much and even though we didn't see anything we still had a great evening. I am looking forward to visiting the hide again and hope he will be our host. Many thanks for the vouchers."
Janet Mew
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"I said 'wow' so many times at the Grand Canyon I lost count. Everything about San Pedro was wonderful I fell in love with Shadow and Cody (the owners dogs)."
Christine Haynes
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"You have to go to the Grand Canyon! It's an experience that exceeds everything people say about it. The helicopter ride was breathtaking. Add in some excellent birds and lodging, lead by exceptional leaders and you have a quality holiday."
Norman Haynes
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"My magic moment was when we got the Grand Canyon into view. Seen it on TV. Read about it. It was simply massive. Breathtaking. Before I got there I made up my mind I was going to take a trip in the helicopter. Was simply stunning."
Albert Sinclair
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"John's encyclopaedic knowledge and exemplary local knowledge combined to make sure all our wish list was well and truly met. In addition 4 Pine Martens in first ten minutes (in hide 2 days later) has left us wanting more."
Richard Lewis
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"First sight of a Vermilion Flycatcher displaying in flight, like a red tennis ball. The amazing flash of blue from the Indigo Bunting. The Nighthawks at Casa San Pedro. An Osprey catching a fish in the river at Sedona. Burrowing owls beside a busy road. One of our main objctives, a male and female Elegant Trogon."
Antony Wordsworth
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"So many highlights. As it was my first time bird watching in this part of the world, I saw an unbelieveable 200 new species, thanks of course to Darren & Roy. However if I had to pull one highlight out of so many, it would have to be the helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon."
Mick Moore
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"It's hard to extract one thing from the holiday as I saw so many beautiful birds, but will always remember the Grand Canyon."
Carol Moore
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"Just one of the holiday highlights of our trip to Extremadura was witnessing five pairs of Montagu's Harriers displaying over a field of barley at 'Montys Junction'. This spot apparently is the place, where the birds meet after their migration, to pair up. It happens each year before they disperse to nest. Why they return to this spot each year to display and chose a mate no-one knows but it was a wonderful experience, one I shall never forget."
Stuart Bray
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"Lesser Kestrels and Starlings. Eagle Owl and 2 owlets. Loads and loads of birds. Chatty informative guides, very caring and kind. Always learning something new. Good company. The whole experience is a delight."
Christine Bray
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"Magnificant moments with Great Bustards (which we had gone to see) in mating plumage. One male almost pecked a female to death (no idea why, maybe he didn't fancy her!)."
Geraldine Pilcher
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"The Wrynecks in the village were very confiding, a real pleasure to see them so well. The village is a real find, very special."
Geoff Bailey
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"The view of a gliding, circling Golden Eagle in a canyon, close to the Portugese border in NW Spain was a magnificant sight, and the thrill of looking downwards and experiencing the colours and shades of the wings of this beautiful bird will stay with me forever, one of my best birding moments which I thank the guides of Speyside Wildlife."
Carol Bailey
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"The highlight was getting so close to Badgers. It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening for myself and my 14 year old son. I would have no hesitation in recommending it to family and friends. A welcome change in the pace of life, just sit and wait for nature to appear."
Michael Jenks
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"Just seeing the wildlife in their natural habitat - Badgers, Pine Marten and a lovely female Red Deer who stuck around for ages"
Ann Brown
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"Badgers! The most Badgers we have ever seen from the Speyside hide (we think there were 8 different individuals). At one stage we had 4 lined up right in front of the window - magic :)"
Claire Stares
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"The Badgers and Pine Martens and to find that the hide was heated."
M V Brooks
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"Has to be the Pine Martens; we saw 3 over the course of the evening and we will never forget it!"
Mary Wheal
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"Seeing the Badgers, Deer and Pine Marten so close-up."
Pat McKerrow
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"The Pine Martens....and when the Badger chased the Pine Marten up the tree and tried to climb the tree after it...what a laugh.."
James Knowles
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"My partner is Australian and has always wanted to see a Badger and I have never seen one either so the highlight was when a Badger came to feed right in front of us. We were also thrilled to see Pine Martens feeding at the same time which we were told was quite rare! Brilliant experience and congrats to our guide for his great work."
Fiona Smellie
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"For me, my holiday highlight was the realisation of a 15 year dream to set foot on St Kilda, having only every enticingly read about the islands and their history in Charles Maclean's St Kilda: Island on the Edge of the World. I'd even been on the Inner Hebridean Canna to Coll holiday with Speyside Wildlife to see if I had the sea legs for a trip to St Kilda. Fortunately, I discovered I had so booked my place. I knew that getting to St Kilda wasn't guaranteed, as the Skipper, Chris always had to make difficult decisions based on the weather forecasts and the tide. On Tuesday morning, when we were ashore on the island of Taransay, we all had very distant views of 2 islands right out to the far west. A murmer went round the group - that must be the archipelago of St Kilda. After lunch Chris decided to set sail for the Monach islands with a plan to sail to St Kilda the next day. As we set sail, what I called the goalposts of the two main islands of St Kilda, Hirta and Boreray were still far out to our right. I kept my sights fixed on the horizon, looking out for passing Divers, Storm Petrels, Shearwaters and other seabirds. Then, very slowly after about an hour, I noticed that the goalposts were now directly ahead of us and that we had changed direction. I caught my breath and couldn't stop a large smile creeping across my face I dared to realise what this meant - we were now heading for St Kilda today, not tomorrow but right now! We excitedly asked Duncan to speak to Chris who confirmed we were indeed heading out to sea but just to see what the conditions were like further out. With the goalposts straight ahead and the knowledge it would still take about 6 hours to get there, a group of us wrapped up in our waterproofs gave such a cheer on the the top deck. The smiles never left our faces and we all remained on deck until we sailed into Village Bay for our first night on St Kilda - where an Iceland Gull welcomed us to our anchorage. As we enjoyed our delicious dinner the boat slowly revolved around its mooring, revealing an every changing St Kildan panorama in the evening light. A rainbow appeared over the island of Dun just confirming what a truly special place it is."
Catharine Jarvis
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"The boat, the crew/guides, itinerary and weather all exceptionnaly good and leadership exemplary. Thanks to all at Speyside Wildlife for all the memories that will live with me for the rest of my life - a unique, enlightening, and "enjoyably tiring" week in great company, Duncan Mc must be in the top 1% of wildlife guides in GB and doubled the enjoyment of everyone on board. Thanks"
Terry Smith
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"There were quite a few magic moments on this trip. The first one came with the first dinner and indeed the meal and snacks, the homemade, still warm cakes, were a real holiday highlight. Seeing the Minke Whales and the Dolphins apparently enjoying themselves low wave riding was magical, as were the Basking Sharks, I hadn't realised they were so big. Seeing the huge White-tailed Sea Eagle and the Golden Eagles, especially the Golden Eagle pair with the chick in the eyrie on Mull was thrilling. The largest Gannet colony in the world on Bareray and the stacks was amazing. Catherine had brought along a bottle of champagne which she shared with us while watching the Gannets there, which was a real magical moment. Another magical moment was when we realised we were on track for St Kilda that afternoon and not heading for the Monach Islands. Our walk round Village Bay, Hirta and realising how hard the villagers lives must have been was awe inspiring. Also, I so enjoyed seeing the Heath Spotted Orchids and other flowers blooming away there. There was also the thrill of going through the Soay Gap when we were taken round the St Kilda Islands. However, I think my best magic moment was on Lunga Island, lying on my stomach talking to the Puffins. They are such comical little birds and I loved the way they popped out of their burrows, looked round, and the way they fly. The group got on so well, we had lots of laughs and everyone was keen. We couldn't have been looked after better by Chris, Elaine and Jenny and all in all I think the St Kilda trip has been one of my best holidays."
Jenny Gilson
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"I just loved every minute of my holiday. The crew were really excellent, Duncan our guide also superb and attentive without being a nuisance, a really splendid holiday - and I am not a birder."
Elaine Mills
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"This was the best holiday I've had. Somewhat to my surprise I really enjoyed the boat and it took us much closer to the wildlife. We had lots of really brilliant views of Eagle (Golden and White-tailed), Basking Sharks, Minke Whale, Dolphins (Common and White-beaked) Harbour Porpoise, Gannets, Gannets, Gannets, Puffins, Puffins, Puffins, Kittiwake, Fulmar, Guillemots, Manx Shearwater in dozens, Skuas, Arctic and Common Terns, Otter, oh and a Hedgehog walking up the path towards us on Canna. The moment when we realised the conditions were good and the boat headed for St Kilda was a joy (we'd set off westwards experimentally but were going to turn South to the Monagh Isles if conditions weren't right - however, there was a point when Duncan pointed out we'd gone too far westwards to turn back now, so we must be going to St Kilda!). That afternoon was very special, on top of the boat, watching the islands of St Kilda come closer and closer, the group buzzing with excitement. A wonderful holiday, I hated coming back!"
Julia Lashly
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"One of the best holidays ever, Geese everywhere. The close views of them flying in to roost was spectacular in itself but add to that Hen Harriers a-plenty, prolonged views of Merlin, a Golden Eagle at just a few hundred yards and not just one or two Otters, but six in sight all at once - amazing! We were about to walk away when a movement on the rocks caught our attention, Simon and Steve got the scope on what seemed like 2 Otter chasing about on the seaweed and rocks but as we watched, the Otters grew into six. We watched for some time as the two groups of three Otter played and fed until the incoming tide drove them away, even then as we walked along the shore we caught more glimpses of them moving along the shore."
Sue Ripley
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"We had a very nice holiday with wonderful birds - being by the loch in Islay when the Geese come in at dusk is an unforgettable experience - wave after wave of hundreds of Geese - something that everyone should enjoy at least once in their lifetime."
Alan Ripley
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"The whole holiday was a highlight. Pine Martens still eluded us but great views of a Capercaillie, of Crested Tits (from the hide), Otters, Parrot and Common Crossbills and Reindeer (grazing by the road!) and lots more. The group was great, wonderful scenery and autumn colours and not too much rain."
Sheila Julius
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"I am not a birder, I came on this week because Morag desperately wanted it, I didn't care much if I might enjoy it. As it turned out the whole week was not simply enjoyable, it was magical, I hugely enjoyed it all. The setting was splendid and each day a revelation. The Steading was comfortable and welcoming, the food excellent, the company of the other guests a delight. The holiday though, was a triumph because of our guides John & Chrissie, they were splendid companions, very knowledgeable and put their experience and expertise at our disposal in a very relaxed manner. To put it bluntly they worked their socks off for us from breakfast, driving, guiding, tracking and sharing through to post dinner debriefing. They are huge assets and because of them largely, this holiday was one I delighted in, when all I had expected was to tag along with Morag which would have been fine and I would enjoy it. In the end it turned out to be one of the most memorable holidays we have ever had and I enjoyed every moment of it. If anyone, like me, not a birder, was hesitant to come up I would encourage them without hesitation. I thought I was too old for this and I have never been more delighted to be wrong. Thank you for a memorable week."
Norman Rea
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"So many! So many firsts for me...... The stags; A mountain hare; The tiny mice in the Hide; Just being in the hide at night and the excitemenmt when the Badger family appeared (the relief on the faces of the guides that we had had a successful night even if we didnt see a pine marten); A crossbill!; A capercaille on the very last day thanks to the beady eyes of one of the guests; Chrissies happiness!; Being up in the Cairgorms with the mists hanging over everywhere and chilled to the bone only to be warmed up by a hot chocolate in the cafe!; I could go on and on but..........as we left the Steading on a chilly frosty morning low mist hanging over the water and the fields that we passed; the autumn colours more vibrant than when we arrived a week earlier; a young deer nearly ran across in front of us but instead he turned tail and lept across the fence and away into the Scottish mist....Now that WAS a magic moment."
Kathy McGeough
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"Crested Tits at hide at Ballintean; Otters; Greylag Geese coming into Udale Bay; Autumn colours; herring in oatmeal (haven't had it since I left home); John's stories and I could go on."
Alison Boyd
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"Capercaille in front of the Steading; watching Otters & Badgers; seeing Golden Eagles; good food and good company."
Marina Harvey
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"There were too many to list, however, one in particular does stand out. We had amazing views of four separate Golden Eagles whilst coming down through Dundonnell Gorge on the West Coast day. One in particular was close enough to get a great scope view, so I could really appreciate the size and beauty of what is a great bird. Another was Steve & Mark's persistance in finding us a Ptarmigan. The weather forecast was foul, so we couldn't do the Cairngorn Plateau walk to look for them, so we took the funicular railway instead. It was freezing at the top with visibility coming and going and persistent rain, however, they came up trumps and we all enjoyed seeing another amazing bird."
Sean Moore
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"We came hoping to see Otters and Badgers and maybe Pine Marten. We saw Badgers and Pine Marten at the hide and Badgers again on the night drive. Otters were seen swimming at several locations with the highlight being one on the shore line in Tobermory."
Patricia Colbert
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"The Steading - a delightful relaxed place; Badgers & Pine Marten in the hide; Otter in Tobermory Bay; The scenery."
Denzil Colbert
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"This was the wettest holiday I have ever had but the group stayed amazingly good tempered including the guides. It must be so difficult for them to plan stops, etc., when it is raining. The new guide, Chrissie, is a great addition to your team. She is full of fun and chat, but very knowledgeable too. Craig was as good as ever."
Margaret Piper
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"Where to begin, this was a truly fantastic holiday. Admittedly the gorgeous weather was a contributing factor, but the stunning scenery, especially in Sutherland, was amazing. Having never seen a cuckoo in the flesh as it were, to see not one but three all together, was a real treat. Handa Island really lived up to expectations and the views of the Stack literally teeming with birds were awe inspiring. However, none of this would have been half as good without the two guides, Malcolm & Chrissie were without doubt absolutely brilliant, imparting knowledge enthusiastically but without lecturing. They both have a delightful sense of humour, which only added to the overall enjoyment. Chrissie is a marvellous addition to the guiding team and is a great ambassador for Speyside. We would unhesitatingly recommend the holiday."
Penny & Rod Fisher
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"The evening meal at the Rhiconich was exceptionally good. The variety of meals available and the quality of food was very good. The woodland scenery in the Speyside pine forests and the beaches of the North West were spectactular highlights of the holiday. The diversity of the wildlife from plants, insects and birds to Dolphins was interesting."
Alan Kinroy
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"The special highlights included: Pine Marten, Twin Flower, Scottish Primrose, Sea Eagle, Crested Tit, Golden Eagle. Overall we were impressed with the great variety of wildlife including Dolphin, Dragonflies, Butterflies, etc. We enjoyed the trip to Handa Island and the wildlife was very good. All round a very enjoyable holiday, p.s. Sutherland on our first visit was lovely."
Bob Steedman
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"So many highlights but the Pine Marten and Osprey with their chicks were great. I think the Scottish Primrose had to be the greatest highlight but there was Twin Flower, so many Orchids and Chickweed Wintergreen all in beautiful locations. My thanks to the two leaders whose knowledge, enthusiasm and sense of humour made this a very memorable holiday."
Barbara Steedman
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"One of my highlights was seeing a family group of Crested Tit in the conifers at Uath Lochans near the Steading. I have been to the area many times but have never seen them so close and in such detail. So absorbed was I with looking at them I forgot to take a photograph."
Peter Birkett
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"Dolphins jumping at Chanonry Point, Otters and White-tailed Eagles at Gruinard Island, Pine Marten at the night hide, Black Grouse lek at Boat of Garten - WONDERFUL!"
Rachel Fisher
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"We had a fantastic holiday with a like minded and friendly group of people."
Pam Waite
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"Accommodation - top hole; Cuisine - wholly delicious, we appreciated the choice of vegetarian options; Guides - extremely professional and careful, excellent company, I was amazed by their knowledge and powers of observation."
Bill Lintott
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"For many years I have hoped to see a Pine Marten, we were not fortunate during our SW holiday 11-22 Aug 2007. It was a real thrill to see one on this holiday - so close - about 3 feet away with just a pane of glass between us. It carried on eating, not bothered at all by the fascinated staring eyes. We have great views of many birds; the Ospreys and Red-legged Partridges stand out in my memory as does the Bottlenosed Dolphin. I should especially like to thank the Chef Darren about the excellent way he coped with my dietary requirements, his provisions met my needs very well indeed. Many thanks"
Sylvia Simpson
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"This Mull & Speyside Summer trip with Mark Denman and Dave Pierce was my first with the company. Many of the group of twelve had been before and were full of enthusiasm, and far more experienced birders than me, but with shared interests the group of all ages and from such varied walks of life became easy company, with our guides quietly eager that each of us should see what we had hoped to, or glimpse what we had missed the day before. Our days were full with 8am breakfasts to last you all day and tales of the early morning sightings from the keen .... we set off most days at 9, packed lunches packed, (did I say breakfast would last us all day?!) and the day planned around the forecast. (The weather and midges could have tried to be a little less Scottish!!) Our guides were incredible spotters and could identify a bird in an instant - by silhouette, flight pattern or call ..? Much pulling off the road and jumping out, with telescopes instantly trained on a distant creature that we couldn't see with the naked eye, bringing whatever it was to us in splendid clarity. On one occassion we had the group's seven scopes facing in three directions - one to the mountains trained on a Golden Eagle, perfectly camouflaged against the rock it was perched on as it preened itself, the second across the water high in a tree, a White-tailed Sea Eagle had a perfect vantage point, and the third to a pair of Otters on the nearside shore, curled as one for an after lunch nap, barely distinguishable in the seaweed that they lay on; even our guides were excited by our three in one. Wherever we'd been, whatever we’d seen we returned to our base at 6, with an hour or so before a three course dinner, - just time to sit in a local hide for a bit more spotting, or creep up on the Osprey nesting nearby the Steading (a highlight for me). Alternatively, there was the pub on Mull, or your postcards to write! After dinner we gathered for a group/guide meeting to collate the day's sightings and hear of the next days adventures; then more often than not - and so to bed - fresh air and jumping in and out of the minibus all day is surprisingly tiring! There were so many stunning momentary telescope sightings, often the small birds for me, a Sedge Warbler on a fence wire as we listened to Corncrakes, a Redpoll feeding on a dock seedhead - they stood all around him hung with rain drops full of light and a Whinchat singing its heart out amidst a crowd of Foxgloves. But my single 'Holiday Highlight' was alone on Mull, I'd set out towards Duart Castle at 5.30, a still, silent, Sunday morning. I'd been out for two hours photographing Red Deer, Oystercatchers with chick, Grey Heron, Mountain Hares, wild flowers and tadpoles! It was about time I headed back for the 'real day' - when I saw something in the water - I thought is was a Seal - but is wasn't - single Otter swam ashore. He saw me, snuffled conversationally and I replied in my best Otter, probably just repeating his annoyance at my disturbing his breakfast fishing, but with several peeking back out from behind rocks to see if I was still there and taking to the water again for a better look, he then returned with a mouthful of what I though was seaweed - on looking at the photograph I see it's a crab, but he just couldn't relax and eat knowing I was there, so I crept reluctantly away. I was glad I'd ordered porridge for breakfast, I felt I'd earned it! Such a thrilling close encounter in a perfect setting, and it looked like one or two of the 40 or so shots I had taken might be in focus! I was happy for telescope sightings after that. (I'll have to return another day to get to Duart Castle! I also want to see the heather in bloom.) So although these trips are not organised with photography in mind, there are opportunities and there was a powerful selection of lenses in our party. Much of the time I resorted to wild flowers - which were abundant, and Mark turned out to be as good on this wildflower identification as his birds - even knowing the odd beetle and butterfly that came by, and we had a night's moth trapping to view one or two mornings as an added bonus. A trip of friendly company, fine food, expert guiding and wonderful sights, many firsts for me, in a beautiful part of the world. Many thanks"
Louise Darby
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"This was a great holiday and I really enjoyed it. Everything at the Steading is always first class, good cuisine, excellent wine, good standard of accommodation. My highlight would have to be going to Loch na Kael on the first afternoon on Mull and seeing White-tailed Sea Eagle, Golden Eagle and Otter in the first hour. Going to Lunga was magical, seeing so many Puffins close up was amazing."
John Hornsby
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"Lunga was stunning, Mark & Dave had told me what to expect and last years trip report gave plenty of clues, but I really didn't expect the Puffin to peck my lens cap. A wonderful experience which I will remember forever. Dave's willingness to do early trips on Mull before breakfast a special treat with wonderful Sea Eagles. Both Mark and Dave so generous with their time, knowledge, expertise and patience - the trip was all I expected and then some more. Dave's midge dance stunning!!"
Steve Batt
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"Handa Island, the beautiful beach and sea, dockboards hard work but the stacks wonderful; the forest and woodland walks, such colour; the moors and Mountain Hares chasing each other; the Ospreys of course; Yellowhammers, Siskins, Crested Tit, Red Grouse chicks, the Red-backed Shrike, etc, etc.; the Otter! Thank you for a wonderful holiday"
Kate Creig
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"Too many delights to select a particular magic moment, but happy memories include two Cresties dancing on a branch and the apparently miraculous transformation of a clump of dead heather into a female Red Grouse with little yellow chicks. I've never seen Ptarmigan so close and the Black Grouse lek was worth every sleepy yawn en route! Huge thank you to John and Chrissie who led us to the sites and sights every day with humour and dedication and who had the same delight in the discoveries as we had. What could have bettered the return home than the knowledge that Darrens Delicious Delicasies would shortly be appearing on the table! Another wonderful week, thank you all!"
Kathleen Murray
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"Puffins, Pine Marten - great photos, movie of both. Climbing the Cairngorms on a beautiful day and seeing Ptarmigan and Dotterel. Waking up to great breakfasts and coming back from a fantastic day to great dinners. Great company with other guests and Steve and Chrissie. Great extra two days with Malcolm which finished on a great highlight as Malcolm spotted Otter on the West Coast - great photos and movie. All the other wildlife and birds we saw were of course excellent especially Golden Eagle, Sea Eagle and Capercaillie. We would love to come back!"
Josie Russell
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"Seeing the Pine Marten! Climbing in the Cairngorms and seeing the Ptarmigan and especially the Dotterel. Seeing the Golden Eagles soaring over the Strathconon Valley. Cresting the slope up to the stack on Handa and seeing all the seabirds - especially the Puffins (sorry, Steve!). Spending time with such a great group of people each day and enjoying great food too. Having the extra two days with Malcolm (what a great guy!) - saw Otters, Sea Eagles, Dolphins, Red Deer, Roe Deer and Reindeer - another Ring Ouzle and much more. Thank you all - we'll look forwards to a return visit some day!"
John Russell
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"Magic from beginning to end - even the weather on this occasion!!"
Patricia Shaw
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"Going up Cairngorm as far as the Northern Corries was brilliant, physically demanding, but rewarding. Never been that high or spent so much time on Cairngorms before, the sunny weather was an added bonus not forgetting we saw both Ptarmigan and Dotterel."
Terry White
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"Getting to the plateau on the Cairngorms in such glorious weather, the views were tremendous and quite overwhelming, getting to see a Ptarmigan for the first time was very special and moving, along with the peace and quiet."
Liz Woodford
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"Every day was memorable, not even the weather could spoil the week - credit to Craig & Chrissie keeping spirits up and showing us some fantastic wildlife. The base at the Steading was exceptional, great food and accommodation with Deer, Squirrels, Osprey and Crossbills within yards of the door, and after a masterclass in poo from Craig, we even found some Marten droppings. Highlight of the week - male and female Golden Eagle flying side by side up Strath Conan - all 7 girls in the party simultaneously speechless - need I say more! Thanks for a fantastic and unforgettable week, Craig, Chrissie, Sharon and Alan were brilliant, hope to see you at the Bird Fair in August."
Richard Kinsey
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"On the first day, the guides spotted an Osprey returning to its nest. This was after having spotted Mountain Hare already. They pulled in to the local churchyard and set up the scope. The Osprey was sitting on the nest, feeding on a recently caught fish. If I had had to go home at that point I would have been happy! I saw it again on 2 more occasions. Wonderful! It just got better and better for me. Jonathan somehow found a Sea Eagle sitting on trees over an "Aultrax Island" and got it firmly sighted in the scope. That was amazing in itself and then later that day the Minke Whale gave us magnificent views of itself on the North tip of Skye. The magic moment for me however, was the antics of our "adolecent dolphin" who deliberately set out to soak us in the boat. He even had a glint in his eye when he did it. The whole holiday was fantastic from beginning to end, despite being fed on by midges. I was really quite emotional on Saturday when we had to leave. I wanted it to carry on forever. Thank you so much to John Grierson and Jonathan Willet, they were brilliant."
Helen Morris
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"When booking this holiday I thought it was expensive, by the end of the holiday I thought it was well worth every penny. You can't have a holiday like this on the cheap. Highlights: Seeing a blowing in the distance off the north coast of Skye; being in the hide at night seeing Badgers, Deer but mainly a brave brave little mouse constantly running out for more food. The guides are invaluable, amazing how much they can see compared to other people."
Chris Morris
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"This was the first wildlife holiday I had experienced and I enjoyed every minute. I enjoyed the night hide watching Deer and Badgers and also when the Pine Marten showed up when we thought he wasn't going to. As Otters are my favourite animal I loved the moment we went into the hide at Loch Spynie and one of our number immediately spotted an Otter, especially as someone else had just spent the morning in the hide and seen nothing. The Findhorn Valley was absolutely beautiful. The Ospreys at Insh Church and at Loch Garten were amazing and the 2 boat trips were also wonderful, despite my fears of being on the water earlier in the week. Overall, thank you for an amazing holiday."
Sharon Burgum
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"My love of Dolphins and watching them meant that the trip on the Rhib from Cromarty was extra special. When a Dolphin did a roll very close to the boat my reaction of "WOW" was like a childs visit to Disney seeing Mickey Mouse for the first time. It was also very special to see a Pine Marten, Badgers were great, I never knew they liked eggs."
Chris Haynes
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"It was a superb holiday - totally different to any other that I have previously had. It was a lovely house party atmosphere throughout and I felt that my fellow guests had been handpicked - lots of laughs. Great humour and most enjoyable company. My most memorable experience was witnessing a Dolphin doing a belly roll in front of the boat clearly visible beneath the water and then surfacing alongside the boat - I was mesmerised. I am pleased that you do not operate an age barrier, at 80 years one expects some limitations and/or discrimination. Well done by All!"
William Chappell
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"I have never enjoyed a holiday as much as my first Speyside Wildlife trip. Even if I'd had to leave after the evening visit to the hide on the 2nd day where we saw 4 Badgers at once, the deer and the Pine Marten I would still have been happy. However, we had another 5 days of trips and wildlife sightings to go! I saw every creature I'd wanted to see and more. I also learned a lot from Simon and Chrissie who were excellent. I have been studying the 2010 brochures almost every day trying to choose my next holiday - but can't decide. My holiday highlight was the Findhorn Valley - sightings of the brids of prey and the adorable Mountain Hares through the scopes - thanks to Simon and Chrissie for their 'eagle' eyes in spotting them. It was like stepping out of the minibus into a perfect tranquil world untouched for centuries. Breathtaking beauty. Also - as a lone traveller it was an excellent choice of holiday. I was made to feel welcome and included at all times."
Sarah Jones
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"The highlight for me was the acting out of a scene reminicent of an African standoff with Leopards up a tree and Hyena below, only our action was 5 Badgers surrounding a tree containing 2 scowling Pine Marten. To see Pine Marten in broad daylight, Badgers within a foot, Dolphins leaping, Otters feeding, Owls hunting, every day was a highlight."
Roy Langford
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"We are new wildlife watchers, certainly in the UK at least, therefore we were spellbound to watch 5 Pine Martens plus 5 Badgers at the hide on our second evening, however, my personal highlight was viewing the Osprey nests - both the nest by the river near the Steading and observing a nest from a local churchyard. Seeing these birds in flight was very special. Red Squirrels always have a special place as both my husband and I remember seeing them frequently when we were children. Alas, they are now a rarer sight. We have seen them on the Isle of Wight so it was a great thrill to watch them at the other "end" of the country - from the hide at the Steading!! Another great moment was when Craig and Chrissie found the Sea Eagles in their scopes and we were able to watch these majestic birds on their very own island! The sea trip to see the Dolphins was brilliantly organised and crewed. Our guides fully respected the "Dolphin Space Programme" and we maintained a discreet distance but still had wonderful views of these magnificent animals. Many thanks Chrissie and Craig for everything - your enthusiasm has given us the taste for more such holidays."
Gillian Gooch
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"The night hide when the 6 Pine Marten came, then 4 went away when the Badgers started coming, 2 up a tree, then when one Badger stretched itself up the tree 1 left but returned when its mate wouldn't go and sat in the fork of the tree till the badgers had eaten all the peanuts; The first flight (4th pair) of one of the Ospreys on its nest; Charging around off the west coast in a high speed boat; Drifting off the east coast whilst the Dolphins appeared; Sight of wild goats up in the mountains; The good food, the all in nature of the holiday; The Reindeer; The peaceful walks alongside the river on some evenings seeing the butterflies."
Malcolm Walsh
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"I thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of the holiday and was hugely impressed by the standards achieved by Speyside Wildlife."
Sheila Julius
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"To me, any small white sea bird that dived into the sea was a 'tern'. In Udale Bay a tern was sitting on a post and was identified to me as a Sandwich Tern. Three days later, on a toilet stop, a tern was diving into the sea. I was able to recognise it as a Sandwich Tern without using my binoculars, I was delighted."
Carole Reeves
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"It is totally impossible for me to pick out one highlight as the whole ten days was pure magic for me. I suppose, if forced, I would choose the first time we saw Golden Eagle as it had been an ambition of mine for a very long time."
Jean Cox
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"I cannot praise our guides too much as they were so enthusiastic about the scenery, the wildlife and they were knowledgeable about the history o the areas we went to. They were united in their efforts to find what we wanted to see and made sure we all saw what it was."
Wendy Ap Rees
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"I would like to commend both our guides, it was my first group holiday and I was so impressed with their knowledge, experience, organisation and their hard work to enable the holiday to go smoothly. They certainly put in long hours and were always cheerful and putting our needs first. The variety in each day was very impressive. Their knowledge of the islands enabled us all to see a great variety of wildlife."
Moira Higgs
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"The Shetland and Orkney holiday was more than just a trip, it was a wonderful experience. We were fortunate to have good weather throughout which enhanced our enjoyment and the well matched leadership of Craig and Steve ensured that no opportunities were missed. Our transition from plane to boat to van to ferry to hotel was seamless and the leaders knowledge of birds, wildlife and the Island archaeology was impressive. Highlights included close encounters with Short-eared Owl, commando style crawls to see Otter and the Simmer Dim and Storm Petrels on Mousa, Thank you all."
Grainne Farrington
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"Daily itineraries well thought out, routes planned well each day, calling at various places on the way. Days planned so that if we'd had a late night (eg, going to watch for Storm Petrels on Mousa) the next day was a late start. Guides knowledge of the islands and where to find local wildlife especially rare birds and Otters."
Chris Lorch
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"The close views of Short-eared Owl hunting were great but the unexpected treat was the appearance of migration of Common Crossbill. Views of Otters were promised but not just how good they turned out to be. What a joy to see the carpet of Primula Scotia, so rare and so precious."
Peter Hamilton
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"Especial thanks to Sharon our cook at Ballantean, such enthusiasm and such a caring lady and good food. There were many highlights including Capercaille, that wonderful Dotterel, Findhorn (both sides of the A9), sea watching in the wind and rain, Red Grouse with very young chicks, and the Ospreys and the Golden Eagles, etc, etc, - Oh yes! The Slavonian Grebe - two males fighting, Parrot Crossbill, Restarts, etc, etc."
Laura Mynott
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"First, thank you very much indeed to the people who went to so much effort to arrange a cake for my birthday - not something I had expected at all. Please pass on my thanks to the hotel. Second, the enthusiasm, good humour and local knowledge of both Craig and Simon absolutely 'made' the holiday. Much enjoyed the informal approach at the Steading, plus the excellent food. I like the approach of including wine at meals in the holiday - it adds to the informal family atmosphere. Highlights - there were so many! Slavonian Grebe, divers in summer plumage, the Dotterel, all the raptors we saw, the Short-eared Owls on North Uist, Corncrakes, the sea watching at Balranald (and all the Skuas), Mike enthusing us all about geology on the Outer Hebrides, dolphins from the ferry, the weather, the Pine Marten, all the chicks (especially the Golden Plover and Red Grouse ones) - I could go on and on! Oh, and the scenery of course."
Sarah Carter
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“This was a memorable week for many reasons - delightful company, accommodation, food and most importantly the chance to see so much wildlife in superb surroundings. A special thank you to our wonderful guides and to all who so generously shared their knowledge. We have learned and observed so much…”
Joan Lintott
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"On the first day of our holiday we visited the La Paz Waterfall Gardens, and here we saw many different hummingbirds that were coming to the feeders. We stayed here for some time and I was fascinated in watching them and I took many photographs of them. We also saw many other birds in the gardens and I just knew that our visit to Costa Rica was going to be really special."
Pat Buckingham
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"My holiday highlight was the entire Tarcoles River boat trip, from the moment we walked along the jetty to get on board until we disembarked. There is something special about being on the water, in the sun, in view of the sea, with lots of birds easily seen. A feast for the senses."
Judith Smith
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"Take a sun lounger and a large glass of freshly made, ice cold lemonade. Add a flat calm Pacific Ocean, a deep red sunset over the in-shore islands, Howler Monkeys saying "goodnight" in the trees and an unbelieveable variety of birds and flowers vying to present the best combination of colours. That's La Gusinga and Costa Rica at it's best."
Alan Jefferson
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"Overall this was easily one of the best long haul trips I've ever been on …"
Jeanette Seaman
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"Another fantastic holiday, thanks, we had such fun and Craig and Dave were superb, a great asset to Speyside, thanks to Darren also, he accomodated my dietary requests superbly"
Cathy Thompson
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"You must get many comments about seeing Otters and Pine Martens at close range but we were surprised to witness Ravens 'seeing off' a Sea Eagle. Our guides, Craig & Dave then told us other things about Ravens which made them very special. As a regular sailor I was impressed to learn that they were carried on board by Vikings to help navigation if the ship got lost. We also were amused to learn that our guides had witnessed them playing at snow sliding in the winter. We were very impressed with the knowledge, patience and extraordinary hard work put in by your guides, in our opinion they were exceptional."
David Smith
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"Ptarmigan, excellent, guides worked hard to secure good views for us; Red Grouse, showed very well as did Divers, excellent; Pine Marten, did actually manage to see this year; White-tailed Sea Eagle, magnificent as was Mull, wonderful Isle; Otters, truly magical experience."
Andy Thurgood
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"The first day I saw a Crested Tit which the year before had been elusive, what a wonderful little bird; going to Mull and watching the White-tailed Sea Eagles; most of of all watching the mother Otter with her cubs, this was a memorable moment I will never forget. A big thank you to Craig and Dave for being such wonderful guides, you are very lucky to have such well informed guides working for you. Thank you All for making these holidays, holidays to remember forever."
Penelope Coomber
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"The awe inspiring sight of 3-4,000 Pink-footed Geese approaching and then fluttering down to land at Udal Bay"
Jean Hannam
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"Arran - just off the ferry seeing 6 or 7 different raptor species from one stopping place. Kildonan - 2 adult females and 4 kits playing near at hand, being given plenty of time to observe, etc. Islay - the geese of course, we appreciated the early dinners supplied by the hotel and the evenings out watching goose roosts, etc, with our guides. The Golden Eagle so close, flying initially below us and later right over us. The Islay Woollen Mill in its woods and little valley - hidden away - lovely (Sorn Valley) - dippers and woodland birds, an unexpected treasure. As always I must comment on the excellence of Simon Eaves and now the same for Steve Willis."
Catherine MacLeod
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“Snow in Abernethy Forest - not in the schedule but beautiful. Otter having breakfast! Difficult to pick such things!”
Jean Warren
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“Snow in Abernethy Forest - not in the schedule but beautiful. Otter having breakfast! Difficult to pick such things!”
Mike Warren
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"The first day was very exciting culminating with really close views of Great Bustard. Also, an early morning trip when we saw Spotted Cuckoos, hoopoe and Lesser Bustard not far from the hotel." "The hotel was in a lovely position with even a bee eater and Scops Owl at the gate!" " Mark found a Roller on the wires as we drove home on our last day - magic!"
Tessa Oliver
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"I was hoping to gain good sightings of hoopes, and this ambition was well satisfied. It was particulary magical when one hoopoe raised its crest as I was observing it." "Other memorable sights here: bee-eater, almost in profusion, two eagle owls in their natural habitat, and a large flock of white storks flying overhead with their wings glistening in the light of the sun."
Roger Oliver
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"Seeing the Eagle Owl on my birthday was special."
Heather Welcome
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"Difficult to pick out highlights, but brilliant views of white-backed woodpecker, nutcracker and eventually….Stellers Eider." "The evening out in the forest looking for Ural Owl, which was elusive, was lovely because it was still and the stars were out and we were able to get in some star gazing."
Mary Batchelor
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"So many holiday highlights! Just standing on my own in the rainforest near Bosque de Paz, imagining that I was miles away from the hotel, alone with the trees and the birds and the sounds of life around me. The boat trip up the mangroves on the Tarcoles River, when it was dusk and we were drifting silently into the inlets not knowing what would be round the corner in this mysterious place." "Watching collared aracari feeding on fruit. How delicatley they amnipulated berries with those huge mandibles." "Over and again being invited to 'see in the telescope' - and there was an exquisite gem of a little bird which took my breath away. Once it was a purple crowned fairy hummingbird on its miniscule mossy nest."
Liz Waumsley
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"For me there were three holiday highlights. One was a humming bird peeking out of its nest suspended behind a leaf. Another was a hawk seizing a large crab which, in retaliation, seized the hawks leg in a tight pincer grip. Sadly neither of these photgraphed well. The following is a highlight which did photograph well." "The attitude of this handsome white-throated magpie jay, as photographed, is suggestive ot its intelligence and enterprise. At breakfast time at La Ensenada it swooped under my chin to scoop a beakful of scrambled egg off my plate, folding and unfolding its wings at the crucial moment - a triumph of precision, daring and speed."
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