Heatherlea Birdwatching 2024/25 Brochure

2024/25

Birding and Wildlife Holidays in Scotland and Worldwide

Welcome to HEATHERLEA Your natural holiday choice birding and wildlife holidays

CONTENTS WELCOME TO HEATHERLEA

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Our Holidays Meet the Team Groups & Tailor-made Our base in the Highlands Field Notes

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SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

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Hogmanay Birding Extravaganza New Year Birdlist Booster Short break holidays NEW! Scottish Winter Specialities Highland Winter Birding Highlands and the Aberdeenshire Coast Highlands and the West Coast Birding in the footsteps of the Jacobites Highland Birding in March Highlands and Ardnamurchan NEW! Highlands and East Coast birding Spring into Scotland including Mull Scottish Highlands in Early Spring Highlands and Skye NEW! Spring Migration in the Highlands Birding the Highlands in May Highlands & Corncrake Birding the NC500 High Season across the Highlands NEW! Highlands and Ailsa Craig Highlands and Orkney Outer Limits in Summer Highland Wildlife in early Summer Eagles, Divers and Dotterel including Mull Butterflies, Dragonflies & Birds Highlands and Wester Ross Highland Mammals and more Highland Wildlife in High Summer Highlands and the Outer Hebrides Birds and Mammals, with Eigg & Muck Highland Birding in late Summer Autumn in the Highlands – Easy Walking NEW! Highland Migration by Land & Sea Autumn Migration in the Highlands The ‘Outer Limits’ Adventure Highland Autumn Explorer Highlands and Skye in Autumn Raptors & Grouse Highland Autumn Birding Scottish Wildlife in Late Autumn New in 2025…

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SCOTTISH ISLANDS

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Shetland – Up Helly Aa! North Ron and Orkney in Spring for birders Outer Hebrides in Spring Shetland in Spring for birders Mull, Iona and the Treshnish Isles Shetland Island Explorer Islands on the Edge Orkney Island Explorer Argyll Wildlife Inner Hebrides North West Scotland Explorer Ultimate Outer Hebrides

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Coll & Tiree in Summer 40 Shetland Wildlife in Summer 40 Mull & Ardnamurchan Explorer 41 Orkney in High Summer 41 Outer Hebrides in early Autumn for birders 42 North Ron and Orkney in early Autumn 42 for birders Shetland in Autumn for birders 43 North Ronaldsay in Autumn for birders 43 Outer Hebrides in Autumn for birders 44 Islay and Jura 44 New in 2025…

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NEW! Poland Romania – Danube Delta NEW! Slovakia Skyros Spain – Andalucia Spain Spain Sweden

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AMERICAS

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REST OF THE UK

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Norfolk and Suffolk Forest of Dean Cornwall in Spring Isles of Scilly in Spring Sussex, Hampshire & Kent Peak District, Yorkshire Coast and Norfolk in Spring South Wales in Summer North Wales in Summer West Cornwall in Autumn for birders Isles of Scilly for birders Lancashire and the Wirral Solway Firth New in 2025…

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NEW! Arizona Belize Brazil NEW! British Columbia NEW! Cape May for Birders Chile NEW! Colombia Costa Rica Costa Rica Cuba Ecuador & Galápagos NEW! Guatemala NEW! Jamaica, Dominican Republic & Puerto Rico NEW! Mexico NEW! Panama Peru Trinidad, Tobago and St Lucia

OVERSEAS

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REST OF THE WORLD

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Pre-flight service EUROPE Aberdeen to Arctic Armenia Azores Bulgaria Camargue Canaries Croatia Cyprus Czech Republic – Moravia Estonia Finland Georgia Hungary Iceland – Orcas, Eagles and Aurora Iceland Southern Ireland Italy – Po Delta and Venice Lesvos NEW! Madeira Mallorca

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Australia Bhutan NEW! Borneo Botswana China NEW! Ethiopia Gambia India NEW! Japan Kenya Morocco Namibia Nepal NEW! Oman South Africa NEW! Sri Lanka NEW! Tanzania NEW! Uzbekistan & Kyrgyzstan Vietnam

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How to Book Calendar

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Our thanks go to many people who provided images for use in this brochure. Our apologies to anyone we have missed!

Cover Photo: Crested Tit by Neil McIntyre Photos: Faraz Abdool, David Acfield, Jolene Allan, Suchit Basnet, John Bentham, Wind Birds Lda, Colin Bradshaw, Aidan Branch, Mark Caunt, Ryan Chenery, Mike Coleman, Peter Cosgrove, Jason Crook, Ian Currie, Cat Davidson, Wilson Diaz, Knut Eisermann, Barry Embling, Finnature, Ian Ford, Andy Foster, Clive Francis, George Gay, Dimiter Georgiev, Alister Giddings, Simeon Gigov, Gerard Gorman, Chris Grady, Toby Green, Tim Holter, Chris Hughes, Andy Jones, Rob Jordan, Tang Jun, Keith Kennedy, Pierre Kestemont, Ben Knoot, Phil Knott, Mukund Kumar, Wang LiQiang, Leon Marais, Wayne Marinovich, Emma McBride, Neil McIntyre, Martin Mecnarowski, Chrys Mellor, H Morales, John Muddeman, Marty Oishi, Gabor & Andrea Orban, Scott O’Hara, Uku Paal, Holly Page, Martin Pelaneck, Jari Peltomaki, Heinz Plenge, Dave Pullan, Alex Rhodes, Letaka Safaris, Becke Sigaty, Kevin Shaw, Ted Smith, Peter Stronach, Matt Sullivan, Chris Townend, Nigel Sprowell, Andres Trujillo, Jean Tye, Washington Wachira, Imogen Warren, Mark Warren, David Whitaker, Jorge Valenzuela, Mladen Vasilev, Michail Vorobyev.

This recyclable Brochure is printed on paper from responsible sources. All postage is made by recyclable envelope or polylope.

Welcome to our 2024/25 Brochure!

This year we are building on a record year at Heatherlea. More of you than ever before chose us in 2023, and we are of course very grateful for your support. We have enjoyed some incredible wildlife experiences in destinations around the world. In 2024 we celebrate our 34th season with more choice than ever, both in Scotland and overseas.

Here at our own Hotel in Nethy Bridge, ‘Mainland Scotland’ groups are small, with a high level of personal attention. We are birding all year round, with more than 36 different itineraries, many of which include overnight stays to iconic Scottish islands and destinations. Whether you join us for a week or for a shorter break, all tours include our famous hospitality at the Mountview Hotel and great birding!

Around the Scottish Islands, Heatherlea offer a unique gateway to beautiful, isolated places where wildlife is special, with fantastic holidays from Islay to Shetland. In 2024/25 we have several new itineraries and our expert, friendly guides make each experience truly memorable.

planning tours further in advance each year and we have designed this brochure to help you do just that. Don't forget with Heatherlea, you can place a provisional reservation without obligation for any tour more than 12 months ahead. Please also see our website, regular E- Newsletters and printed Brochures for full details and updates!

Thanks to all friends old and new who have joined us in the past, we hope to welcome you again in the future. Here’s to great wildlife watching!

The Heatherlea Tea m ‘High standards of customer care and a genuine passion for birding and wildlife make this a most rewarding experience.’

VisitScotland, Heatherlea assessment

Overseas our very popular Pre-flight Service saves you money, brings you comfort and makes everything easy. We include a pre-flight airport hotel, and airport lounge on our departures as standard. We also include a Bird Guide with many holidays at no extra charge and with just twelve clients per holiday, the accent is again on personal service to you, our valued customer.

This Brochure is our most comprehensive yet and includes all of our tours for 2024 right through until late 2025. With an outstanding selection of brand-new destinations, combined with timeless favorites, we feel that we have something to offer everyone! We understand that many of you are

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HEATHERLEA BIRDING & WILDLIFE HOLIDAYS

Heatherlea is your natural choice for birding and wildlife tours in Scotland and worldwide. With over thirty years’ experience of delivering exceptional holidays, we are firmly focused on finding wildlife for you to see, though only in a sensitive and sustainable way, and plan very carefully in advance to give you the best chances, in comfort and safety. Our fully inclusive tours include comfortable en-suite hotel accommodation, all food, transport and the services of top-quality experienced Leaders. Everything you need!

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Welcome to HEATHERLEA!

Ever since Kevin and Caryl Shaw first invited birdwatchers into their guest house – Heatherlea – in 1991, we have strived to provide the perfect balance of friendly, professional service, excellent wildlife watching in stunning landscapes, and a warm, homely hotel serving delicious, locally-sourced food.

From the early days of exploring the mountains and forests of Strathspey, we have slowly broadened our horizons to run holidays across the Scottish islands, and every continent on Earth. Our expert guides maintain the original family-run ethos, planning each trip in a sensible and sustainable way, ensuring each guest is treated to a real experience – wherever you are in the world.

HEATHERLEA BIRDING & WILDLIFE HOLIDAYS

Our recent change to an ‘employee-owned’ company means that the staff at The Mountview Hotel in Nethy Bridge – the Heatherlea HQ – are even more integral in the delivery of our holidays. The office, chefs and kitchen staff, housekeeping and front-of-house teams are all fully aware that the comfort and safety of the accommodation and travel elements of the holidays are equally as important as the bird list – who doesn’t enjoy returning to a roaring log fire and hearty, home-cooked meal after a day in the field?!

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As well as having fun and loving what we do, we make sure every guest is comfortable, feels included, and sees all the wildlife on offer. Behind the scenes we ensure that things are done properly, giving that extra peace of mind and security: Heatherlea hold an ATOL Licence (6113), granted by the CAA (Civil Aviation Authority), which guarantees the protection of all payments to us for every package tour booked by a UK or EEA resident that includes a flight; plus we hold specialist Tour Operator Insurance; and our hotel is wholly owned by the company.

After more than three decades of running successful birding and wildlife holidays, our dedication and enthusiasm to constantly improve the guest experience remains as strong as ever. So, whether you are a returning friend or somebody who is considering joining a trip for the first time, we look forward to sharing our knowledge and experience with you and welcoming you to Heatherlea.

tel: 01479 821248

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS WITH HEATHERLEA Your gateway to Scottish birds and wildlife!

Our hotel in the Scottish Highlands is exclusively used for birding tours.

We are based in the old Highland village of Nethy Bridge, located at the edge of the Abernethy Forest National Nature Reserve in the Cairngorms National Park. Our groups are small in size (max 14, 7 per guide), with a high level of personal attention, as we focus on wonderful Scottish birding all year round. Comfortable en-suite rooms, all meals, all transport, access fees and guidance are included, to give you everything you need from our top-rated birding holidays.

Although many key species can be seen near the hotel, from our central location (despite being in The Highlands, we’re only 30 miles from the Geographical Centre of Scotland!), we are easily able to take our minibuses in all directions to seek wildlife experiences, from the far north to both the east and west coasts.

Many of our Nethy-based holidays incorporate a night (or two) further afield to maximise the quality of the holiday, and to reduce the mileage covered! Highland holidays show you all the wildlife, and include all accommodation, food, travel, access fees and any ferry charges. With no single suppliement charged on these holidays, you get terrific value from our fully inclusive holidays, so book with confidence – there are no hidden extras! Turn to page 10 to read more.

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

OVERSEAS WITH HEATHERLEA Do it ‘The Heatherlea Way’!

From our first, tentative steps across the Channel into Western Europe in the early-noughties, we have gradually spread our wings, and teamed up with similarly-minded folk across the globe to offer a selection of hand-picked adventures, where we strive to see all the wildlife without overdoing it!

We have become great friends with many guides in many countries, and as a result, the relaxed and caring Heatherlea attitude is apparent everywhere we go. We still have holidays in Western Europe, and also Southern, Eastern and Northern Europe, the Arctic, North, South and Central America, and long-haul to Africa, Asia or Australasia - there is a world of choice with Heatherlea.

‘The Heatherlea Way’ involves looking after you with care whilst maximising your experience and giving value for money, with most holidays beginning before you even reach airport check-in, with our Pre-flight service. Go to page 54 for a look at some of our holidays.

SCOTTISH ISLES WITH HEATHERLEA Go a little further!

Scotland has over 800 islands around its coastline, and nearly all of them contain special wildlife. Throughout the year, we visit many of these islands (usually, but not always, the 94 inhabited ones!), and enjoy the huge variety of incredible habitats, landscapes, culture and the unique character that each island has.

We are experts on the Scottish isles, with many holidays focusing on the Outer Hebrides, Orkney, Shetland, Islay and Jura, Mull, Skye, Canna, Coll, Tiree, the Small Isles (Eigg, Rum and Muck), and some of the lesser-known smaller isles off the Argyll coast. These wonderful locations (and the ferries to get to them) hold accessible populations of Corncrake, eagles, skuas, Basking Shark, shearwaters, auks, geese, Otter, and rare, windblown migrants.

These holidays are also fully-inclusive, including travel to and from Nethy Bridge. Head over to page 32 for more details.

make new trips available, and in the fast-moving world of wildlife travel, new holidays are being launched every month. If there is a destination that does not appear in these pages, please contact us, as there is likely to be a holiday planned at some point, plus we like hearing from you!

HEATHERLEA BIRDING & WILDLIFE HOLIDAYS

Thank you for reading this brochure – hopefully it offers a glimpse into the holidays planned for the coming months and years! However, although it covers most of the basic details you need, there is always more information available on our website or by contacting us directly on the telephone or via email. We always issue a full itinerary with each holiday confirmation, but please check the website to ensure you know exactly what the content will be. As holidays sell out, we aim to

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Meet the HEATHERLEA Team!

Our highly experienced team is ready and waiting to organise your holiday and show you the wildlife, wherever you want to go!

Your holiday includes the services of a Heatherlea Guide, a very valuable asset. We are well known for great guiding and personal care, and our expert leaders know that the really important part of any holiday is the experience for you, our valued customer. Much more than a friend to help you identify birds, your Heatherlea Guide plans your entire holiday, from briefing on the first evening to round-up on the last. They organise everything to suit wildlife, weather and your progress through the week, and because our groups are small, they have time to care about your personal experience. This isn’t just whether or not you saw the bird or animal, but whether you are getting the most from your holiday.

Our core team are based in the UK and can be found in Scotland and further afield. Most have been working for Heatherlea for many years, and a quick check reveals around 140 years of guiding for Heatherlea across this part of our team! Read detailed Guide profiles on our website, where you can also see their current guiding itinerary.

Jenna Berry Originally from Hull, Jenna is a true Yorkshire lass, who took an interest in the natural world when she was given her first pair of binoculars at the age of seven. Jenna is a keen and capable birder who joined the Heatherlea team in 2020. Jenna leads tours around Scotland and Northen England.

Aidan Branch Aidan is the newest member of our team, joining in 2022. Born and raised in Lancaster, Aidan has been immersed in wildlife since a young age. In recent years he has been Assistant Warden at North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory; a spectacular spot to see bird migration at its best. He is an excellent birder, very popular with Heatherlea clients already, and a fully qualified ringer.

James Champion A newcomer to the Heatherlea team in 2022, James has been birding since he was a toddler. He first started guiding in 1995, has led many groups around Scotland and has also guided in Cornwall, Japan, China and in India, where he is a frequent visitor. He loves showing the special birds and wildlife of the area to the guests, and his enthusiasm and teaching skills enable him to pass on his knowledge in an engaging and positive way.

HEATHERLEA BIRDING & WILDLIFE HOLIDAYS

Mike Coleman Mike Coleman originally joined Heatherlea in 2002, although he began leading wildlife tours and undertaking invertebrate, mammal and bird surveys as a teenager before forging a career in language and education which enabled him to broaden his travels in search of wildlife experiences. Mike has led ornithological trips across Europe, Asia, North America, Africa and the Caribbean.

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Peter Cosgrove Peter is a professional ecoconsultant, keen birder throughout the Highlands and well-travelled overseas, leading for us in the Caribbean, Africa, Americas and elsewhere.

Andrew Crowder Andrew is an experienced naturalist and Tour Leader with a life long history of observation, study and sheer enjoyment of wildlife.

Andrew has spent extensive time in many parts of mainland Scotland and its incredible islands, both from the land and sea.

His other great wildlife passion is for cetaceans, with thirty years of experience studying them, and he also has skills in wildlife photography.

Simon Davies Simon is a life-long birder and naturalist. He grew up in the merry-go-round of Bird Observatories and Ringing Stations, spending time working at Dungeness, Fair Isle, Calf of Man, Spurn, North Ronaldsay and Skomer. More recently he has been sharing his experience with others through ringing demonstrations and training, as well as some more focused guiding in both polar regions building on previous wildlife-based guiding in Australia and in the UK. Barry Embling Barry joined us in 2019 and is a very popular member of our team. A keen birdwatcher and naturalist at home and abroad, Barry joins us again in 2024 and is looking forward to leading in Scotland, the rest of the UK and overseas.

Bernie Forbes Experienced leader Bernie loves sharing his passion for birds and his groups enjoy great birding.

Bernie has led many groups around Europe, North Africa and the Americas, and now extends Heatherlea tours into his native Sussex.

Ian Ford Ian first joined Heatherlea in 1999 and joins us again in 2024 as a Senior Guide. Ever popular, Ian will be leading groups from Orkney to the Outer Hebrides in Scotland, and overseas holidays including Gambia, Namibia and the Arctic George Gay George joined Heatherlea in 2019 as a Guide and has already become a firm favourite with our clients, as his ID and photographic skills are matched by his enthusiasm in the field!

Toby Green Toby joined Heatherlea as a guide in 2013, though he has been birding in Scotland and overseas for over 30 years. In addition to birding in Scotland, Toby has birded in many overseas countries including Goa, Cyprus, Seychelles, Spain, Costa Rica, South Africa and migration hotspots across Europe. A popular Leader in Scotland and around the world, Toby is a top birder with a great sense of humour, and boundless enthusiasm.

tel: 01479 821248

Scott O’Hara Scott is an enthusiastic and avid birder and general naturalist, and much of his time and holidays are devoted to his passion. He has birded all of Scotland's main island groups several times, with a particular love of the Uists and Orkney Isles. A Heatherlea Guide since 2015, Scott is a highly experienced and capable Tour Leader, with expertise in Europe, the Americas and Africa to add to his extensive Scottish knowledge.

Holly Page A keen birder from an early age, Holly moved from Lancashire to Strathspey in 2020, having joined our guiding team in 2019. A very experienced guide, Holly is a key member of the Heatherlea team having led many of our tours across the Highlands and Islands including Shetland and the Outer Hebrides, as well as several overseas tours under her belt. Holly has a passion for all wildlife including bees, hoverflies and beetles as well as eagles, divers and waders!

Dave Pearce Dave joined the Heatherlea team in 2020 and brings with him a vast array of knowledge. Birding since the early 1970s, he has travelled widely throughout Britain in search of birds, often in the pursuit of rarities, and has a particular interest in bird migration. He has also spent time birding in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, North America, Australia, Africa and the Caribbean.

Alex Rhodes Alex joined the Heatherlea team in 2019 and brings with him some sharp eyes and ears. Originally from the Southwest, he completed a BSc in Zoology at the University of Bristol and was a licenced ringer for a period of 5 years; during which time he frequented Fair Isle as a volunteer and worked at Falsterbo fågelstation in Sweden.

Chris Rodger Chris is an experienced birding guide and leader throughout Scotland with a passion for the ecology and landscape of the country. As a keen birder who has enjoyed some success in finding rare birds, Chris was appointed to the Scottish Bird Rarities Committee in 2021.

Kevin Shaw Kevin and wife Caryl founded Heatherlea in 1991. Kevin's personal ambition is to participate in every Heatherlea holiday in our itinerary, at least twice!

Mark Warren Mark joined us from North Ronaldsay in January 2016 and is now a popular member of our team in Scotland and around the world. An experienced birder and tour leader, with extensive wildlife knowledge and boundless enthusiasm, Mark looks forward to guiding for us again in 2024.

‘The whole day was very enjoyable and expertly led. To achieve an award of five stars, a score of at least 85% must be achieved.

Heatherlea score at this level or higher in every category, and the award of five stars is confirmed’.

VisitScotland Assessment email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

Our overseas guiding team are dedicated experts in the regions and countries they cover, and when working for Heatherlea are frequently required to provide services which make our trips unique.

This might mean upgraded accommodation, custom boat trips or cultural elements that we think you will like, and much more. Our office team are in regular contact before every trip, and our overseas agents and guides are always particularly well briefed. This might mean special attention to your diet, medical requirements, extensions to your holiday or anything else we can think of to improve your holiday experience. All are very experienced and great favourites of ours!

Esteban Biamonte Esteban is an excellent, experienced Costa Rican guide who has led for us on many tours.

A biologist with a Masters in bird conservation, Esteban has participated in various bird research and conservation programs, such as the designation of Costa Rica’s Important Bird Areas (IBAs). He is an active member of Unión de Ornitologos de Costa Rica and of the World Wetland Network, representing them at events such as 2008 Wetland Convention or Ramsar meeting and the 2010 Convention on Biodiversity meeting.

Ryan Chenery Born in Barbados, Ryan has been leading birding tours in the Caribbean for over 2 decades.

Before starting his own birdwatching company, Ryan combined leading his birding excursions with a full-time career in conservation. In addition to leading trips, Ryan also enjoys branching off to do other projects; most recently authoring the first field guide to focus exclusively on the birds of the Lesser Antilles.

Wilson Diaz Wilson Diaz is a biologist based in north Peru, who we first met in 2014, and he has led for Heatherlea many times in his homeland. A firm favourite with our clients, Wilson started birding whilst working on a conservation project focused on an endemic Peruvian hummingbird. He has travelled extensively across the country and is an experienced tour leader.

Gerard Gorman Gerard is Heatherlea organiser for Eastern Europe, and also leads for us elsewhere overseas. Wellknown as an expert on the world’s woodpeckers, and author of several well-informed birding books, Lancastrian Gerard lives in Budapest.

Andy Jones Known to many in his former role as 'The Iceland Naturalist', Andy Jones joins Heatherlea as a Guide.

Based in Iceland for more than 20 years he has led wildlife holidays and educational field trips to many countries and is a very experienced wildlife guide. Andy will lead a number of tours for Heatherlea in the next few years!

Tang Jun Has been guiding birding tours in China since 1999 and is a very experienced Leader throughout the country. The owner of our Chinese agent company, and vicechairman of Chengdu Birdwatching Society, we are delighted that Tang can join us personally this year.

Jozef Leestmans Jozef is a native of Flanders, and formerly a Reserve Manager for the Flemish Government and for the nature organisation Natuurpunt in Belgium. A highly experienced European birder, Jozef guided for Heatherlea for several years while he was living in the Highlands. Jozef leads our Armenia tour in 2024.

Paco Madrigal Our leader in Costa Rica for many years, Paco is widely regarded as one of the best wildlife guides in the country, with an extremely likeable, easygoing manner, and a complete knowledge of the birds of his homeland. We are delighted Paco will be leading for us again this year.

Stephen Menzie Originally from Liverpool, Stephen now resides in southern Sweden. He is an experienced birder, who has travelled extensively across the UK and the wider Western Palearctic, and is an enthusiastic guide. Stephen is currently editor of British Birds journal, as well as a member of the British Birds Rarities Committee. Stephen leads our Sweden in Autumn and Oman tours.

John Muddeman John is based in central Spain and is a highly experienced and capable birding Tour Leader. He quickly learned Spanish after moving permanently to central Spain in 1997. Numerous trips to Extremadura from the beginning culminated in the publication of "A birdwatching guide to Extremadura" in 2000. Following this he has guided extensively across the country, throughout the seasons. John is very much looking forward to your company!

Gabor and Andrea Orban Gabor and his wife Andrea guide for us in Mexico and Belize.

Gabor is our specialist birding guide, having led birding tours in Central America since 2006, and Andrea concentrates on the cultural aspects of the many Mayan sites we visit.

Uku Paal Uku started birding at the age of 11 and has been interested in wildlife ever since. He is a founding member of the Estonian Birding Club and has been a member of the Estonian Rare Bird Committee since 2002.

He has found four “firsts” for Estonia, and is also involved in bird ringing, field surveys and migration studies. Uku has travelled extensively in the Western Palearctic, Asia, Australia and USA, but his home, Estonia, remains his priority and Uku regularly guides for Heatherlea here.

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Sergi Sales Sergi is an outstanding Spanish birder, specialising in the birds of the Ebro Delta and steppe areas of his native Catalonia. Able to readily identify virtually everything he sees or hears, Sergi is a fount of knowledge and a valuable addition to our holiday team.

Chubzang Tangbi has always had a close connection with the environment and strongly believes in protecting Bhutan's biodiversity.

Having worked within tourism since 2000, leading wildlife and birdwatching tours through his native Bhutan, he set up his own tour company promoting Bhutan as a biodiversity hotspot and developing itineraries in uncharted areas. Today he is acknowledged as one of the country’s top birders and an award-winning wildlife photographer.

Andrés Trujillo Andrés is a world-renowned professional naturalist from Bogotá, Colombia. He currently lives in Quito, Ecuador. He is passionate about wildlife, forests, oceans, music and sharing conservation everywhere he travels. is a highly experienced tour guide in Colombia and Ecuador, with a comprehensive knowledge of the birds, mammals and other wildlife.

Andres has led trips for Heatherlea in Ecuador since 2008.

Washington Wachira Washington is an experienced birder and safari guide, awarded the African Sustainable Tourism Fellowship Award in 2016. He has led many birding trips and expeditions across East Africa and has a comprehensive knowledge of the birdlife of his native Kenya.

Steve West Steve, a lifelong birder and conservationist, hails from Hampshire originally before moving to Catalonia at the age of 24, where he lives until this day. Steve has led tours throughout mainland Spain on a regular basis in Catalonia, Aragon, Navarra, Extremadura, Andalusia, Castilla y León, Cantabria and Asturias. Steve speaks fluent Catalan and Spanish. We look forward to Steve joining the team in 2024.

Instagram: @heatherleabirds

HEATHERLEA BIRDING & WILDLIFE HOLIDAYS

Suchit Basnet Suchit is one of the most famous and sought-after Leaders in his native Nepal, where his extensive knowledge and sunny disposition brighten every trip. We are delighted to welcome him back for 2024.

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Meet the HEATHERLEA team!

IN THE OFFICE At our Heatherlea HQ in Mountview Hotel, Nethy Bridge, we have a dedicated team of expert wildlife tour consultants who are on hand to ensure your get the best possible holiday, from the initial booking process, to receiving your Trip Report after the end of your holiday.

Whether you wish to book airport parking, onward flights using our ATOL protection, to confirm personal requirements or just chat about the detail, please feel free to call or email.

Emma, Fleur, Holly, Jolene, Mark & Sarah are here to help plan your next wildlife adventure!

AT THE MOUNTVIEW HOTEL Our kitchen team is led by Head Chef Ettienne working alongside highly-experienced Chef Arek.

Expect a wide selection of fresh Scottish produce, sourced locally where possible, and prepared with skill and imagination.

Our kitchen is a hive of activity, and we pride ourselves on the artisanal nature of our food. As part of our policy of using the best, freshest produce, we manage our own kitchen garden, where produce is grown according to organic principles. Our garden provides our table with seasonal herbs, salad greens, vegetables and fruit; almost everything in summer has a flavour from our garden.

Our Front of House team is lead by Marzena, and she is often the first person to meet you on your arrival to the Mountview Hotel. Known for her attention to detail and kind manner, Marzena looks after the day to day running of the hotel with her small friendly team.

HEATHERLEA BIRDING & WILDLIFE HOLIDAYS

HEATHERLEA MERCHANDISE

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Our new Heatherlea beanies and baseball caps have proven very popular with our guides and office staff! Perfect for use out in the field in summer and winter, you can purchase these during your visit to the Highlands, or order by email for home delivery. We also have a range of Heatherlea T-shirts, sweatshirts and fleeces, so you can be prepared for all weather conditions on your Heatherlea holiday, whether it’s in the UK or overseas! Contact our office for more details.

tel: 01479 821248 email: info@heatherlea.co.uk web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

“Thanks for organising everything on our recent trip. Everyone involved in the tour from the Mountview Hotel staff to our bird guide Toby was brilliant!”

– A Binns

“Thank you to you and your team for helping put this adventure together. We had a blast! Your guides are the best. Our trip would not have been what it was without Mike and Scott. Highlights included the Dipper by the bridge early on, all the Curlews, and the male Yellowhammer what a surprise!

The champagne moment was the Ring of Brodgar. I also loved the forest walk on the first day, and let’s face it, there were lots of good moments! The Noss boat trip, the walk to Hermaness NNR and the cliffs (& seabirds themselves!), definitely the best picnic spot of the week!"

– J Stratto

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email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

Groups and Tailor-made Holidays with Heatherlea!

Heatherlea have been organising birdwatching and wildlife holidays for individuals, small groups of friends, bird clubs, and other wildlife organisations for over 30 years. Our experienced and highly capable team of experts are on hand to discuss your individual requirements so we can create the best itinerary for you, whether in the UK or abroad. We always strive to bring you the most competitive prices, excellent local naturalist guides and seamless ground services. You may want to see certain species, stay in a specific lodge, or fly with a preferred airline. Whether you want to explore the unique wilderness of the Scottish Highlands and Islands, go on safari in Africa, or watch hummingbirds in Costa Rica, we can help create your perfect holiday.

In Scotland we can offer the unique option to book our hotel in the Scottish Highlands for exclusive use. Our guides are locally based, and their knowledge of the area is unrivalled giving you an exceptional experience. As we own our hotel here at Heatherlea, we can tailor-make your tour to suit your budget! Whether it is a weeklong natural history tour, or a short birding break, we can design a bespoke tour based around your requirements.

For overseas tours we have a dedicated team of ground agents across the globe that are skilled in providing the best possible itineraries. From the beautiful cloud forests of Ecuador, to watching Polar bears on the pack-ice in the high Arctic, our wildlife holidays offer you the opportunity to experience an incredible wildlife adventure.

Browse the itineraries in our brochure for inspiration and start planning your next adventure. You may want a different pace of holiday, an alternative itinerary to suit your needs, or a mixture of birding and culture. Whatever your requirements we can take the hassle away from your holiday organisation.

HEATHERLEA BIRDING & WILDLIFE HOLIDAYS

Complete financial protection Every holiday we sell that includes a flight element is protected under our ATOL licence number 6113. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) will ensure you are not stranded abroad and will refund any money you have paid to us for an advanced booking.

Heatherlea also hold full Tour Operator Insurance for your added protection.

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Welcome to Nethy Bridge!

Nethy Bridge is an excellent base for Scottish birding, as seen on BBC Springwatch, Autumnwatch and Winterwatch. As we are located at the edge of Abernethy Forest, Crested Tit, Red Squirrel, Siskin and Great Spotted Woodpecker are regular visitors to our feeding station before breakfast! Osprey, Buzzard and occasionally Goshawk pass overhead, and Dipper breed on the clear River Nethy 200 metres away. Kestrel, Hobby, Merlin, Sparrowhawk, Peregrine and even Golden Eagle and White-tailed Eagle are on our ‘hotel list’. Woodcock can be found in spring and summer, Grey Wagtail, Goldeneye, several breeding waders, and even Otter and Pine Marten have all been spotted within a mile or two, especially along the nearby River Spey. In summer we may have Tawny Owl and perhaps Long-eared Owl or Quail in the village, and Black Grouse and Ptarmigan are within a few miles. With extensive local walks and trails in this unspoilt and delightful Highland location, early morning and evening birding is an exciting optional extra!

Nethy Bridge has an excellent general store/post office, with postcards, presents, newspapers and all the other little things you might wish for, a wellstocked butcher’s shop and deli with local produce, and a café to enjoy a relaxing drink and bite to eat during the day. ‘Nethy’ is just right – brilliant for birding, close to services, yet unspoilt and delightful in character. A real Highland village at the heart of the Cairngorms National Park!

We have carefully designed each holiday to give you the best wildlife watching according to changing seasons. That’s why our ‘Spring into Scotland’ holidays in April are very different from our ‘Eagles, Divers and Dotterel’ weeks in July, and our ‘Highlands in Autumn’ trips in October differ again. You can count on Heatherlea to find key Scottish wildlife whenever you visit – a wealth of wonderful experiences! Ideally placed to reach every important habitat, we can easily transfer east or west, to see that special bird and to add more highlights to a great week!

THE MOUNTVIEW HOTEL – your perfect birding base!

Our ‘Scottish Highland’ holidays are based at our own property, The Mountview Hotel, a 3star Edwardian Country House Hotel in the charming village of Nethy Bridge, in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. The Mountview is certainly well named; the peak of Cairn Gorm can be seen from our front door, and glorious views of three ranges extend many miles across the Cairngorms, Monadhliaths, and the four Kincardine peaks. The ancient Caledonian Forest begins behind the Hotel, and the River Nethy is just 200 metres away. The Mountview is set in two acres of attractive grounds featuring native Scots Pine and Silver Birch. Guests are welcome to explore, and in season you will find blaeberry and chanterelle.

Our busy bird feeding station attracts Crested Tit, Siskin, Redpoll, Goldfinch and our local Red Squirrel population, and our wildflower meadow holds Moonwort and Northern Marsh Orchid. You are also welcome to view our highly productive kitchen garden, which provides our table with seasonal herbs, salad greens and vegetables.

From the moment you arrive you will be made to feel at home. Inviting public rooms include a welcoming lounge with deep seated, comfortable sofas and open log fire; a peaceful reading room stocked with natural history books and magazines; a private residents’ dining room with fresh flowers and a well-stocked restaurant bar with glorious mountain views. Guests enjoy attractive en-suite bedrooms with comfortable beds, crisp white linen and fluffy towels, Freeview TV, hairdryers and a hospitality tray. WIFI is free of charge.

Good company, perhaps with your choice from a well-stocked bar, is an important feature of evenings after dinner. Above all, when birding is over for the day, we have attentive staff who take care of you and really make you welcome. Non-birding guests are welcome.

Our award-winning kitchen team is led by Head Chef Ettienne Els. Expect a wide selection of fresh Scottish produce, bought locally where possible, and prepared with skill and imagination by highly trained chefs. If you have special dietary needs, we cater personally for you and offer imaginative vegetarian and vegan dishes. Dinner is usually at 7pm, allowing time to relax after an exhilarating day in the field, and our groups eat together in our Residents’ Dining Room. You can expect a variety of traditional food, full of flavour and offering a delicious taste of Scotland. To accompany your meal, our Wine List offers high quality wines, and you can also choose from a wide selection of local beers, malts, other spirits (try our range of Scottish gins!) and soft drinks.

HEATHERLEA BIRDING & WILDLIFE HOLIDAYS

GETTING HERE IS EASY Reaching Nethybridge is easy. Here are some suggestions to help you plan.

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BY CAR From the west travel north to Perth. From the east travel via Forth Road Bridge and M90 to Perth. From Perth take A9 signposted Inverness and exit north of Aviemore. Follow signs northeast through Boat of Garten to Nethy Bridge (10 miles). In Nethy Bridge, drive through the village, over the River Nethy, and you will see our sign 200 metres ahead on the right.

BY RAIL The best train to Aviemore is operated by London North Eastern Railway.

This leaves London Kings Cross at 12.00, arriving Aviemore at 19.22. This train stops at York (13.55), Darlington (14:24), Newcastle (14.56) and Edinburgh (16.33). Change of train may be required at Edinburgh. We recommend you connect with this service if possible.

From the west, travellers can reach Edinburgh direct from Plymouth, Bristol, Birmingham, Crewe or Preston. In general, rail travel via Edinburgh is easier than via Glasgow, where a trip across the city between stations is needed, often followed by a change at Perth.

will need to change train at Inverness Centre to connect with Aviemore departures.

Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Inverness Airport directly to Inverness centre, or Nethy Bridge. If you have any queries, please feel free to contact our office.

Return trains to Edinburgh leave Aviemore at 08.30 (fast train to London –recommended), and 10.20. Please check details before you travel. Rail enquiries: 03457 484950, www.nationalrail.co.uk.

Disclaimer: This information is published to help you, though we offer no guarantee of services. Please check all details before you travel!

BY AIR Direct flights to Inverness are available from Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, Bristol, Manchester, Belfast & Amsterdam. For up-to-date flight information, call our office.

There is a train station at Inverness Airport, although trains are infrequent, please check times before you travel. Please note that you

tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

Transfers between Nethy Bridge and Aviemore – FREE! Our courtesy collect and return service runs between Aviemore and The Mountview Hotel.

Pick-up is at 16.30 hours and 19:30 hours, and drop-off at 08:20 hours and 10:20 hours, on SATURDAYS ONLY. Please give at least 24 hrs notice when booking.

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

Field Notes – Scottish Highlands ‘Scottish Highlands’ holidays include everything you need for a great birding holiday. En-suite accommodation, all food including breakfast, packed lunch and dinner, all minibus transportation, ferries, access charges, guidance and much more are included in the price.

There are no hidden charges. Expenses including travel to The Mountview Hotel, insurance, drinks and other items of a personal nature are not included in your holiday price.

How our Scottish Highlands holidays work: Breakfast is usually at 7.30am. We leave for a full day (with a substantial packed lunch!), returning about 5.30pm – 6.00pm for dinner at 7.00pm.

Expect a wide variation of weather, whenever you visit Scotland! Bring warm clothing, waterproofs, and walking boots or shoes. Bring binoculars and a telescope if possible. A camera may be useful too!

WALKING Walking is generally light to moderate for most tours. Each holiday has specific details about the level of activity involved and these are included in the Tour Information Pack. If you can walk a few miles over the course of a day, you will find these holidays very comfortable. Some days contain hardly any walking at all, as we take you directly to key sites. An exception is mountain day, where walking can be strenuous, particularly in the months April – July when we usually require a long walk to see Ptarmigan and Dotterel. You can ‘opt-out’ of this day if you wish. An ‘Easy Walking’ itinerary is available on specified holidays, including a different location to look for Ptarmigan.

BITING INSECTS Biting insects are not expected January to April, or October to December.

In the months May to September, biting insects may occur. We don’t linger around standing water, and if insects do appear, we move away!

MINIMISING WASTE Picnic lunches prepared at Heatherlea are virtually free of disposable plastic.

We don’t use plastic water bottles or cutlery, and re-usable lunch boxes and mugs are provided for drinks. We ask all partner agents and hotels around the world to do the same.

BINOCULARS and TELESCOPES We recommend you bring your own binoculars and telescope. As an extra service, Heatherlea offer a loan service of high performance Swarovski binoculars FREE OF CHARGE for the duration of your holiday. Your guides are also equipped with Swarovski telescopes which they are happy to share, though of course you might have to wait for a look! Please book loan binoculars in advance; availability is limited and cannot be guaranteed.

IMPORTANT NOTES The interests of wildlife come first on a Heatherlea holiday. We never disturb or alarm wildlife, and fully support countryside and birdwatching codes of conduct. We also respect the wishes and instructions of landowners and ask our guests to adopt the same approach.

All itineraries are given as a guide only. Actual holiday content may vary according to the judgement of your guide, and elements beyond our control (e.g. weather).

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HEATHERLEA BIRDING & WILDLIFE HOLIDAYS

Your holiday (based on a full week itinerary) includes: 4 Seven nights en-suite accommodation. A VisitScotland approved three-star hotel, The Mountview Hotel in Nethy Bridge has 12 comfortable en-suite rooms.

4 THERE IS NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT, and guests are never expected to share.

4 Some Mainland Scotland holidays include a second centre for either one or two nights, usually in hotels, occasionally in good quality B&Bs. Most of these have hosted Heatherlea holidays for many years, and we know them well.

4 Six days birding with Heatherlea, including full Scottish breakfast, a substantial packed lunch (six days) and a delicious dinner.

4 The services of your Heatherlea Guide during six full days birding, including optional early and late excursions.

Maximum group size seven clients per Guide.

4 All transport by comfortable minibus.

4 All access fees, ferry charges and transfers.

4 Saturday courtesy pick-up and return service to Aviemore.

4 A checklist specifically prepared for your holiday to record your sightings and notes.

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WELCOME TO THE HIGHLANDS Your gateway to Scottish birds and wildlife!

Heatherlea is Scotland’s premier birding and wildlife holiday operator, and we offer holidays from Nethy Bridge every week from January to late-November. You can come in any season – wildlife is always great in this part of the world! From rugged mountains to ancient forests and wonderful, unspoilt coastlines, you will visit Britain’s most breathtaking scenery.

We are not ‘intensive’ or ‘twitchers’, but on our Highland weeks you can generally expect 100 – 135 species depending on the season, including key Scottish species. We are dedicated to showing you wildlife, regardless of your experience, and many of our guests become good friends visiting year after year.

Your guide will be a member of the Heatherlea guiding team. Our guides are very experienced Scottish leaders with unbeatable patience and local knowledge. Highly skilled birders and real ‘people people’, they can’t wait to show you the wonderful wildlife of the Scottish Highlands! Relax and enjoy your holiday as we look after the details and find wildlife for you. No wonder our groups have a happy and friendly atmosphere! As a result of this, we were also the first mainland Wildlife Experience to be awarded five stars – the highest possible rating by visit Scotland.

Weekly holidays begin with dinner on Saturday evening, though you are welcome to arrive any time after 3pm. The holiday finishes after breakfast on the final Saturday. Don’t forget our courtesy collection and return service to Aviemore on Saturdays – see ‘Getting here is Easy’.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

For more details, including a Trip Report from any of our recent holidays, see our website . If you have any questions, please contact us, we will be happy to answer any queries you may have. Emma, Fleur, Jolene, Holly, Mark and Sarah are here to help.

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tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

HOGMANAY BIRDING EXTRAVAGANZA A brilliant start to birding in 2025!

SAT 28 DECEMBER 2024 – SAT 4 JANUARY 2025 Price: from £1695pp Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

Many of you are looking for special birding at this time, and this holiday is a real cracker!

Come to the beautiful Highlands for a wonderful Hogmanay (we usually have snow on the mountains), and enjoy a bird-filled end to 2024, followed by five full days to begin 2025 in style.

We aim to see as many species as possible, and this tour is ideal for all birders who want an exciting winter holiday, as well as those who keep lists. During the last birding days of 2024, we spend time inland looking for Ptarmigan, Black Grouse, Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Scottish Crossbill and Crested Tit, mingling our efforts with exciting coastal birding, which could produce a big range of wintering specialties, uncommon or rare vagrants.

Hogmanay is a time of great celebration in the Highlands, and on the night itself guests might have the opportunity to visit a nearby party, which could typically involve live music and dancing. Held in the open air, this is entirely subject to vagaries of the weather, so wrap up well! For those who prefer to stay indoors we will celebrate ‘The Bells’ in the warmth, toasting the old year list with a variety of local malt whiskies!

We begin New Year's Day full of anticipation, and with three full days at our disposal, Scottish specialities will be high on the itinerary again to round-up as many key Highland species as we can! We spend at least one full day birding the Moray Coast, with options to venture further north to the 'Black Isle' or Sutherland, east into Aberdeenshire or out to the stunning west coast. Keen to accumulate a high bird-list, with our finger on the pulse we search for known rarities on coastal days such as Snow Goose, American Wigeon, Green-winged Teal, Ring-necked Duck, Surf Scoter, King Eider, Iceland, Glaucous and Little Gull, Little and Great White Egret, Waxwing, and Great Grey Shrike – all of which have occurred in the last two years! By the end of the holiday, you should have seen many 'difficult' Highland birds you might otherwise miss without a guide, or which rarely turn up further south in the UK. Other wildlife should include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Grey Seal, Common Seal, Mountain Hare and possibly Otter.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS New Year Birdlist Booster (p11).

Seven nights at the Mountview Hotel.

NEW YEAR BIRDLIST BOOSTER Get your New Year birdlist off to a great start with a week of birding across the Highlands from coast to coast!

SAT 4 JANUARY – SAT 11 JANUARY 2025 SAT 11 JANUARY – SAT 18 JANUARY 2025 Price: from £1295pp Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

This holiday is great birding fun, so get your yearlist off to a cracking start! We aim to see as many birds as possible, and this exciting holiday is suitable for birders who want to see Scotland’s birds in winter, as well as those who keep lists.

Top priorities will be resident special birds, so we spend time inland looking for Ptarmigan, Black Grouse, Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Scottish Crossbill and Crested Tit - our key species. We also have outside chances of seeing Capercaillie, increasingly rare, and any sightings will be incidental. Next, we seek a host of northern winter visitors, and finally round-up rarities and anything we might have missed. By the end, you should have seen around 120 species including many 'difficult' birds you might miss without a Guide, or struggle to locate further south in the UK.

During the holiday we spend time inland in the adjacent Caledonian pinewoods of Abernethy Forest for speciality birds, visit the Cairngorm Mountains to see Ptarmigan, and explore remote glens for eagles and other raptors. Northern coastal habitats provide great birding in winter, and with the Moray Firth, Aberdeenshire, the West Coast and secluded bays north of Inverness all within reach, our prospects are excellent. We will spend a lot of time at the coast, particularly targeting rarities. King Eider and Surf Scoter are regular, others more than possible. Your Guides will closely monitor weather, tides and local bird news to make sure we maximise our birding as we use all the available daylight (around eight hours per day).

Seven nights at the Mountview Hotel.

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Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Birders Blast (p12), Hogmanay Birding Extravaganza (p11).

Instagram: @heatherleabirds

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

Holidays are based here at the Mountview Hotel, with all transport and expert guidance from our resident team. The whole Hotel will be given over to our holiday, meaning a great birding atmosphere as the entire week is run BY birders FOR birders, a very enjoyable prospect!

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SHORT BREAKS & BIRDERS BLASTS 2024 Birding Short Breaks in the Scottish Highlands.

Ideal for your first wildlife holiday, or for busy birders who don't have a full week to spare, these holidays are an exciting ‘dip’ into the birdlife of the Highlands, which should find many of the key specialties and a host of northern birds difficult to see elsewhere in Britain. Our extensive local knowledge will take us to the best places to maximise our birding time.

All include four nights DBB (Dinner, Bed and Breakfast), plus three full days’ birding with an experienced Heatherlea Guide. Great fun and superb birding!

SHORT BREAKS are easy-paced and target the birds which make Scotland such a special destination for so many birdwatchers. Great for beginners.

BIRDERS’ BLASTS are perfect for all levels of birding ability, but run at a slightly faster pace, packing in a lot of birds and lots of sites to maximise our species list.

Birders’ Blast in Winter Sun 28 January – Thu 1 February, Thu 1 February – Mon 5 February, Mon 5 February – Fri 9 February, Fri 9 February – Tues 13 February, Tues 13 February – Sat 17 February 2024 See Golden Eagle, Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Black Grouse, Ptarmigan and more. Add waders, seaduck, divers, gulls and farmland birds and you have an absorbing and rewarding few days of winter birding.

Short Breaks in Autumn Sat 26 October – Wed 30 October, Sun 3 November – Thurs 7 November 2024

Birders’ Blast In Autumn Wed 30 October – Sun 3 November, Thurs 7 November – Mon 11 November, Mon 11 November – Fri 15 November 2024.

See Golden Eagle, Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Black Grouse, Ptarmigan and much more. Add rare geese, seaduck, divers, waders, gulls and farmland birds, and you have an absorbing and rewarding few days birding during November.

Price from £595pp.

No single supplement. Full details are on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9. Please see our website for 2025 departures.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

OUTLINE ITINERARY:

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DAY 1: Arrival, welcome, dinner and briefing. Don’t forget our courtesy collect and return service to Aviemore.

DAY 2: LOCAL SPECIALITY DAY An early rise for Black Grouse will get us off to a great start before breakfast, and you might see Red Grouse too. After breakfast we visit ‘hotspots’ in Caledonian pine forests to see Crested Tit, which can usually be found locally. Scottish Crossbill are found in the forests too and with both Common and Parrot Crossbill also present, separation of these three species can pose a real identification challenge! Depending on the level of the snow in the mountains we may look for Snow Bunting and Ptarmigan too.

DAY 3: EAGLE DAY Today is a firm favourite at Heatherlea, as we visit remote Highland glens looking for Golden Eagle, our top target. In suitable weather we spend most of our time in beautiful upland surroundings where we can expect sightings of other species, possibly including Peregrine, Red Grouse, Buzzard and Raven. White-tailed Eagle may also be seen as their numbers continue to increase locally. Red, Roe and Sika Deer, Mountain Goat and Mountain Hare may also be seen. Many guests tell us this is the day they were hoping for when they chose to holiday in Scotland; top birding amid superb scenery!

DAY 4: COASTAL DAY A complete contrast as we visit the Moray Coast, where birding is excellent at any time. This day is perhaps the most exciting, as every single minute can hold the unexpected. There are rafts of Common and Velvet Scoter, plus good numbers of Long-tailed Duck, Goldeneye, Goosander and Red-breasted Merganser. Redthroated Diver and Slavonian Grebe may also be found offshore, and in recent years we have seen rarities including King Eider, Surf Scoter and White-billed Diver.

Iceland and Glaucous Gull are both regular, and many wader species can be expected. In the fields, Whooper Swan herds and geese flocks are worth checking for scarcer species and other farmland birds may include Corn Bunting, Tree Sparrow, Grey Partridge and Yellowhammer. A great day's birding!

DAY 5: FINAL DAY Breakfast and departure This outline itinerary is a guide only, actual holiday content may vary according to elements beyond our control (e.g., weather). tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

HIGHLAND WINTER BIRDING A week of Scottish birding across the Highlands featuring a two-night stay on the remote North Coast!

SAT 17 FEBRUARY – SAT 24 FEBRUARY 2024 SAT 15 FEBRUARY – SAT 22 FEBRUARY 2025 SAT 22 FEBRUARY – SAT 1 MARCH 2025 Price: from £1395pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

February is a great month for birding in the extreme north of the British mainland, and this holiday is something a little bit different, featuring remote northern hideaways as we locate the very best Scottish birdlife in winter. Our speciality birds include Ptarmigan, Black Grouse, Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Golden and White-tailed Eagle and we look for these during approx. two absorbing days birding the Scottish interior, which may be frozen and/or snowcovered at this time. Flocks of Waxwing, Lesser Redpoll, Twite and Brambling are very possible while northern rarities including Great Grey Shrike, uncommon geese and gulls are often found at this time. We also have incidental chances of Capercaillie, though these birds are very rare.

We visit local glens with Golden Eagle our top target, and Buzzard, Treecreeper, Siskin, Hen Harrier, Red Grouse, Sparrowhawk and White-tailed Eagle are more than possible. Ptarmigan are all white in winter, as are Mountain Hare.

Activity at the coast features concentrations of winter visitors offshore, and rarities and scarce British birds sheltering in harbours. Gulls, waders, geese and ducks, divers, passerines and raptors, just about anything can turn up! We make an exciting expedition over three days to the very far north, staying in Thurso for two nights, and visiting secluded harbours and windswept lochs to find the birds that make this holiday so special. You will probably visit four different coastlines, the very far north in Caithness, the rugged east-facing coast north of Inverness, the long expanse of the Moray Firth, and either Aberdeenshire or the west coast, depending on available birding opportunities and of course the weather.

This is a time of year when tourists are few on the ground, and wild landscapes and solitude (you won’t see many other birders!) are to be combined with exceptional birding.

Other wildlife should include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Grey Seal, Common Seal, Mountain Hare, and possibly Otter.

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel. Two nights at a comfortable hotel in Thurso.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Birders Blast (p12), NEW! Scottish Winter Specialities (p13).

NEW! SCOTTISH WINTER SPECIALITIES Scotland's best winter birding in local habitats and out on the coasts.

SAT 24 FEBRUARY – SAT 2 MARCH 2024 SAT 1 FEBRUARY – SAT 8 FEBRUARY 2025 SAT 8 FEBRUARY – SAT 15 FEBRUARY 2025 Price: from £995pp No single supplement. Full details on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

Inland specialities on this tour may include Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Ptarmigan, Black and Red Grouse, and winter is a good time to try and see them all. Golden and White-tailed Eagle are equally likely in the hills, or during a day trip exploring the mountainous west coast where we also hope to see three species of diver, Black Guillemot and Slavonian Grebe. Other raptors may include Goshawk, Hen Harrier and Merlin, with Snow Bunting possible both in the mountains or at the coast. Perhaps it will be a ‘Brambling year’ or a ‘Waxwing winter’, or will there be a Great Grey Shrike holding down a winter territory?

During visits to the Moray Coast and Black Isle we can expect a wide variety of species both on land and offshore. Tidal estuaries support large numbers of waders and wildfowl and sustainable, wildlife friendly farming offers plenty of feeding opportunities for Whooper Swan herds, geese and passerines. Winter gulls can include gleaming white Iceland and Glaucous Gull and sea-duck will feature highly. Velvet Scoter, Long-tailed Duck and Scaup are likely offshore or in more sheltered firths, with chances of a rarity or two such as a King Eider. A great new tour for both the seasoned regular and guests birding in Scotland for the very first time.

Seven nights at the Mountview Hotel.

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Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Birders Blast in Winter (p12), Highland Winter Birding (p13), Highlands & the Aberdeenshire Coast (p14).

Twitter: @heatherleabirds

Instagram: @heatherleabirds

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

With snow-capped mountains and a high variety of birdlife, mid-winter is a fantastic time to visit the Highlands. A good time of year to search for all the Scottish specialities, the weather can certainly play its part as hard conditions force forest dwellers into the open or to take advantage of feeding stations.

Northerly storms can deliver rarities on the coasts and being based at the Mountview Hotel throughout, we have ultimate flexibility to plan the week according to weather, tides and bird reports.

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HIGHLANDS and the ABERDEENSHIRE COAST Exciting late-winter birding across the Highlands, with TWO nights in Aberdeenshire!

SAT 2 MARCH – SAT 9 MARCH 2024 SAT 1 MARCH – SAT 8 MARCH 2025 Price: from £1395pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

This late winter holiday combines favoured birding areas with some new and exciting sites. With two nights away on the east coast, we have a superb opportunity to fully explore rural and coastal Aberdeenshire, featuring some of the best birding areas in Scotland. Our coastal birding will focus heavily on waders and wildfowl, with a good amount of time spent seawatching. We have excellent chances of finding our own rarities and will build a healthy birdlist from the mountains down to the sea. We will spend time exploring Royal Deeside too, a great birding area with rich pinewoods, stunning rivers, and glens with the Winterwatch site of Mar Lodge right at its heart.

Top local targets include Black Grouse, Crested Tit and Golden Eagle, with local Dippers near nest sites and Goosander and Goldeneye on the rivers. Local goose flocks often contain migrant birds and we are vigilant for stray Bean, White-fronted, Snow or Ross's amongst the commoner Pink-feet and Greylags.

In Aberdeenshire, we have time to explore, working a good selection of favoured harbours and bays, with journeys between the sites that pass through mixed open land favoured by finches, waders and farmland birds.

This whole coastline is massively under-watched, with very few resident birders. We have excellent chances of rarities, this being a good time for White-billed Diver, King Eider and rare gulls. Offshore we should find good numbers of Scoter, Divers and Auks, with the bonus of Purple Sandpiper and Turnstone. We return west through mixed farmland, birding near the River Dee and around the previous Winterwatch site of Mar Lodge. With luck we may pick up Scottish or Common Crossbills, Goshawk, Golden Eagle and Red Grouse amid stunning scenery.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS NEW! Scottish Winter Specialities (p13), Highlands and the West Coast (p14), NEW! Birding in the Footsteps on the Jacobite’s (p15).

We look for Ptarmigan and Snow Bunting, using telescopes to locate the birds before walking closer (late snow or heavy melt can make conditions difficult). Local waders should be returning, and Lapwings and Oystercatchers may be displaying in rough pastures.

Our final day may be in Strathspey, dropping down to the Black Isle or perhaps even an extended day over on the west coast, where we look for White-tailed Eagle, Otter and Black-throated Diver.

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel. Two nights at a comfortable hotel on the east coast.

HIGHLANDS and the WEST COAST A week of birding across the Highlands featuring a night away in stunning Wester Ross.

SAT 9 MARCH – SAT 16 MARCH 2024 SAT 15 MARCH – SAT 22 MARCH 2025 Price: from £1395pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

An enjoyable spring holiday including an overnight visit to the rugged and remote West Highlands. As spring arrives, we celebrate the season with visits to all of the best birding and wildlife sites. This holiday takes in some of our most stunning and iconic scenery, all the while enjoying superb birding and general wildlife.

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Local birding should produce Black Grouse popping and cooing at the lek, Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Dipper, Buzzard and Goldeneye.

We head west, working remote sealochs, bays and beaches as we go. Rugged Wester Ross offers iconic scenery, and we have excellent chances of Otter.

There could be good numbers of Great Northern, Black-throated and Red-throated Diver, plus Slavonian Grebe, Common Scoter, Red-breasted Merganser, and passage waders and gulls that often include Iceland and Glaucous.

The next day we target eagles, with Golden and White-tailed both likely. Mid-March is also good for passage Merlin, with early Wheatears if winds are favourable. We have another chance for Otters, whilst scanning for rarer seaduck or divers. This time of year can also be good for White-billed Diver on the under-watched west coast and we will check Great Northern Divers carefully for their rarer cousins.

Later we search for moorland specialities including Golden Eagle, Peregrine, Merlin and as spring develops, Wheatear. The day finishes with a moorland drive for Red Grouse. We seek Ptarmigan, Snow Bunting, Blackthroated Diver, Red-throated Diver, Goldeneye and Peregrine, and birchwoods hold Lesser Redpoll and Siskin.

Lingering Waxwing and Whooper Swan are sometimes present too.

Birds on the Moray Coast can include Osprey, Eider, Goosander, Merganser, Stonechat, Common and Velvet Scoter, Long-tailed Duck, Great Northern and Red-throated Diver, Glaucous Gull, Iceland Gull, Purple Sandpiper, Turnstone, Bar-tailed Godwit, Knot, Dunlin and Ringed Plover, many moulting into breeding plumage. Watch out also for Corn Bunting, Tree Sparrow, Yellowhammer and Grey Partridge. We often see tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

Bottle-nosed Dolphin, and with auks, Gannet, gulls and more, this is a rewarding day!

Mammals may include Otter, Common and Grey Seals, Mountain and Brown Hare, Red Squirrel, Red and Roe Deer and perhaps Harbour Porpoise or Bottle-nosed Dolphin.

Six nights at the Mountview Hotel. One night at a comfortable hotel on the west coast.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlands and the Aberdeenshire Coast (p14), Highland Birding in March (p15), Highlands & Ardnamurchan (p16).

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

HIGHLAND BIRDING in MARCH Brilliant northern birding as Spring begins.

SAT 16 MARCH – SAT 23 MARCH 2024 SAT 8 MARCH – SAT 15 MARCH 2025 Price: from £1495pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

A thrilling holiday across the Highlands, designed to maximise our birding as winter turns to spring. Speciality species include Scottish Crossbill, Crested Tit, Black Grouse, Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Ptarmigan, Snow Bunting and good chances of Slavonian Grebe and three or even four diver species in breeding plumage. Winter birds will still be with us in good numbers and one of the main advantages of birding this far north is the opportunity to see many species at close quarters. We will also pay attention to rarities within reach, and this can be an excellent time for ducks, geese, gulls, raptors and passerines to augment an already outstanding birding experience.

The second half of March is one of the best times to visit. Our wildlife is busy, breeding birds are keen to attract a mate and migrants are on the move. Summer visitors are beginning to arrive and there will still be plenty of wintering geese, wildfowl, waders and gulls around – great variety beckons! Based at the Mountview Hotel, we have maximum flexibility to plan the week according to weather, tides and bird reports. The outline itinerary allows for three days at the coast and three days in Strathspey and the Cairngorms, though if we are successful with our key targets locally, we may adapt plans daily to increase your birdlist. A definite highlight will be a stunning visit to the west coast - we will pick the best day possible; there is nowhere better than the West Coast of Scotland on a nice spring day! This holiday takes in some of our most stunning and iconic scenery, all the while enjoying superb birdlife and general wildlife as the season turns to spring.

In recent years, our small groups have enjoyed some fantastic Highland birds and winter wildlife experiences. The flexible itinerary has helped our groups see many rarities on previous trips, including White-billed Diver, Snow Goose, American Wigeon, Blue-winged and Green-winged Teal, Ring-necked Duck while influxes of Waxwing and Brambling have proved equally memorable. Exciting raptors, including Goshawk, Hen Harrier, White-tailed Eagle, Merlin and Peregrine become more active during March. Golden Eagle are displaying, Black Grouse are especially active on the lekking sites and Crested Tit may even be heard singing as spring really starts in the Highlands.

Mammals may include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Grey Seal, Common Seal. Otter, Mountain Hare, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise are possible.

Seven nights at the Mountview Hotel.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlands & the West Coast (p14), Birding in the Footsteps of the Jacobites (p15), Highlands and Ardnamurchan (p16), NEW! Highlands & East Coast Birding (p16), Highlands & the West Coast (p14), Birding in the Footsteps of the Jacobites (p15).

BIRDING in the FOOTSTEPS of the JACOBITES Birding and history unite in this unique holiday.

SAT 9 MARCH – SAT 16 MARCH 2024 Price: from £1395pp No single supplement. Full details are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

On this holiday you can expect all the usual targets such as Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill and Black Grouse with exciting raptors, including Goshawk, Hen Harrier, White-tailed Eagle, Merlin and Peregrine become more active during March. Golden Eagle are displaying, Black Grouse are back on their lekking sites and Crested Tit may be heard singing as spring really starts in the Highlands.

Coastal birding is particularly enjoyable with newly arriving migrants complementing wintering birds, sightings can include Osprey fishing, rafts of Common Eider, Goosander, Red-breasted Merganser, Common and Velvet Scoter, Long-tailed Duck, Great Northern and Red-throated Diver, Glaucous and Iceland Gull, and spring waders including Purple Sandpiper, Turnstone, Bar-tailed Godwit, Knot, Dunlin and Ringed Plover. Rarities often include Surf Scoter or King Eider. We often see Bottle-nosed Dolphin, and with auks, Sandwich Tern, Gannet, Corn Bunting, Tree Sparrow, Yellowhammer, Grey Partridge and more, this is a really rewarding day!

This is a wonderful time to visit the Highlands and being based solely at the Mountview Hotel, means we have complete flexibility on this trip. A unique departure that combines wildlife watching with visits to famed historical sites in the Highlands of Scotland, gives the tour a different focus to our usual offerings.

This trip is ideal for those who love history as well as birding and any walking will be gentle and at a relaxed pace. Approximately 25% of our time will be spent on the historical sites and 75% birding.

Seven nights at the Mountview Hotel.

Facebook: heatherleabirdwatching

Twitter: @heatherleabirds

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlands and the Aberdeenshire Coast (p14), Highland Birding in March (p15), Highlands & Ardnamurchan (p16).

Instagram: @heatherleabirds

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

An exceptional holiday combining the best of Scottish Highland birding and historical sites relating to the ill-fated Jacobite uprisings of the 18th century. We visit sites associated with both the rebels and the government such as Culloden Battlefield, Urquhart Castle and the Glenfinnan Monument.

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HIGHLANDS and ARDNAMURCHAN All the highland specialities combined with exciting mammals on the West Coast.

SAT 16 MARCH – SAT 23 MARCH, SAT 23 MARCH – SAT 30 MARCH 2024 SAT 15 MARCH – SAT 22 MARCH, SAT 22 MARCH – SAT 29 MARCH 2025 Price: from £1595pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

A very different itinerary, with displaying and breeding resident birds, winter visitors still present in good numbers, and the first arriving spring migrants. We also enjoy a two-night expedition to the remote and wildlife-rich Ardnamurchan peninsula, where the birding can be unforgettable, and where we might encounter some special mammals.

In Strathspey we are placed in the middle of the best birding habitats, and a local drive should produce Black Grouse popping and cooing at the lek. Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbill are found in the pine forests and Slavonian Grebe, Whooper Swan and many breeding wader species are likely as we enjoy the best of local birding. In the moorland and hills we search for raptors including Peregrine, Merlin and perhaps the first returning Osprey. A moorland drive may give views of Black-throated Diver on lochs. Capercaillie are increasingly scarce, and we no longer look for them at this time of year, though incidental sightings are possible.

The Ardnamurchan peninsula is a hidden jewel, a wild, beautiful, remote area in the heart of the West Highlands with stunning scenery and some of the best places for wildlife in the UK. We are based close to Glenborrodale, where one of our chefs will join us to cater to Mountview Hotel standards! We enjoy warm ensuite rooms and exclusive occupancy with easy access to the best wildlife. Birding includes both eagles, Raven, Black Guillemot and the first spring passage waders perhaps including Greenshank. Mammals could be spectacular, with the possibility of Pine Marten coming to our bait at the property, visible from the comfort of our living room. A night drive gives outside chances of Wildcat, and Otter are found in nearby Loch Sunart.

Later we look for Ptarmigan, Snow Bunting, Goldeneye, Peregrine, Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbill. Local birchwoods hold Lesser Redpoll and Siskin flocks, Slavonian Grebe, Whooper Swan and waders. Waxwing are sometimes present. A real celebration of Highland wildlife in early spring!

Key mammals including Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Grey Seal, Common Seal, Mountain Hare and Otter. Pine Marten, Badger, Fox, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise are possible.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlands & the West Coast (p14), NEW! Birding in the Footsteps of the Jacobite’s (p15), Highland Birding in March (p15), NEW! Highlands & East Coast Birding (p16) Spring into Scotland (p17), Scottish Highlands in Early Spring (p17).

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel, two nights on the west coast.

NEW! HIGHLANDS and EAST COAST BIRDING Birding across five regions - our only tour targeting Hawfinch, Bearded Tit and the iconic Highland specialities!

SAT 23 MARCH – SAT 30 MARCH 2024 SAT 22 MARCH – SAT 29 MARCH 2025 Price: from £1495pp No single supplement. Full details on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

Late March is a great time to visit the Highlands, and on this new tour we target some very special birds. With spring on the way, local species are busy at the start of their breeding season and winter visitors are on the move north. Birding across five regions, this is our only tour targeting Hawfinch and Bearded Tit – two scarce Scottish species which only occur at a few sites north of the border.

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A two-centre holiday, we explore hotspots and lesser-known places within Strathspey and the Cairngorm National Park, and the East Coast, where a host of great sites await in Perthshire, Angus and Aberdeenshire. We will spend time exploring Royal Deeside too, a great birding area with rich pinewoods, high mountains, stunning rivers and glens where Ptarmigan, Golden Eagle and perhaps an early Ring Ouzel are possible.

Local specialities feature as always, including Scottish Crossbill, Crested Tit, Black Grouse, Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Ptarmigan, Snow Bunting and good chances of Slavonian Grebe and three or even four diver species in breeding plumage. Winter birds will still be with us in good numbers, and one of the main advantages of birding this far north is the opportunity to see many species at close quarters. We will also pay attention to rarities within reach, and this can be an excellent time for ducks, geese, gulls, raptors and passerines to augment an already outstanding birding experience!

KEY MOMENTS at our Friday round-up - which will be yours?

• Hawfinch and Bearded Tit – scarce Scottish birds perhaps on the same day • Black Grouse on the lek and Ptarmigan in the hills.

• Numbers and variety of waders, wildfowl and gulls around the Angus coast.

• Slavonian Grebe and Black-throated Diver in sparkling summer plumage.

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel, two nights Kirriemuir. tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highland Birding in March (p15), Highlands & Ardnamurchan (p16), Scottish Highlands in early Spring (p17), Spring into Scotland (p17).

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

SPRING into SCOTLAND including MULL A week of Highland birding with TWO nights on the magical Isle of Mull.

SAT 30 MARCH – SAT 6 APRIL, SAT 6 APRIL – SAT 13 APRIL 2024 SAT 29 MARCH – SAT 5 APRIL, SAT 5 APRIL – SAT 12 APRIL 2025 Price: from £1595pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

Perhaps the ultimate spring wildlife experience in Scotland! All resident birds are displaying or breeding, winter birds are still here in good numbers and summer visitors are arriving daily. We enjoy a two-night stay on the magical Isle of Mull, giving us plenty of time to enjoy the fabulous birding and unforgettable scenery on offer. An incredible time to be birding in Scotland!

In Strathspey we are placed in the middle of the best birding habitats, and a local drive should produce Black Grouse popping and cooing at the lek. Red Grouse are present here too and after breakfast we head for the hills to seek Ptarmigan. The mountains may also produce Snow Bunting, early Ring Ouzel and Raven, and we may see Red-throated Diver, Goldeneye, Peregrine and Crested Tit as we descend, plus Redpoll and Siskin flocks in local birch woods. Scottish Crossbill are found in the pine forests and Slavonian Grebe, Whooper Swan and many breeding wader species are likely as we enjoy the best of local birding. In the moorland and hills we search for raptors including Peregrine, Merlin and perhaps the first returning Osprey. A moorland drive may give views of Black-throated Diver on lochs.

A major feature will be our time on Magical Mull. We journey west, watching out for Black Grouse, Black Guillemot, Common Seal and Hooded Crow as we travel, and may see our first eagle after we cross Loch Linnhe onto the west coast. Once on the island we target iconic wildlife at sites we know well, immediately looking for White-tailed and Golden Eagle, Hen Harrier and Short-eared Owl on the hills and moors. We stay for two nights here, allowing a full day to enjoy eagles, Otter, migrating Slavonian Grebe, Goosander and divers. Lesser Redpoll and Stonechat, with the first arriving Golden Plover, Greenshank and other moorland species are found around the high interior.

We also enjoy a great day birding along the Moray Coast, where newly arriving migrants complement remaining winter visitors. This day can easily include rafts of Common Eider, Goosander, Common and Velvet Scoter, Long-tailed Duck, Great Northern and Redthroated Diver, Glaucous and Iceland Gull. Lots of spring waders include Purple

Sandpiper, Turnstone, Bar-tailed Godwit, Knot, Dunlin and Ringed Plover maybe in bright breeding plumage. We watch out also for farmland specialities including Corn Bunting, Yellowhammer and Grey Partridge, which are all still found on this fertile northern coastline. Sandwich Tern have arrived, and with Gannet, Fulmar, auks, gulls and more this is a really rewarding day.

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel. Two nights at a comfortable hotel on Mull.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS NEW! Highlands & East Coast Birding (p16), Highlands and Ardnamurchan (p16), Scottish Highlands in Early Spring (p17), Highlands & Skye (p18).

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS in early SPRING Wonderful birding in Scotland as winter turns to spring.

SAT 30 MARCH – SAT 6 APRIL, SAT 13 APRIL – SAT 20 APRIL 2024 Price: from £1395pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

On local days we search for Crested Tit, Scottish and Common Crossbill in the forests, territorial Dipper, Goosander and Goldeneye on the rivers and Red and Black Grouse on the moors. The latter can be particularly active at this time of year, males popping and cooing at the lek in their attempts to attract females. Waders too will be busy displaying, and likely are Golden Plover, Lapwing, Redshank, Curlew and Snipe while Slavonian Grebe, Red-throated and Black-throated Diver will be freshly returned to their breeding lochs and perhaps in breeding plumage. A good time of year for raptors, we investigate several great sites for Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Goshawk, Hen Harrier, Merlin and Peregrine including on the Glenlivet Estate, where Heatherlea have exclusive vehicle access. On the Cairngorm plateau we look for Ptarmigan and Snow Bunting, with chances of early returning Ring Ouzel and Wheatear.

Around the Moray and Black Isle coasts we will see a large variety of birds, with seaduck, waders and gulls around the estuaries, bays and harbours, and geese and farmland species in the fields.

Possible are Scaup, Eider, Red-breasted Merganser, Common and Velvet Scoter, Long-tailed Duck, Great Northern Diver, Purple Sandpiper, Knot, Dunlin, Sanderling, Black and Bar-tailed Godwit and perhaps a Glaucous or Iceland Gull. A good time of year for rarities, past sightings have included Snow Goose, King Eider, Surf Scoter, White-billed Diver and Ross’s Gull – anything can be possible as newly arrived migrants complement remaining winter visitors. A day touring the West Coast will be another highlight, with divers, auks including Black Guillemot, passerines including Twite and Rock Pipit, plus Otter, seals and perhaps cetaceans among the featuring wildlife.

Facebook: heatherleabirdwatching

Twitter: @heatherleabirds

An absorbing week of spring wildlife experience in Scotland and based entirely out of the Mountview Hotel we are perfectly placed to take full advantage!

Seven nights at the Mountview Hotel.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS NEW! Highlands & East Coast Birding (p16), Highlands and Ardnamurchan (p16), Spring into Scotland including Mull (p17), Highlands & Skye (p18).

Instagram: @heatherleabirds

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

A unique time of year when two seasons overlap, there is plenty of variety on offer in this itinerary with winter birds still in situ just as the harbingers of spring arrive. On this flexible tour, we explore the Strathspey forests and moors, the Cairngorm plateau and take day trips out to the Moray Firth, Black Isle and the rugged West Coast in our quest for a large bird-list.

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HIGHLANDS and SKYE in SPRING A superb week of birding across the Highlands including two nights on the stunning Isle of Skye.

SAT 13 APRIL – SAT 20 APRIL, SAT 20 APRIL – SAT 27 APRIL 2024 SAT 12 APRIL – SAT 19 APRIL 2025 Price: from £1595pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

A fantastic holiday from Heatherlea, featuring a rewarding few days on Skye. Key targets here are Golden and White-tailed Eagle, and we should enjoy prolonged views of both as they contest territories.

Travelling to or from Skye we seek roadside Ptarmigan on a mountain pass if weather allows. On arrival on the ‘Misty Isle’, we visit wild and remote corners where birders seldom venture, with plenty of time to scan for Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Peregrine, Merlin and Hen Harrier. Along the miles of coastline, we catch up with Great Northern Diver and Black Guillemot, and migrants are possible at these under-watched locations, often showing very well. These may include scarcities such as Whimbrel, Greenshank and White Wagtail, with Wheatear, Stonechat, Whinchat and Meadow Pipit turning up everywhere on the heaths and rough pastures. We have chances of Otter, with seals and Harbour Porpoise offshore too. We have chosen our timing carefully, targeting three diver species (very occasionally four with White-billed!) in full breeding plumage.

The rest of our time is spent around our home territory in Strathspey, where a great spring experience awaits. Resident birds are breeding, many summer visitors are now here, and birding is excellent with Black Grouse busy on the lek plus Crested Tit, Redpoll, Siskin and Scottish Crossbill. This is a very cost-effective way of including Skye in your Highland birding holiday, combining the island with all our special spring birds.

One day we visit the mountain for Ptarmigan if needed and possibly Snow Bunting. On a round-up day we target missed species or visit the Moray Coast for exciting birding.

This time of year produces a high birdlist, with large numbers of wintering birds overlapping with those arriving to breed.

Other wildlife should include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Grey Seal, Common Seal and Mountain Hare. Bottle-nosed Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise are possible.

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel. Two nights at a comfortable hotel on Skye.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Scottish Highlands in early Spring (p17), Spring into Scotland inc Mull (p17), NEW! Spring Migration in the Highlands (p18).

NEW! SPRING MIGRATION in the HIGHLANDS An exciting new tour with northbound migrants taking centre stage.

SAT 27 APRIL – SAT 4 MAY 2024 SAT 19 APRIL – SAT 26 APRIL 2025 Price: from £1495pp No single supplement. Full details are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

One of our most flexible spring tours to date, we focus specifically on migration, enjoying day trips to coastal hotspots and hidden gems in our quest to build a large bird-list. Anything goes on this new tour, featuring a boat charter to search for White-billed Diver or a last-minute hop aboard a ferry for skuas and other seabirds in the Minch. Spring migration can be an exciting time of year, and in the right conditions we can see large numbers of migrant waders or passerines making landfall on their northbound journeys.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

Based entirely in Strathspey, we of course dedicate time to our own Highland specialities. Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Black Grouse, Slavonian Grebe, Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbill will all be looked for. Summer breeders including Ring Ouzel, Redstart, Tree Pipit, Pied Flycatcher and a host of warblers will be fresh in and full of song. By not searching for time-consuming species such as Ptarmigan, there are more opportunities to explore and go birding around the Scottish coasts. Be it to the east, north or the west - the choice is ours!

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KEY MOMENTS at our Friday round-up - which will be yours?

• Highland Specialities including Black Grouse on the lek.

• A Spring rarity on the sea such as White-billed Diver, King Eider or Surf Scoter.

• Golden and White-tailed Eagles, plus other raptors in the hills.

• A fall of migrant passerines on the Scottish east coast.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlands & Skye in Spring (p18), Birding the Highlands in May (p19).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS North Ronaldsay & Orkney in Spring for birders (p34).

Seven nights at the Mountview Hotel.

tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

BIRDING the HIGHLANDS in MAY A fantastic week of birding across the Highlands, from the Cairngorm mountains to both coasts.

SAT 4 MAY – SAT 11 MAY, SAT 18 MAY – SAT 25 MAY 2024 SAT 3 MAY – SAT 10 MAY, SAT 17 MAY – SAT 24 MAY 2025 Price: from £1595pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

Birding the wonderful Scottish Highlands in May is one of the greatest pleasures available in the UK. With summer visitors arriving in good numbers, and key speciality birds still displaying or breeding, there is so much going on. We enjoy six tremendous days of wildlife watching, and all within striking distance of our Hotel here in Nethy Bridge. All the special birds of the Scottish Highlands are in our sights, and this is a perfect option to make the most of this wonderful time of year.

An ideal tour for the first-time visitor or the seasoned expert, 'Birding the Highlands in May' offers a wealth of variety. On local days we look for forest specialities including Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbill, plus Slavonian Grebe on moorland lochans. Raptors including White-tailed Eagle will be at the fore on a day touring the stunning west with breeding plumaged Red-throated, Black-throated and Great Northern Diver and Otter Mammals should include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Grey Seal, Common likely too. Our Troup Head boat trip, scouring cliffs busy with seabirds will be another Seal and Mountain Hare. Bottle-nosed Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise are highlight, while time exploring estuaries, coastal bays and farmland on the Moray and possible.

Black Isle help amass a high birdlist!

Seven nights at the Mountview Hotel.

And, just when you thought you had been everywhere with Heatherlea....

Crown Estates and Royal Deeside .....we came up with a brilliant addition to our spring itinerary! This brand-new day takes you eastwards from Nethy Bridge to uncover some real delights. The Black Grouse lek here is a great start to our day, and we watch for breeding Goshawk nearby. Travelling through fields of waders we reach Royal Deeside to have a chance of Ptarmigan without walking, before stopping to look for raptors which might include Golden Eagle, Hen Harrier, Peregrine, Osprey and Red Kite among other species. On the Crown Estates at Glenlivet, we have exclusive vehicle access to secluded spots. You won’t see many other birders, and from these we are well placed to look for Golden Eagle, Merlin, Raven, Ring Ouzel, Red Grouse and a range of other woodland and moorland species. In previous years we have seen ten raptor species on this day!

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS NEW! Spring Migration in the Highlands (p18), Highlands & Corncrake (p19), High Season Across the Highlands (p20).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS North Ron & Orkney in Spring for birders (p34), Outer Hebrides in Spring (p35) Shetland in Spring for birders (p35), Mull, Iona & Treshnish Isles (p36), Shetland Island Explorer (p36), Orkney Island Explorer (p37), Islands on the Edge (p37).

HIGHLANDS and CORNCRAKE The best of the Highlands and Outer Hebrides in Spring.

SAT 11 MAY – SAT 18 MAY 2024 SAT 10 MAY – SAT 17 MAY 2025 Price: from £1695pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

May is a fantastic month for wildlife watching in the Highlands. Summer visitors have all arrived, the breeding season is in full swing, and the weather is normally warm and pleasant. On this exciting two-centre holiday we spend time enjoying all the species which make Scotland so special. We combine the tranquil Caledonian pinewoods and the vast Cairngorm mountain plateau with two nights on the Outer Hebrides, as we add sought-after Corncrake to our enviable target list. This is our only seven-night itinerary which combines all the key Scottish mainland species with Corncrake, a unique opportunity!

Facebook: heatherleabirdwatching

species and another birding the Moray Coast where farmland birds and perhaps a rarity may feature!

Mammals may include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Grey Seal, Common Seal. Otter, Mountain Hare, Minke Whale, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise.

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel. Two nights on the Outer Hebrides.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Birding the Highlands in May (p19). Birding the North Coast 500 (p20).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS North Ronaldsay & Orkney in Spring for birders (p34), Outer Hebrides in Spring (p35), Shetland Island Explorer (p36).

Twitter: @heatherleabirds

Instagram: @heatherleabirds

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

Each year Heatherlea watch Corncrake on the Outer Hebrides from early May, so by these dates we know where the birds have been showing, with excellent chances to see them before the vegetation grows too high and obscures the view. On this brief visit Corncrake are our principal target, though with a full day to explore, both White-tailed and Golden Eagle can also be expected in reasonable weather. Hen Harrier and Short-eared Owl are frequently seen, and on our ferry crossings we can expect any (or all!) of the four skuas plus auks including Puffin and Black Guillemot, Gannet, Manx Shearwater, Shag, Fulmar and Kittiwake. Waders in bright breeding plumage and birds of the ‘machair’ including perhaps Corn Bunting will add to a memorable experience.

Back home in Strathspey, all the specialities are settled and breeding, and we search with care for Black Grouse, Red Grouse, Ptarmigan, Dotterel, Snow Bunting, Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Osprey, Ring Ouzel, Dipper, Goldeneye, Black-throated Diver, Red-throated Diver, Slavonian Grebe, and many more. We visit a variety of habitats from the Caledonian pinewoods adjacent to Mountview Hotel, open moorland, lochs, rivers and fields of Strathspey and neighbouring areas which hold these special birds. We will spend most of one day on the Cairngorm plateau targeting key

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Birding the NORTH COAST 500 Northern wildlife on one of the world's most scenic road trips!

SAT 18 MAY – SAT 25 MAY 2024 SAT 17 MAY – SAT 24 MAY 2025 Price: from £1945pp Single supplement: £275.

Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Max 7 clients.

Magnificent wildlife amid some of Scotland’s finest scenery is firmly on the agenda on this spectacular journey around some of the country’s most northerly coastal points, feted by holidaymakers and travel writers alike as one of the best road trips in the world.

Our tour takes you to the best places for wildlife. There will be many highlights, such as Handa Island, Dunnet Head and Duncansby Head for their seabirds. The Flow Country of Caithness and Sutherland is fantastic and unique, often deemed to be as important a habitat as the Amazonian Rainforest! At RSPB Broubster Leans, breeding waders and passerines are on territory and passage Whimbrel, Short-eared Owl, Merlin and Hen Harrier may be seen. Many other excellent sites on northern coasts are visited on this holiday. Icelandic bound waders in summer plumage may be found on any number of pristine golden beaches, the Applecross peninsula may yield both eagles and Ptarmigan, and Otters or perhaps cetaceans may be encountered off more rugged coasts. This holiday really does offer a huge range of the best wildlife northern Scotland offers in spring!

Above all, this is an exciting birding adventure in under watched spots. We will visit seabird colonies featuring Puffin, Guillemot and Razorbill densely packed and huddled together on cliff ledges, many will be about to lay eggs. Kittiwake, Fulmar, Shag and ‘Rock Dove’ can be expected too. The sound and smell of these northern colonies complete the experience. Good numbers of nesting waders and waterfowl, including scarce northern species such as Red-throated Diver, Black-throated Diver, Hen Harrier, Great Skua, Arctic Skua, Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Black Guillemot, Twite and much more will keep us entertained as we travel.

Our tour begins either here in Nethy Bridge or in Inverness, convenient for flights and rail connections. We don’t follow the exact route of the ‘North Coast 500’, preferring deviations to cater for wildlife and birding considerations. Number of centres 3.

Please note this departure does not stay at the Mountview Hotel.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlands & Corncrake (p19), High Season Across the Highlands (p20).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS North Ronaldsay & Orkney in Spring for birders (p34), Outer Hebrides in Spring (p35).

HIGH SEASON ACROSS THE HIGHLANDS A week of Scottish birding featuring a visit to the bustling seabird city of Handa Island!

SAT 25 MAY – SAT 1 JUNE 2024 SAT 24 MAY – SAT 31 MAY 2025 Price: from £1595pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

A tremendous two-centre holiday for all the species that make Scotland so special.

We visit many habitats including the seabird colony of Handa Island. It really is time to enjoy High Season ACROSS the Highlands!

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In the Abernethy Forest we seek Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbill, where adults with fledged young may be found at this time. Forests also hold migrant Redstart, Spotted Flycatcher and Tree Pipit and resident Treecreeper and Goldcrest. Lochs and rivers, birchwoods and moorland may produce Osprey, Dipper, Buzzard, Goldeneye, Red Grouse, Black-throated Diver, Lesser Redpoll, breeding waders and Slavonian Grebe.

Handa is a birding treat. Puffin, Guillemot and Razorbill mingle with Fulmar, Kittiwake and Shag on the cliffs. Arctic Skua ‘dive-bomb’ the boardwalk if we are too close, and with Gannet, Great Skua, Black Guillemot, Raven, Red Grouse, ‘real’ Rock Dove, Snipe, Lesser Redpoll, Sedge Warbler, Eider, Hooded Crow and Great Northern and Red-throated Diver too, every minute is absorbing. We stay overnight on the west, giving maximum time on Handa, and a second day to explore the under-watched north-west coast. Your guides choose the best locations in the freedom of the most stunning landscape in Scotland. Black-throated Diver are on remote lochs, Twite, Wheatear and Whinchat on the moorland and Golden and White-tailed Eagles soar over imposing crags.

We visit secluded locations with Golden Eagle, Peregrine, Merlin, Red Kite and Ring Ouzel in mind. On the high plateau we head to the right spots for Ptarmigan and Dotterel, and our record in May and June is very good. We also look for breeding Snow Bunting.

At the coast fishing Osprey, Common Eider, Goosander, Red-breasted Merganser, Stonechat, Red-throated Diver, Corn Bunting, Yellowhammer, occasional summering Common Scoter, Sandwich, Common, Arctic and Little Tern can be found. We also tel: 01479 821248

seek rarities within reach, perhaps a rare wader at this time. A fitting finale to a great week’s birding!

Mammals may include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Grey Seal, Common Seal. Otter, Mountain Hare, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise are possible.

Six nights at the Mountview Hotel. One night at a comfortable hotel on the west.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Birding the Highlands in May (p19), Birding the North Coast 500 (p20), NEW! Highlands & Ailsa Craig (p21).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Outer Hebrides in Spring (p35), Shetland Island Explorer (p36).

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

NEW! HIGHLANDS and AILSA CRAIG A seabird spectacular and scarce Scottish birds including Dotterel and Nightjar - all on the same tour!

SAT 1 JUNE – SAT 8 JUNE 2024 SAT 31 MAY – SAT 7 JUNE 2025 Price: from £1595pp No single supplement. Further details are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

A fantastic new two-centre holiday exploring some of the best birding in Ayrshire and Dumfries & Galloway, plus all the key specialities in the Highlands. A boat trip to Ailsa Craig will be especially memorable, a rare opportunity to view the spectacular Gannet colony, the third largest in Britain!

This is a busy tour, aiming to reach hidden gems, and lesser-known birding places within Scotland. As well as the abundance of seabirds on our boat trip, another key target is Nightjar in the Galloway Forest - a rare Scottish breeder and this is our only tour targeting them north of the border. A day in the Cairngorm mountains gives us the chance to look for recently arrived Dotterel too, and we hope to encounter breeding Ptarmigan, Snow Bunting and Ring Ouzel amid spectacular scenery. We also look for Wood Warbler, Pied Flycatcher and Redstart in quiet woodlands, alongside Highland specialities including Black Grouse, Crested Tit, Golden & White-tailed Eagle, Slavonian Grebe, Black-throated Diver and more!

KEY MOMENTS at our Friday round-up - which will be yours?

• A boat trip to the Ailsa Craig - a rarely visited destination full of breeding seabirds!

• Galloway Forest and the special birds it holds - Nightjar, Wood Warbler and Pied Flycatcher.

• The Cairngorm plateau, with unforgettable mountain scenery all around as we search for Ptarmigan and Dotterel.

• Slavonian Grebe and Black-throated Diver in breeding plumage, perhaps with young.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS High Season across the Highlands (p20).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Shetland Island Explorer (p36), Orkney Island Explorer (p37), Islands on the Edge (p37), NEW! Wildlife of Argyll and Inner Hebridean Islands (p38).

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel. Two nights at a comfortable hotel in Newton Stewart.

HIGHLANDS and ORKNEY Brilliant summer birding across the Highlands, with an action packed TWO nights away in Orkney!

SAT 15 JUNE – SAT 22 JUNE 2024 SAT 26 APRIL – SAT 3 MAY 2025 Price: from £1595pp No single supplement. Further details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

We look for Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbill in the forests, and your list on this first day may also include Osprey, Peregrine, Dipper, Goldeneye, Black and Red Grouse, Blackthroated Diver, Slavonian Grebe and a range of breeding waders. During our time locally we also seek Golden and White-tailed Eagle plus summer passerines including Ring Ouzel, Tree Pipit and Redstart, with Wood Warbler, Pied and Spotted Flycatcher perhaps possible too. At nearby coastal haunts, expect Osprey, Eider, Goosander, Red-breasted Merganser, Stonechat and farmland birds such as Corn Bunting, Yellowhammer and Grey Partridge.

With a special focus on Orkney, where Hen Harrier and Short-eared Owl breed in good numbers, we often enjoy great views of these fabulous raptors quartering rough grasslands and heaths. Waders will be abundant, with Golden Plover, Black-tailed Godwit, Curlew, Snipe and perhaps Ruff in breeding plumage featuring. Breeding passerines include Skylark, Wheatear, Meadow and Rock Pipit, Linnet and Twite, and with so much prey around we might add hunting Merlin too. We visit the busy seabird colony at Marwick Head, and in the right habitats there are chances of Water Rail and even Corncrake, though hearing them is far more likely than actually seeing one! At numerous bays and beaches, we often find summer-plumaged waders on passage, terns including Little Tern or a late to depart Great Northern Diver or Glaucous Gull. Primarily a birding trip, we find time for a look around World Heritage sites such as ‘Ring of Brodgar’ and ‘Stones of Stenness’ – both of which can be good for birds. Ferry crossings should yield Great and Arctic Skua among the seabirds, and in recent years we have seen Orca, Minke Whale, dolphins and Otter, so don’t miss a minute!

Other wildlife should include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Grey Seal, Common Seal and Otter. Mountain Hare, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise are possible. Please note we don’t visit the Cairngorm plateau during this itinerary.

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel. Two nights at a comfortable hotel on Orkney.

Facebook: heatherleabirdwatching

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highland Wildlife in Early Summer (p22).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Orkney Island Explorer (p37), Wildlife of Argyll and Inner Hebridean Islands (p38), Northwest Scotland Explorer (p39).

Twitter: @heatherleabirds

Instagram: @heatherleabirds

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

On this ever-popular tour we divide our time between Strathspey and Mainland Orkney, the latter a fertile archipelago where special breeding birds include Hen Harrier, Shorteared Owl, Red-throated Diver, Twite and more! With auks, skuas, terns and gulls, our three-day journey is full of excitement amid stunning coastal scenery and we also explore the Caledonian pinewoods and rugged glens to find many special Highland birds.

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THE OUTER LIMITS in SUMMER A week of summer birding across Scotland, with TWO nights away in the Outer Hebrides.

SAT 14 JUNE – SAT 21 JUNE 2025 Price: from £1695pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

A summer itinerary to see the birdlife of mountain, moor, forest and coast, with special attention paid to the rugged beauty and desolate vistas of the islands of Harris and Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, voted as the best island destination in Europe!

On this two-centre holiday we enjoy glorious scenery, long evenings and some of the best summer birding in Britain as we combine the summer birds of the mainland with a three-day, two-night visit to the northern Outer Hebrides, one of the most spectacular island destinations in the world!

During our time at the Mountview Hotel, we comb all the special habitats, including tranquil pinewoods and the vast Cairngorm mountain plateau. Target birds include Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Osprey, Dipper, Buzzard, Goldeneye, Red Grouse, Black-throated Diver, Lesser Redpoll, Peregrine, breeding waders and Slavonian Grebe. We spend a full day on the Cairngorm plateau for Ptarmigan and Dotterel, and at the inner Moray Firth seek fishing Osprey, Eider, Goosander, Redbreasted Merganser, Red-throated Diver, Yellowhammer, Sandwich, Common, Arctic and Little Tern, Gannet, Guillemot and Razorbill, and waders may include Turnstone, Bar-tailed Godwit and Red Knot in breeding plumage.

Total species for the holiday approx. 110. Other wildlife should include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Grey Seal, Common Seal and Otter. Mountain Hare, Minke Whale, Basking Shark, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise are possible.

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel. Two nights at a comfortable hotel on the Outer Hebrides.

On Harris and Lewis our activities will suit the weather and any known rare birds. We visit the Butt of Lewis to search for seabirds and vagrants and explore the remote west coast and the peatlands, checking a few hidden lochans that hold nesting waders. White-tailed and Golden Eagle, Merlin and Hen Harrier are realistic targets on the vast moorlands, with Golden Plover and the occasional Greenshank and divers on the peatlands. Our last morning may be spent looking for eagles, Otter and perhaps Cetaceans from viewpoints such as Tiumpan Head. Two very different ferry crossings promise varied and exciting birding, with Manx Shearwater, Great and Arctic Skua, Black Guillemot, other auk species, gulls, terns and Gannet to entertain. A great birding adventure!

Combine with in 2025: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highland Wildlife in Early Summer (p22).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Islands on the Edge (p37), Wildlife of Argyll and Inner Hebridean Islands (p40), North West Scotland Explorer (p39).

HIGHLAND WILDLIFE in Early Summer Birds, mammals, insects and plants – ideal for the all-round enthusiast!

SAT 22 JUNE – SAT 29 JUNE 2024 SAT 21 JUNE – SAT 28 JUNE, SAT 28 JUNE – SAT 5 JULY 2025 Price: from £1495pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

A cracking celebration of wildlife covering the birds, mammals, insects and plants of this fantastic area. Aimed at the natural history all-rounder and the birder who wants to see something extra, our itinerary is designed to be a leisurely and thoroughly enjoyable exploration at a relaxed pace. Stretching from the high tops of the Arctic-alpine mountains, to the summer plants and birdlife of the Moray Coast, this will be a celebration of all the wildlife of the Cairngorms National Park and beyond. We also visit key sites outside the Park for rare dragonflies, butterflies and flora.

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In our hotel grounds you may see Moonwort, Northern Marsh Orchid, Creeping Lady’s Tresses and Chanterelle. We check our moth trap daily, finding nationally scarce moths, though for many Poplar Hawk-moth is a highlight. We bird for Scottish Crossbill and Crested Tit, and see Twinflower, Serrated and Common Wintergreen, Field Gentian and orchids including Fragrant, Coralroot, Greater and Lesser Butterfly. At the coast we search for orchids and wintergreens plus Scots Lovage. Insects include Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary, Northern Brown Argus, Dark Green Fritillary, Common Hawker, White-faced and Black Darter, Northern Damselfly, Four-spot Chaser and Northern Emerald.

On the mountain are Ptarmigan, Dotterel, Ring Ouzel, Snow Bunting and Mountain Hare, and rare alpines including Moss Campion, Trailing Azalea, Dwarf Cornel, Alpine Lady’s Mantle, Alpine Saw-wort, Lesser Twayblade, Scottish Asphodel, Alpine and Interrupted Clubmoss and a Climax Forest of Least Willow, with a chance of Black Mountain Moth.

We visit Troup Head by boat to see Scotland's only mainland Gannetry with breeding Guillemot, Razorbill, Puffin, Black Guillemot, Kittiwake, Shag, Fulmar, and occasional marauding Great Skua or flashing Peregrine. Minke Whale, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise are also possible.

In moorland habitats we seek Osprey, Golden Eagle, Peregrine, Red and Black-throated Diver, Slavonian Grebe and Red Grouse. Orchids include Frog and Small White, plus Grass of Parnassus, Starry Saxifrage, Sundew, Butterwort, Intermediate Wintergreen, Water Lobelia and Stag’s-horn Clubmoss. Beautiful Yellow Underwing is a speciality moth, and we visit a loch famous for rare dragonflies. We should see Red and Roe Deer, and perhaps White-tailed Eagle. tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

In Highland Perthshire our top target is Mountain Ringlet butterfly, plus Golden-ringed Dragonfly and ‘scotica’ Large Heath. Later we visit one of the best flower meadows in the UK, hoping to see Small Cow-wheat and Birds-nest Orchid.

The holiday is perhaps focused 25% on birdlife, 10% on mammals, 35% on insects and 30% on flora, though these are rough approximations!

Seven nights at the Mountview Hotel.

Please also see ‘HIGHLAND WILDLIFE in High Summer’ on page 25, timed just three weeks later. The two tours should witness a marked change in seasonal wildlife.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlands & Orkney (p21).

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

EAGLES, DIVERS and DOTTEREL including MULL Britain's best birding in summer, from the Cairngorm plateau to the Isle of Mull.

SAT 6 JULY – SAT 13 JULY, SAT 13 JULY – SAT 20 JULY 2024 SAT 12 JULY – SAT 19 JULY 2025 Price: from £1595pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

Where do you go in the ‘quiet’ birding weeks of summer? Glorious scenery, long evenings and the best summer birding in Britain await you with Heatherlea in July. We take you from magnificent mountain-top to the scenic grandeur of Mull, where we search for Golden Eagle, White-tailed Eagle, Peregrine, fishing Osprey, Slavonian Grebe, Red and Black-throated Diver, Ptarmigan, Dotterel and more.

Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbill are among our early targets, followed by Dipper, Buzzard, Goldeneye, Redstart, Spotted Flycatcher and Tree Pipit. Rocky crags may hold Ring Ouzel, Stonechat and Wheatear, plus upland specialities including Red-throated Diver, Lesser Redpoll, Red Grouse, Slavonian Grebe, Stonechat, Common Sandpiper and Osprey plus both Brown and Mountain Hare and Red Deer stags are coming into full velvet.

Land of eagles and otters, Mull is truly magical in High Summer, with young eagles newly on the wing. We should enjoy excellent views of both White-tailed and Golden Eagle, with good chances of other raptors including Hen Harrier, Peregrine, Merlin and Short-eared Owl. We aim to find Otter and usually pick up a selection of warblers and chats, with good chances of Twite.

As we travel the coast, watch out for Black Guillemot, Common Seal and Hooded Crow. A great adventure!

If weather allows, we head up the hill for Ptarmigan and particularly Dotterel, both perhaps with piping young running behind. We also visit Troup Head, to see breeding Gannet at close quarters.

Amongst the Guillemot, Razorbill and Kittiwake will be a few breeding Puffin, and the occasional passing Great or Arctic Skua and Corn Bunting, Yellowhammer, Tree Sparrow and Rock Pipit are also present. We also round-up any rarities within reach on this coastline, perhaps a scarce wader or gull featuring at this time.

Other wildlife might include Red Squirrel, Roe Deer, Red Deer, Grey Seal, Common Seal and Otter. Mountain and Brown Hare, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise are possible.

Six nights at the Mountview Hotel. One night at a comfortable hotel on Mull.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Butterflies, Dragons and Birds (p23), Highlands & Wester Ross (p24) Highland Wildlife in High Summer (p25) Highland Mammals and more (p24).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Coll & Tiree in Summer (p40), Shetland Wildlife in Summer (p40), Mull and Ardnamurchan Wildlife Spectacular (p41), Orkney in High Summer (p41).

BUTTERFLIES, DRAGONFLIES and BIRDS Sought-after Scottish specialities in the Highlands and on the West Coast.

SAT 6 JULY – SAT 13 JULY 2024 SAT 5 JULY – SAT 12 JULY 2025 Price: from £1695pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

Late-summer birding is good, with many of the Highland specialities present in high numbers after the breeding season. We scan for eagles and divers in the west while return wader passage will be well under way at coastal haunts. Amongst the butterflies, tricky to find Mountain Ringlet is the ultimate prize, with Northern Brown Argus and Large Heath also high upon our wish-list. Desirable dragons include Azure Hawker, Northern and Brilliant Emerald, White-faced Darter and range restricted Northern Damselfly. The weather is of course key, and by visiting as many sites as possible we have every chance of success!

Our most comprehensive butterfly and dragonfly itinerary to date, we devote more time to scarce and range-restricted species than any other tour. Please be aware that this is a very weather dependent tour, and sunny days will be dedicated to butterflies and dragons, though our itinerary may need to be quite flexible. Strictly limited to just one group, with maximum seven clients.

KEY MOMENTS at our Friday round-up – which will be yours?

• Special Highland birds, perhaps including Black Grouse, Slavonian Grebe, Osprey and Crested Tit. • Scarce butterflies including Mountain Ringlet, Northern Brown Argus, Scotch Argus and Large Heath • Range restricted Azure Hawker, Northern Emerald, Northern Damselfly and perhaps a late White-faced Darter.

• Eagles soaring over west coast mountains, with divers and Otter on the sea.

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel and two nights on the West Coast Facebook: heatherleabirdwatching

Twitter: @heatherleabirds

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Eagles, Divers and Dotterel including Mull (p23), Highlands & Wester Ross (p24).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Shetland Wildlife in High Summer (p40).

Instagram: @heatherleabirds

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

A holiday aimed at the general naturalist, celebrating some of the special birds, butterflies and dragonflies found during the short Highland summer. Dividing our time between our own base at Mountview Hotel in Nethy Bridge and the stunning West Coast, we enjoy the best wildlife experiences available, focusing specifically on key birdlife and two fascinating insect orders.

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HIGHLANDS and WESTER ROSS High summer wildlife by land and sea.

SAT 13 JULY – SAT 20 JULY 2024 SAT 26 JULY – SAT 2 AUGUST 2025 Price: from £1595pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

An exceptional holiday, combining birding with three days exploring remote places on the rugged West Coast. We take our time in picture-postcard villages including Applecross, Shieldaig, Pennan and Crovie, giving a different flavour of wildlife and culture on an easy-paced birding tour.

We enjoy two nights on the West Coast, watching for Golden and White-tailed Eagle in stunning mountain scenery. Here, Black-throated Diver are gathering in sheltered bays and we scout the shore for waders and Otter. An exhilarating boat trip into the Minch will be a highlight, where all manner of hard-to-see birds, including skuas, petrels and shearwaters may be enjoyed at close range and we might also find Minke Whale, Harbour Porpoise, dolphins and Basking Shark. In the Applecross hills we hope to find Ptarmigan, enjoying magnificent views across to Skye, and even the Outer Hebrides on a clear day.

In the Scottish Highlands we seek Slavonian Grebe, Red-throated Diver, Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbill. On the Black Isle we look for Red Knot and Bar-tailed Godwit in bright colours, with perhaps a scarce wader like Curlew Sandpiper hiding among their number. Red Kite and Tree Sparrow are found at favoured sites, and we may see Bottle-nosed Dolphin on the turning tide. On the east coast, Gannets are probably the most populous bird on the cliffs, which may also hold a few Razorbill, Guillemot, Fulmar, Kittiwake and Shag. We may see Short-eared Owl feeding large chicks on the open moorland, find Black Grouse beginning to return to their lek, Red Grouse in families with large chicks or a returning Hen Harrier - there are many possibilities!

Mammals may include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Grey Seal, Common Seal. Otter, Mountain Hare, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise are possible.

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel. Two nights at a comfortable hotel on the West Coast.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Eagles, Divers & Dotterel (p23), Butterflies, Dragons and Birds (p23), Highland Mammals and more.. (p24), Highland Wildlife in High Summer (p25).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Shetland Wildlife in Summer (p40). NEW! Mull and Ardnamurchan Wildlife Spectacular (p41).

HIGHLAND MAMMALS and More...

Highland birds and mammals including Beaver, Pine Marten and Otter in Strathspey, Angus and Perthshire.

SAT 20 JULY – SAT 27 JULY 2024 SAT 19 JULY – SAT 26 JULY 2025 Price: from £1595pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

This is an exciting summer holiday, as we try to see as many of Scotland’s mammals as possible, including some which can be a challenge to see! Our time is divided between Strathspey, under watched Angus and Perthshire, the Moray Firth and the Minch – the latter a marine rich stretch of water between the West Coast and Outer Hebrides. Many of our mammals have nocturnal habits and/or can be extremely elusive, so dedicated evening visits to a Pine Marten hide and a Beaver viewpoint give us good chances of connecting with these two key species. We also hope to see Otter, Badger, Mountain Hare, Red Squirrel and commoner land mammals including bats and deer. On the coasts we look for Common and Grey Seal plus cetaceans, of which Common and Bottle-nosed Dolphin, Harbour Porpoise and Minke Whale are the most likely, though with the Minch’s growing reputation for ‘large’ whales, even Humpback and Fin Whale may be possible on our ferry boat trip!

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And while this tour specifically focuses on mammal watching, naturally we will see birds and other wildlife too. Highland birds could include Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Slavonian Grebe and Black-throated Diver amid spectacular forest and moorland surroundings. During our time in Angus and Perthshire, we may see Ptarmigan in the mountains, plus Black and Red Grouse, Ring Ouzel, Wheatear and raptors on the moors including Hen Harrier. Depending on the coastal sites visited, we might encounter moulting Common and Velvet Scoter, or flocks of terns perhaps containing a stray Black Tern or Little Gull? Returning wader passage will be well under way, and we also look for Osprey, Water Rail, Whinchat, Common Crossbill and other birds across the range of available habitats in Perthshire.

Summer is a great time for other natural history too, and Speyside in particular is home to some scarce butterflies, dragonflies and wildflowers. Nothing will be ignored, though be prepared for shorter days in the field and late nights in our quest to see some of Highland Scotland’s most special mammals!

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel. Two nights at a comfortable hotel in Angus or Perthshire tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Eagles, Divers & Dotterel (p23) Highlands & Wester Ross (p24), Highlands & the Outer Hebrides (p25), Birds & Mammals featuring islands of Eigg & Muck (p26).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Shetland Wildlife in Summer (p40).

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

HIGHLAND WILDLIFE in High Summer Natural History of Northern Scotland.

SAT 20 JULY – SAT 27 JULY 2024 Price: from £1495pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

A high-summer natural history tour of the Highlands, where changes in the season mean a whole host of different wildlife, especially flora and insects. This tour celebrates all we encounter during our short and exciting Highland summer.

The holiday is slow paced, working sites well, looking at birds, mammals, invertebrates and flowers, all in stunning scenery. We start each day with a moth trap, with good chances of hawkmoths and tiger-moths among many others. Local birding includes Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Red Grouse, Black Grouse, Black-throated Diver, Short-eared Owl, Ring Ouzel and Golden Eagle. Flowers include Field Gentian, Bog Asphodel and many varieties of heather. Butterflies include the first emerging Scotch Argus, Large Heath, Dark Green Fritillary, Mountain Ringlet and Northern Brown Argus with several dragonflies on the wing.

Troup Head is fascinating from the water, with towering cliffs covered in thousands of noisy Gannets! Many auks will have fledged, but we should see groups of Razorbill, Guillemot and perhaps a few lone Puffin and Black Guillemot, with chances of Great and Arctic Skua, terns and perhaps even a Manx Shearwater, Minke Whale, Basking Shark, Bottle-nosed Dolphin or Harbour Porpoise.

In Perthshire, we look for Whinchat, Hen Harrier and Golden-ringed Dragonfly. At Keltneyburn we look for orchids still in flower, and at Fortingall visit one of the oldest (if not the oldest) tree in the British Isles, the Fortingall Yew. In the Cairngorms, we look for Red-throated Diver, Slavonian Grebe, Ptarmigan, Black Mountain Moth and alpine flowers, which may include Frog Orchid, Dwarf Cornel, Alpine Saw-wort, Starry Saxifrage, Roseroot, Trailing Azalea, Moss Campion and Least Willows. Later we search for Longeared, Daubenton’s and two species of Pipistrelle Bats, and may see Badger. On the Black Isle hundreds of wading birds include Bar-tailed Godwit, Knot, Dunlin and Curlew, and perhaps Greenshank, Ruff, Curlew Sandpiper or Little Stint. There will be excellent chances of Osprey fishing, and rural backroads hold Red Kite, Yellowhammer, Linnet and Tree Sparrow.

Please also see ‘HIGHLAND WILDLIFE in Early Summer’ on page 22. Timed just three weeks earlier, this tour features a marked change in seasonal wildlife.

Other delights include Atlantic Salmon, Mountain and Brown Hare, Roe and Red Deer and Red Squirrel. Flowers include Grass-of-Parnassus amongst others.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Eagles, Divers & Dotterel (p23), Highlands & Wester Ross (p24), Highlands & Outer Hebrides (p25), Birds & Mammals ft Eigg & Muck (p26).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Shetland Wildlife in Summer (p40).

Seven nights at the Mountview Hotel.

HIGHLANDS and the OUTER HEBRIDES A weeklong summer holiday combining the Highlands and the Uists.

SAT 27 JULY – SAT 3 AUGUST 2024 SAT 30 AUGUST – SAT 6 SEPTEMBER 2025 Price: from £1595pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

The Scottish Highlands, North Uist, Benbecula, South Uist and Skye, all in one action packed holiday! We target specialities in Strathspey and enjoy raptors, waders, flocks of passerines, seabirds and sea mammals on the Outer Hebrides.

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Twitter: @heatherleabirds

Mammals may include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Grey Seal, Common Seal, Otter, Mountain Hare, Minke Whale, Basking Shark, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise.

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel. Two nights on the Outer Hebrides.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highland Mammals & More (p24), Highlands Wildlife in High Summer (p25), NEW! Highland Birding in Late Summer (p26).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Mull and Ardnamurchan Wildlife Spectacular (p41), Orkney in High Summer (p41).

Instagram: @heatherleabirds

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

Locally we seek Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Siskin, Tree Pipit, Redstart, Spotted Flycatcher and Lesser Redpoll. On the Cairngorms, Ptarmigan are skulking in the corries and we explore the moorlands, with Golden Eagle, Raven, Slavonian Grebe, Red Grouse and perhaps Short-eared Owl and Black-throated Diver to entertain.

We head west to our ferry and as we cross The Minch watch for passage seabirds, including petrels, skuas and shearwaters, perhaps with a Sabine's Gull, Great Shearwater or Basking Shark to top off an exciting voyage. On arrival we have a full day to enjoy the delights of the Outer Hebrides in High Summer. Large numbers of migratory waders can be found on the machair, beaches and mudflats, divers feed offshore and good numbers of Twite, Linnet and hopefully Corn Bunting abide in the arable areas. We have good chances of Hen Harrier, Merlin and Shorteared Owl, and all should have fledged young on the wing. Corncrake and Red-necked Phalarope are present but very hard to see this late in the season. A scarce migrant could feature, perhaps Pectoral Sandpiper, Lesser Yellowlegs or White-rumped Sandpiper and we have even been lucky to see Snowy Owl on this trip in the past! We make the most of the long summer day with extended time in the field, returning via Skye to target any species outstanding plus Golden and White-tailed Eagle once more.

Later we visit the Moray Coast or head east to Aberdeenshire. Expect Gannet, fishing Osprey, gulls, terns and auks, plus occasional Great or Arctic Skua. Passage waders might include Turnstone, Bar-tailed Godwit, Knot, Dunlin and Ringed Plover, many in breeding plumage. We look for farmland birds and round up rarities within reach.

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BIRDS and MAMMALS featuring the Islands of EIGG and MUCK Speciality birds and mammals including an exploration of the West Coast by land and sea.

SAT 27 JULY – SAT 3 AUGUST 2024 Price: from £1595pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

A holiday for the wildlife enthusiast with a special emphasis on some of the most sought-after mammals of the Highlands. We seek Otter, Common and Grey Seal, cetaceans including Minke Whale, Harbour Porpoise and dolphins during a twonight, three-day excursion to the stunning West Coast. We use our contacts and experience in West Coast areas to give us the best possible chance of success.

While in our Nethy Bridge base, we have more opportunities to add to our mammal list, with Mountain and Brown Hare, Red Squirrel and three species of deer possible plus evening excursions locally for Daubenton’s Bat and/or to watch Badgers.

Speciality birds include Ptarmigan, Black Grouse, Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Slavonian Grebe, Black-throated Diver, Dotterel and perhaps breeding Snow Bunting. On a dedicated boat trip visiting the islands of Muck and Eigg, we aim to see a variety of seabirds including Puffin and Black Guillemot, rafts of Manx Shearwater, all three divers in summer plumage, raptors including Merlin, Peregrine, Hen Harrier and both eagles plus breeding Twite, Wheatear, Whinchat and Rock Pipit. With over 100 species of bird and 15 species of mammal possible, this is a trip designed to give us many chances to see exciting mammals with great birding along the way!

Mammals may include Daubenton’s Bat, Badger, Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Grey Seal, Common Seal. Otter, Mountain and Brown Hare, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise are possible.

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel. Two nights at a comfortable hotel on the West Coast.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highland Mammals and More (p24), Highland Wildlife in High Summer (p25), NEW! Highland Birding in Late Summer (p26).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Mull and Ardnamurchan Wildlife Spectacular (p41), Orkney in High Summer (p41).

HIGHLAND BIRDING IN LATE SUMMER The best of Highland birding at the end of summer.

SAT 3 AUGUST – SAT 10 AUGUST 2024 Price: from £1495pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

Late summer is a fantastic time for birding in the Highlands with the highest concentration of breeding birds as most youngsters will have fledged. With raptors taking to the wing for the first time, mountain species with well-grown chicks, auks on the open water and passerines gearing up to head south, bird activity is high. On this varied tour, we visit the local pine forests, moorland habitats, rugged West Coast and the southern end of the Cairngorm Mountain range. Being based at the Mountview Hotel throughout gives us ultimate flexibility, and your guide can choose the best daily activities to suit the weather and our birding targets.

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A boat-trip out into The Minch will be a highlight and we hope to see both breeding and migrant seabirds in large numbers. Gannet, Fulmar, Shag, auks, shearwaters, petrels, skuas and terns are all likely and we have good chances of cetaceans too. With a growing reputation as one of the best whale watching locations in Scotland, a range of species such as Common, Risso's and Bottlenose Dolphin, Harbour Porpoise and Minke Whale are all possible, with chances of larger whales such as Fin and Humpback too. On the coasts post breeding flocks of terns and waders are starting to build, the latter often in bright summer plumage.

Among the local, Highland species we seek are Crested Tit, Ptarmigan, Red Grouse, Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Osprey, Slavonian Grebe, Red-throated and Blackthroated Diver, Scottish Crossbill and many more. It is a good time for owls, and our woodlands are still busy with summer breeders prior to their departure. As well as cetaceans, local mammals could include Otter, Red Deer, Mountain Hare and Red Squirrel plus Grey and Common Seal on the coast.

Seven nights at the Mountview Hotel.

tel: 01479 821248

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlands & Outer Hebrides (p25), Birds & Mammals feat Muck & Eigg (p26).

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

AUTUMN in the HIGHLANDS with EASY WALKING A unique birding holiday especially for those who don't want to walk too far.

SAT 17 AUGUST – SAT 24 AUGUST 2024 SAT 16 AUGUST – SAT 23 AUGUST 2025 Price: from £1495pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

Would you like to see all the special birds of Scotland, but without too much exertion? On this ‘Easy Walking’ itinerary, we look for all the Scottish specials including Ptarmigan, perhaps the most inaccessible of our native birds. We explore the dramatic West Coast, search for southbound migrants and enjoy a fantastic seabird trip to the Outer Hebrides, on a tour which involves very little walking, and on some days hardly any walking at all. We are based entirely at the Mountview Hotel, giving us flexibility to choose the best day for each of our activities.

You can enjoy all the great birding the Scottish Highlands has to offer, visiting many special places by comfortable minibus and getting close to the best birding sites. As well as Ptarmigan we seek Highland specialities including Black Grouse, Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Golden Eagle, White-tailed Eagle, Osprey and much more. Early Autumn is a great time of year when bird numbers and diversity are high, with local breeders joined by migrants originating from Scandinavia as they begin to flood south towards warmer climes. We visit a range of superb coastal sites to search for birds within some of the most attractive regions of Scotland while our boat trip should give us exciting encounters with seabirds including Gannet, Sooty and Manx Shearwater, Storm Petrel, any of four skuas, auks and perhaps a rarity. The Minch is a great stretch of sea for cetaceans, with Common, Risso’s and Bottle-nosed Dolphin, Harbour Porpoise and Minke Whale all possible at this time of year.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highland Migration by Land and Sea (p27).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Outer Hebrides in early Autumn for birders (p42), North Ron & Orkney in early Autumn for birders (p42).

Seven nights at the Mountview Hotel.

NEW! HIGHLAND MIGRATION BY LAND and SEA With migration at the fore and now with TWO boat trips, we explore birding hotspots on three coastlines.

SAT 24 AUGUST – SAT 31 AUGUST 2024 SAT 23 AUGUST – SAT 30 AUGUST 2025 Price: from £1495pp No single supplement. Full details are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

With TWO boat trips planned, exploring offshore waters both east and west we have excellent chances of seabirds. Commoner, locally bred species can be abundant and on our pelagic trips 'chumming' brings the birds in close, the views of shearwaters, skuas and petrels often being excellent. Higher numbers are more likely in the Minch, and from elevated viewing decks on the ferry this stretch of water also offers excellent chances for cetaceans. Risso's and Common Dolphin, Harbour Porpoise and Minke Whale are all likely and in calm conditions and with good feeding opportunities, larger species such as Fin and Humpback Whale are possible. Day visits to the Moray Coast and Black Isle yield a variety of waders, seaduck, divers and grebes, while rich farmland ensures there is plenty to seek inland. The Aberdeenshire coast or Tarbat peninsula both support a variety of habitats, with some species rarely seen on other tours possible, and ‘drift’ passerines after easterly winds. Will we get lucky with a rarity or two?

Migration is the priority, making this a unique tour. We do look for our Highland specialities including Crested Tit, Black Grouse and eagles, but do not plan to seek Ptarmigan in the high hills or elusive Capercaillie in the forests. Instead, we devote more time and choose the best days to look for seabirds, the best tides to check for waders and the best winds for passerines. We may single out an exciting rarity and be prepared for a change of plan for that one special bird! It’s an exciting time for keen birders to be out in the field, and our Guides especially enjoy these days so come and join them!

Seven nights at the Mountview Hotel.

Facebook: heatherleabirdwatching

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Autumn in the Highlands with Easy Walking (p27), Autumn Migration in the Highlands (p28).

Twitter: @heatherleabirds

Instagram: @heatherleabirds

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

On this tour we explore the Highland coastline to its fullest, offering some of the best migration-based birding available in Scotland. Our award-winning hotel is ideally situated and on this highly flexible itinerary our daily routine will very much depend on weather conditions and up-to-date bird news. Local knowledge is key, and our guides will choose the right day to visit sites accordingly, dedicating time to both land and sea. Resident populations are at their peak and with incoming migration, bird numbers and species variety are at their highest.

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AUTUMN MIGRATION in THE HIGHLANDS Southbound migration and Scottish specialities at a great time of year.

SAT 31 AUGUST – SAT 7 SEPTEMBER 2024 SAT 6 SEPTEMBER – SAT 13 SEPTEMBER 2025 Price: from £1495pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

A fantastic holiday featuring the special resident birds and exploring migration on both the west and east coasts of the Highlands. With Northern breeders on the move, it is an exciting time, and we visit some of the best places and habitats for birdwatching on both land and sea. Close to our Highland base we seek Ptarmigan, Black Grouse, Crested Tit, Osprey, Scottish Crossbill and more. It’s a great time of year, with bird numbers at their highest as juvenile birds boost the local populations.

At this time anything can turn up and on a dedicated day we explore the attractive Tarbat Peninsula. We will also likely visit the Moray and Black Isle coasts. All support high densities of farmland birds at the same time offering vast potential for migrant passerines and with busy estuaries and sea lochs nearby, we will accumulate a high daylist on these days. A two-night stay on the West Coast gives us more time to search for top quality birds including Golden and White-tailed Eagle, three species of diver, seaduck and perhaps Twite if we are lucky. Otters are possible too and on our sea trip across the Minch we have chances of cetaceans and hope to see petrels, shearwaters, skuas or perhaps a rarity among commoner seabirds. Absorbing birding during a busy period in the Scottish birding calendar.

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel. Two nights on the West Coast.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS NEW! Highland Migration by Land and Sea (p27), The Outer Limits Adventure (p28), NEW! Highland Autumn Explorer (p29).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Outer Hebrides in early Autumn for birders (p42), North Ron & Orkney in Autumn in early Autumn for birders (p42).

THE ‘OUTER LIMITS’ ADVENTURE A real adventure! Birding the Highlands in peak migration time including a two-night stay on the Outer Hebrides!

SAT 7 SEPTEMBER – SAT 14 SEPTEMBER 2024 SAT 14 SEPTEMBER – SAT 21 SEPTEMBER 2024 SAT 21 SEPTEMBER – SAT 28 SEPTEMBER 2024 SAT 13 SEPTEMBER – SAT 20 SEPTEMBER 2025 SAT 20 SEPTEMBER – SAT 27 SEPTEMBER 2025 Price: from £1695pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

A real adventure, including two nights in the island wilderness of Lewis, Harris and Skye. With Black Grouse, Ptarmigan, Golden Eagle, White-tailed Eagle, Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbill, seabird flocks, migration all around the coast and the possibility of rarities, this is a unique and very exciting holiday.

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In the Caledonian pinewoods there are good numbers of Crested Tit with roaming Scottish Crossbill also in small flocks. Golden Eagle, Peregrine, Buzzard, Sparrowhawk and Kestrel are in the glens and the Red Deer rut reaches its peak.

We make a three-day visit to the northern Outer Hebrides, frequently chosen by guides and guests as one of the highlights of the Heatherlea year. We scan for Manx Shearwater, Great and Arctic Skua, Storm Petrel, Gannet, auks and more from our ferry. Sooty Shearwater, Leach’s Petrel, Pomarine and Long-tailed Skua, Grey Phalarope plus Minke Whale, Bottle-nosed, Risso’s and Common Dolphins, Harbour Porpoise and Grey and Common Seal are all possible too. On Harris we may see eagles and checking sheltered bays for seaduck may reveal rare Surf Scoter, King Eider, three diver species and Slavonian Grebe. On Lewis we visit headlands for seabirds, waders, Twite and migrant passerines, walk the woods for Hebridean races of Wren and Song Thrush and target boggy lochans for American vagrants. We may get falls of southbound migrants with Pink-footed Goose, Snow and Lapland Bunting possible. Golden and White-tailed Eagles, Hen Harrier and Merlin are also frequently seen.

Back in the Strath, Black Grouse are returning to the lek and we also visit the Moray Firth to search the concentrations of seabirds that make this coast such a magnet for birders. Common and Velvet Scoter, Long-tailed Duck and Red-throated Divers are all possible, as are many waders in autumn. Ptarmigan are our target on the mountain day and Snow Bunting may be seen.

Other wildlife should include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Mountain Hare and other sea life.

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel. Two nights at a comfortable hotel on the Outer Hebrides. tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Autumn Migration in the Highlands (p28), NEW! Highland Autumn Explorer (p29), Highlands & Skye in Autumn (p29).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS North Ron & Orkney in Autumn for birders (p43), Shetland in Autumn for birders (p43).

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

HIGHLAND AUTUMN EXPLORER Speciality local birds, departing and incoming migrants and an exciting pelagic trip - an autumn tour with something for everyone!

SAT 7 SEPTEMBER – SAT 14 SEPTEMBER 2024 SAT 30 AUGUST – SAT 6 SEPTEMBER 2025 Price: from £1395pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

Purple heather moors, the gold and red in the birchwoods, and the deep greens of the ancient pinewoods - this is a lovely time to visit Scotland. Mid-autumn is an interesting period for birdwatching here, with an abundance of possibilities as summer breeders, winter visitors and Highland specialities collide. Bird numbers are at their highest, and by exploring a number of lesser-known places and different habitats, we can expect variety and a high species count on this new tour.

Our Mountview Hotel is ideally placed and on this highly flexible itinerary our daily routine will very much depend on weather conditions and up to date bird news. Lots of birds will be on the move from geese, swans and other wildfowl, waders and terns to passerines including thrushes, chats, pipits, finches, warblers and more! There is always the chance of a rarity or two, while an exciting pelagic trip will be a highlight offering chances of unparalleled views with less frequently seen seabirds. An exciting opportunity to explore offshore, likely are skuas, petrels, shearwaters as well as commoner seabirds and perhaps cetaceans.

Local knowledge is key, and our guides will choose the right day to visit sites accordingly. Resident populations are at their peak, and we hope to see Scottish specialities including Black and Red Grouse, Ptarmigan, Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbill. Day visits to the Moray, Black Isle or Aberdeenshire coast will yield waders, seaduck, divers and grebes, while rich farmland ensures there is plenty to seek inland.

Seven nights at the Mountview Hotel.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Autumn Migration in the Highlands (p28) The Outer Limits Adventure (p28).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS North Ron & Orkney in Autumn for birders (p43).

HIGHLANDS and SKYE in AUTUMN A superb celebration of Autumn across the Highlands, featuring two nights on the stunning Isle of Skye!

SAT 28 SEPTEMBER – SAT 5 OCTOBER 2024 SAT 4 OCTOBER – SAT 11 OCTOBER 2025 Price: from £1695pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

An early morning visit to the Black Grouse lek will get us off to a great start, and later, a walk in the nearby Abernethy Forest may produce Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbill. Moorland specialities include Peregrine, Red Grouse, Merlin and Hen Harrier, with Goosander and Dipper on the rivers.

Heading towards Skye we work slowly west via mountainous Torridon with its long sealochs and quaint villages, favoured coastlines for Otters, waders and wildfowl.

In autumn on Skye, magical low light and changing weather give us picturepostcard views around every turn, with concentrations of Golden and White-tailed Eagles and good chances of Hen Harrier and Merlin. Divers will be returning to the coastline with good numbers of Great Northern in particular and a wide range of birdlife including Black Guillemot and Twite.

In the hills we concentrate on Ptarmigan and rarely fail to find the birds. Local birding gives excellent chances of Siskin, Lesser Redpoll, Bullfinch and woodland species, already in winter flocks. Nearby fields often hold freshly arrived Redwing and Fieldfare and flocks of finches and buntings may contain Brambling. Autumn along the Moray Coast can be stunning. Rafts of seaduck include Velvet and Common Scoter, Long-tailed Duck, Eider and Red-breasted Merganser. We search for rarities, which in recent years have included Surf Scoter, King Eider and (just once), Steller’s Eider. Geese will be in good number, and waders should include Purple Sandpiper, Turnstone, Bar-tailed Godwit, Knot, Dunlin and Ringed Plover.

With luck farmland will be busy, with chances of Grey Partridge, Corn Bunting and perhaps Whooper Swans. A marvellous feast of autumn birding!

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel. Two nights at a comfortable hotel on Skye.

Facebook: heatherleabirdwatching

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS The Outer Limits Adventure (p28), Raptors & Grouse (p30).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS North Ronaldsay & Orkney in Autumn for birders (p43), Shetland in Autumn for birders (p43), Outer Hebrides in Autumn for birders (p44).

Twitter: @heatherleabirds

Instagram: @heatherleabirds

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

Autumn on Skye is magical from mountaintop to sea, and perhaps the best time for eagles as young birds make the most of autumnal winds. Waders move through in good numbers and moorland birds have formed flocks, ranging on the coast. Back home in Strathspey, specialities and newly arriving thrushes, geese and waders provide superb birding during a classic week.

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RAPTORS & GROUSE Prime time for these special birds and plenty more besides.

SAT 5 OCTOBER – SAT 12 OCTOBER 2024 Price: from £1595pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

This is a superb time to come to Scotland – autumn migration is in full swing; the tree and heather colours are turning, and our target birds are at their highest numbers with all youngsters fledged. On this itinerary we seek an ambitious list of raptors heading to the best sites to look for them. The list is mouth-watering: White-tailed Eagle, Golden Eagle, Buzzard, Osprey, Red Kite, Hen Harrier, Peregrine, Sparrowhawk and Kestrel with chances of Merlin, Goshawk and Short-eared Owl. To maximise our chances, we include an overnight stay on Magical Mull, a superb place to gain close views of many raptors in stunning Hebridean scenery! Our grouse targets are Ptarmigan, Black Grouse and Red Grouse.

Ptarmigan will be in high corries of the Cairngorms and this is the time of peak numbers so we stand a good chance. Red Grouse are found commonly on the moors around our Hotel in Nethy Bridge, while rarer Black Grouse are active locally. Other specialities inland include Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbill while other birds likely on our Mull adventure include Black Grouse, Black Guillemot, Hooded Crow, Red-throated Diver, Slavonian Grebe, Goosander, Redpoll, Stonechat, Twite and more.

September birding along the Moray Coast and on the Black Isle is particularly enjoyable, as newly arriving winter migrants complement remaining summer visitors. Birds may include Osprey fishing, rafts of Common Eider, Goosander, Red-breasted Merganser, Stonechat, returning Common and Velvet Scoter, Black and Red-throated Diver, autumn waders including Turnstone, Bar-tailed Godwit, Knot, Dunlin and Ringed Plover. We search for any rarities within reach and have seen Pectoral Sandpiper, White-rumped Sandpiper and Little Gull at this time. In farmland habitats there are building numbers of Yellowhammer, Reed Bunting, Linnet and Tree Sparrow, and Merlin visit, perching on bales and fenceposts waiting for flocks of Meadow Pipits and other passerines.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlands & Skye in Autumn (p29), Highland Autumn Birding (p30).

Mammals may include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Grey Seal, Common Seal. Otter, Mountain Hare, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise are possible.

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Shetland in Autumn for birders (p43).

Six nights at the Mountview Hotel. One night on Mull.

HIGHLAND AUTUMN BIRDING An exciting birding adventure across the Highlands, including two nights in bird-rich Aberdeenshire!

SAT 12 OCTOBER – SAT 19 OCTOBER 2024 SAT 11 OCTOBER – SAT 18 OCTOBER 2025 Price: from £1495pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

Fantastic ‘local’ birding plus a three day adventure to remotest Aberdeenshire, one of the best yet most under watched birding regions in the UK! We cover all habitats from mountain to sea, giving a full flavour of how good birding can be in the Highlands in Autumn. Particular focus is given to the key spectacle of large numbers of wildfowl recently arrived from breeding grounds.

We enjoy the numbers and look closely for rarities hidden amongst the commoner species!

With big rafts of seaduck, fields full of geese and a good range of migrant and resident birds, this is an unforgettable week.

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An early morning visit to the Black Grouse lek will get us off to a great start. Later a walk in the nearby Abernethy Forest for Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbill is followed by a search for moorland specialities including Peregrine, Red Grouse, Merlin, Hen Harrier and Golden Eagle.

Mountain Hare, Raven, and White-tailed Eagle are frequently seen.

We head east to the Ythan estuary, where goose flocks can be in the thousands, perhaps containing rarities such as Snow or Red-breasted Goose. Vast rafts of Common and Velvet Scoter are possible, with good chances of rarer Surf, Black or White-winged Scoter and King Eider. More usual are Great Northern and Red-throated Diver and seabirds, sometimes being chased by a late Pomarine or Great Skua. Waders include Purple Sandpiper, Turnstone, Bar-tailed Godwit, Knot, Dunlin and Ringed Plover and just about anything can turn up. Passerines originating in Scandinavia can arrive en masse in east winds and in favourable conditions we spend time in coastal scrub searching for them.

We work the under-watched Loch of Strathbeg carefully. Often there is a bigger autumn birdlist here than at Titchwell or Minsmere! Scarce wildfowl are regular, and we spend time looking through ducks in particular. In arable farmland we hope to find Grey Partridge, Corn Bunting and Tree Sparrow, and in busy harbours Iceland and Glaucous Gull. Royal Deeside, famous for Balmoral Castle, is good for crossbills, Goshawk and Golden Eagle and moors hold Red Grouse and a few Mountain Hare. On high hills we search for Ptarmigan and rarely fail to find them. Snow Bunting are possible too, especially when the tops are snow covered.

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel. Two nights at a comfortable hotel on the east coast. tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Raptors & Grouse (p30), NEW! Scottish Wildlife in Late Autumn (p31).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Outer Hebrides in Autumn for birders (p44), Islay and Jura (p44).

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

SCOTTISH WILDLIFE IN LATE AUTUMN Highland specialities and late autumn migrants on the East and West Coast.

SAT 19 OCTOBER – SAT 26 OCTOBER 2024 SAT 18 OCTOBER – SAT 25 OCTOBER, SAT 25 OCTOBER – SAT 1 NOVEMBER 2025

Price: from £1295pp No single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report is available on our website.

Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

Late Autumn is a great time to visit the Highlands, as key resident species are augmented by winter visitors and large numbers of birds are on the move on our coasts.

Following the breeding season, local birds are at their highest densities and with incoming geese, seaduck, waders and passerines all settling in for the winter, or pausing on their southward journeys, it is a busy time of year! On this tour we target all of these birds including any rarities within reach, finding time to enjoy mammals including rutting Red Deer in the hills, and Otter and dolphins on the coast.

Flexibility is key, and we make the best use of available daylight to build a high bird-list. On shorter autumn days, Highland specialities can be easier to see. Black Grouse return to their lekking grounds, and Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbill are active in the forest. Ptarmigan are moulting in quiet mountain corries and eagles patrol winter territories, with younger, wandering birds also in evidence. Golden and White-tailed Eagle are both possible and we have every chance of Hen Harrier, Goshawk, Merlin as well as owls at dusk.

On the Black Isle, Moray and Aberdeenshire coasts, goose flocks are a feature with Pink-footed and Greylag Goose both numerous. Glaucous and Iceland Gull may be found in the harbours, and after northernly storms Little Auk, Grey Phalarope Combine with in 2024: and other seabirds may be encountered too. In sheltered bays, building flocks of Common and Velvet Scoter, Long-tailed SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Short Breaks – Scottish Birding in Autumn Duck and Eider may also contain a rarity, with Surf Scoter and King Eider both seen by Heatherlea groups at this time of (p12), Highland Autumn Birding (p30). year. Rarities are possible from the east too, and in the right conditions falls of passerines may include Waxwing, Yellowbrowed Warbler or something even rarer among their number. Anything is possible at this great time of year!

Seven nights at the Mountview Hotel.

New for 2025

NEW! HIGHLANDS and the ‘SMALL ISLES’ Speciality local wildlife, with a little more walking than usual as we explore the islands of Rum and Eigg.

SAT 2 AUGUST – SAT 9 AUGUST 2025

Price: from £1595pp No single supplement. Full details on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

Located off the west coast of Scotland, and lying to the south of Skye and north of the Ardnamurchan peninsula, there are four main islands which make up ‘The Small Isles’. They are Rum, Eigg, Canna and Muck and it is the first two which feature on this tour, exploring both on foot for wildlife some fabulous scenery.

This is also a holiday for those who want a little more walking than on many Heatherlea tours, as we follow forest trails for specialist birds including Crested Tit and crossbills. We hike in the Cairngorm mountains for Dotterel, Ptarmigan and Snow Bunting and see the Moray Coast and its wildlife from a different perspective on this enjoyable new holiday.

Rum is the largest of the ‘Small Isles’, and most of the land is managed as a nature reserve. The first (successful) White-tailed Eagle re-introductions took place here in 1975, and we may well get lucky with a sighting of one of their descendants. Eigg is the most populated of the islands, and dominated by the impressive An Sgurr ridge it still feels distinctly wild and remote. Possible wildlife as we explore both islands include Golden and WhiteCombine with in 2025: tailed Eagle, Hen Harrier, Peregrine, Merlin, Red-throated and Black-throated Diver, Cuckoo, Whinchat, Stonechat, Wheatear and Twite, plus Red Deer, Otter, seals, butterflies, dragonflies and interesting flora.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlands & Wester Ross (p24).

We need to take two boat/ferry trips to reach Rum and Eigg, with seabirds such as Black Guillemot, Puffin, Manx Shearwater, Arctic and Great Skua likely during the journey. Cetaceans including Common Dolphin, SCOTTISH ISLANDS Harbour Porpoise and Minke Whale may also be seen, and it is a good time of year for Basking Shark and even Mull and Ardnamurchan Wildlife Spectacular (p41), jellyfish in these waters.

Orkney in High Summer (p41).

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel, and two nights on the west coast.

NEW! HIGHLANDS and the FAR NORTH in Autumn Great local birding and exciting migration in Caithness and north-east Highlands.

SAT 27 SEPTEMBER – SAT 4 OCTOBER 2025

Price: from £1595pp On this new tour we combine local specialities at a time when numbers are at their highest, with rarely visited Caithness and the nearby coasts at the peak of autumn migration.

Locally we search for Black and Red Grouse on the moors, Ptarmigan in the hills with an outside chance of rare Combine with in 2025: Capercaillie in the pine forests. Crested Tit and (a variety of) crossbills are likely in the woods too and can be especially abundant at this time following a good breeding season or cone crop. One of the best periods of the SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS birding year for raptors, we have good chances of Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Osprey and Goshawk, plus Hen The Outer Limits Adventure (p28), Highlands and Harrier, Merlin and possibly Short-eared Owl during our time in Caithness.

Skye in Autumn (p29).

On a three-day, two-night adventure to Caithness we explore a number of habitats and lesser-known birding SCOTTISH ISLANDS sights. Autumn migration will be in full flow, and depending on the prevailing winds can bring large numbers of North Ronaldsay & Orkney in Autumn for birders birds and/or rarities from either direction. The far north can be a great place to observe incoming geese, passing (p43), Shetland in Autumn for birders (p43), Outer seabirds while waders, terns and a wide range of passerines will be on the move south from Scandinavia. It is an Hebrides in Autumn for birders (p44). exciting time of year for birders, and this is an exciting place to go birdwatching!

Five nights at the Mountview Hotel, two nights at Caithness.

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SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

No single supplement. Full details on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

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WELCOME TO THE ISLES Go a little further!

The Scottish Isles, whether that be the Northern Isles, Western Isles, or the Southern Hebrides are simply stunning, and with Heatherlea the best wildlife watching experiences are readily available. Fancy seeing Corncrake on Iona? How about shearwaters as you cruise to Canna?

Thousands of geese being harassed by eagles on Islay? Many of our itineraries are unique, and in 2024 we offer more holiday choice than ever, all designed to give you the best wildlife at the best time of year.

You don’t even need a car to visit some of the most scenic and wildliferich places on Earth, we take care of your travel arrangements by including transfers from Nethy Bridge on many of these adventures.

19:30 hours, on SATURDAYS ONLY. If arriving by public transport on a different day, you can transfer to your overnight hotel by taxi (please contact us for up-to-date taxi details). Morning drop-offs to Aviemore railway station are until 10.30am on the day of departure.

These holidays are ideal if you want to see some of the rarest and difficult-to-find birds of the British Isles. Some holidays target specific species, including Corncrake and White-tailed Eagle, though on all the islands we are keenly interested in mammals (especially Otter and cetaceans), insects, flora and more. We take time to enjoy the scenery as well as the wildlife - after all, we are visiting some of the most beautiful places on the planet! We move at a leisurely pace, giving you time in the evenings before a relaxed dinner, though we may move more quickly when rare migrants and vagrants are in our sights!

You can take any SCOTTISH ISLAND holiday singly, but most are conveniently arranged to be enjoyed alongside either a Heatherlea week in The Highlands, or a second holiday elsewhere on the islands. If you combine, you make good use of time and minimise travel expenses too.

Many Heatherlea clients choose this option, and there are lots of possible combinations - please see individual holiday itineraries for suggestions.

We have a maximum number of seven guests per guide for most holidays. This means more personal attention, and more time with your guide to help you get the best possible sightings. Heatherlea is a small company run BY birders FOR birders, where our clients really do come first. Come and see!

We can’t put everything in this brochure, there NORTH just isn’t space! To read an ‘Tour Info Pack’ or RONALDSAY a ‘Trip Report’ with more information, please visit www.heatherlea.co.uk or ask our office for a printed copy.

As an alternative you can join the holiday at a point closer to our destination if that is more convenient - Oban, Fort William and Uig on Skye are regular meeting points on some itineraries, and Aberdeen Airport is the usual meeting point for flights to Shetland.

Combination holidays

More Detail

ORKNEY

For more details, including a Trip Report from any of our recent holidays, see our website www.heatherlea.co.uk. If you have any questions, please contact us, we will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Emma, Fleur, Jolene, Holly, Mark and Sarah are here to help.

Transfers included

SCOTTISH ISLANDS

Island holidays begin here in Nethy Bridge (except holidays to Shetland, where we convene in Aberdeen), with courtesy transfers to ferry points or airports, saving you money. This is often the most economical way to visit the remotest parts of Scotland – Heatherlea make it easy and offers great value.

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OUTER HEBRIDES

ST KILDA

You may book an extra night’s stay at either end of your holiday, and drivers may leave vehicles safely parked at Mountview Hotel free of charge. Please note that extra nights are rarely available within Mountview Hotel, which has only twelve guest rooms. Our near neighbours Nethy Hotel and Nethy House are within easy walking distance, and we can transfer luggage on request. See ‘Getting Here is Easy’ on p9 for suggestions to help you reach Nethy Bridge.

SKYE ABERDEEN

CANNA

NETHY BRIDGE

COLL TIREE

MULL

COLONSAY SOLWAY FIRTH

ISLAY

If using public transport, we provide a courtesy transfer service between Aviemore and The Mountview Hotel. We pick-up at 16:30 hours and tel: 01479 821248

SHETLAND

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

Holidays …‘for birders’ As you look through the Scottish Isles holidays, you may notice some holidays in spring and autumn are suffixed with ‘for birders’… We have several itineraries where we concentrate particularly on the birds which can take your British list to new heights, and these are designated ‘for birders’…

The Scottish islands are wonderful for wind-blown rarities and sometimes ‘mega’ birds, perhaps never before or very rarely seen in the UK. Many Heatherlea birders have enjoyed exceptional birding on the islands, where we always expect the unexpected!

Sometimes these rarities are trapped at observatories where we can observe them closely at leisure, are available in roadside locations, or are found in open fields or on the open sea. At other times, birds are flighty or in places which might be difficult to reach or where visibility is hampered by dense vegetation, and then we change plan, move more quickly to find them or spend longer searching for them or waiting for them to reappear. You may need a reasonable level of mobility to appreciate these holidays to the full.

At all times, we observe the Birdwatchers’ Code of Conduct, following common sense and good practice in the interests of both the wildlife and wildlife enthusiasts.

Specific ‘for birders’ holidays go to the Outer Hebrides, North Ronaldsay and Shetland! Our exceptional guides have a massive amount of experience in finding rare birds in Scotland. Mark Warren was previously employed on Fair Isle and as Warden at North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory (where Heatherlea’s George Gay is now Warden), Aidan Branch worked at North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory, Peter Cosgrove works in conservation on Shetland, and Mike Coleman, Ian Ford, Holly Page, Chris Rodger, Scott O’Hara and Toby Green have been birding Scotland’s outlying islands for many years. Highlights in 2023 included Blackburnian Warbler, Red-footed Booby, Arctic Warbler, Veery, Oriental Turtle Dove, and Siberian Stonechat to name a few!

SCOTTISH ISLANDS

Group sightings and reports from the field are regularly posted onto our social media channels, so keep in touch with our sightings by subscribing today!

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UP HELLY AA! – SHETLAND IN WINTER Rugged Shetland is a wild and beautiful place throughout the year, and this new trip explores the isles in winter, its hardy wildlife and the unique Viking heritage. The Up Helly Aa Viking Fire Festival is famous the world over, a real spectacle which will be a feature of this holiday as we take in cultural experiences and marvel at the parades finishing with the burning of the Galley ship.

FRI 24 JANUARY – THURS 30 JANUARY 2025 Prices: from £1895pp Single supplement: £295 Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) Holly Page.

Price excludes flight from/to Aberdeen.

We mainly focus on coastal wildlife, wildfowl featuring strongly as we search local goose flocks for scarcer species such as Tundra and Taiga Bean, Barnacle and White-fronted (both races) Goose. Birdwatching in sheltered bays can offer Great Northern and Red-throated Diver, Slavonian Grebe, Long-tailed Duck, Eider, Black Guillemot (Tysties), Purple Sandpiper and Turnstone. Glaucous and Iceland Gull occur anywhere the fishing industry is active and there is a chance of Little Auk too. Passerines are scarce at this time but we should see Twite and Rock Pipit, with Snow Bunting and Waxwing possible, while raptors are likely to include Merlin and Peregrine. Shetland is renowned for rarities and in recent winters White-billed Diver, Pied-billed Grebe, Lesser Scaup, Ring-necked Duck, King Eider, Surf Scoter, Brunnich’s Guillemot, Snowy Owl and Gyrfalcon have all been recorded.

On the moors a few Red Grouse might stand out from the heather and Mountain Hare can be found on higher ground such as at Ronas Hill.

It’s a great time of year to look for Otter as individuals wander the coast and lochs in search of food. Cetaceans are fast becoming a feature of a Shetland winter too with Humpback, Fin and Killer Whale more regular in recent years. We will be keen to follow up on any reported animals and we may well see dolphins, Harbour Porpoise, Common and Grey Seal too. With dark skies and little light pollution, winter can also be one of the best periods to witness the stunning Aurora Borealis – there can be no guarantees of course, but with luck we might get a show! Number of centres: 1.

NORTH RONALDSAY and ORKNEY in Spring for birders Brilliant spring birding at our favourite migration outpost.

SAT 4 MAY – FRI 10 MAY, SAT 11 MAY – FRI 17 MAY 2024 SAT 10 MAY – FRI 16 MAY 2025 Prices: from £1695pp Single Supplement £130 Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) Aidan Branch.

This holiday features the best of Orkney in spring, including the fabulous migration outpost of North Ronaldsay. The birding potential here is tremendous, who can forget the 2017 Red-winged Blackbird or the 2019 Mourning Dove! – both enjoyed by Heatherlea groups! We hope to tap into prime-time spring passage, when this tiny island is a magnet for large numbers and a great variety of birds.

We transfer from Heatherlea to mainland Orkney with our ferry crossing offering a variety of seabirds. Our first full day in the field will be spent birding Mainland Orkney where we hope to find nesting birds including Red-throated Diver, Hen Harrier, Short-eared Owl and an abundance of waders. We will take in some of the seabird colonies and if we get word of any scarce migrants or Orca nearby we can be flexible to try and target them too.

The short (15 minute) flight to North Ronaldsay, in the 8 seat, Islander plane offers a unique opportunity to see the beautiful Orkney Islands from above. We stay at the Bird Observatory, the perfect base where we can witness and learn about the daily ringing and bird census throughout our stay. Our birding schedule will be dictated by weather on a largely flat island, with good roads and easy access to most ‘hotspots’.

In the right conditions, fantastic falls of Scandinavian bound migrants can arrive, with Tree Pipit, Pied Flycatcher, Redstart and a wide variety of warblers and finches.

Scarcities including Dotterel, Wryneck, Bluethroat, Red-backed Shrike, Icterine Warbler, Lapland Bunting and Common Rosefinch may be found during this period.

We have timed our visit with one of the best periods for both migrants and rarities – our tours have certainly been lucky in the past! Local breeding birds include Twite, Black Guillemot, Raven, Arctic Tern and Fulmar, while thousands of migrant waders can be present with huge flocks of Turnstone, Purple Sandpiper, Dunlin, Knot and Sanderling lining the beaches, mostly in stunning summer plumage.

Please note that this is a ‘for birders’ tour, principally focused on finding and identifying rare birds of our own. For those who would like a more general tour of North Ronaldsay & Orkney, we recommend our Orkney Island Explorer (p37) or Orkney in High Summer (p41) holidays. Number of centres: 2.

Combine with in 2024:

SCOTTISH ISLANDS

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS NEW! Spring Migration in the Highlands (p28), Birding the Highlands in May (p19), Highlands & Corncrake (p19) Birding the North Coast 500 (p20).

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SCOTTISH ISLANDS Outer Hebrides in Spring (p35), Shetland in Spring for birders (p35). Shetland Island Explorer (p36).

tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

OUTER HEBRIDES in SPRING Superb spring birding on the southern Outer Hebrides.

SAT 11 MAY – FRI 17 MAY, SAT 18 MAY – FRI 24 MAY 2024 SAT 10 MAY – FRI 16 MAY, SAT 17 MAY – FRI 23 MAY 2025 Prices: from £1845pp Single supplement: £195 Max 7 clients per leader. Leaders (2024) Chris Rodger, Ian Ford & Simon Davies.

This cracking holiday celebrates the tremendous birding available here in spring. We stay for six nights on the Outer Hebrides and popular target species include Corncrake, both eagles, Hen Harrier, Short-eared Owl, four Skuas, waders in summer colours, Otter and perhaps the first returning Red-necked Phalarope or lekking Ruff, on the islands of South Uist, Benbecula, and North Uist. We also target any rarities on the southern Hebrides during our visit, and these can be special; Black-billed Cuckoo, White-winged Tern, Snowy Owl, Blyth’s Reed Warbler, Rose-coloured Starling, Arctic Redpoll, Buff-breasted Sandpiper and American Wigeon have all been recorded in recent years, and Dotterel are possible too – a great six days!

We cross the famous Skye Bridge, travelling through the island to Uig. Sea-watching as we cross The Little Minch to Lochmaddy might include skuas, Manx Shearwater and Fulmar, Gannet, Black Guillemot and the other breeding British auks are expected.

Everyone who has ever joined this holiday has seen Corncrake, and we target this special bird almost as soon as we arrive. Corn Bunting, Ringed Plover, Meadow Pipit and Skylark make the machair a special habitat – full of song! Summer-plumaged Great Northern Diver are likely, as are ‘real’ Rock Dove and Raven. Arctic Skua breed, Great Skua are usually seen, and in westerly winds often see passage of Pomarine and Long-tailed Skua offshore, sometimes by the hundreds – unforgettable! Gull numbers are good, with a scattering of scarcities thrown in, such as Iceland and Glaucous Gull. Mountains hold both Golden and White-tailed Eagle, meadows and fields support Hen Harrier and Short-eared Owl, and we often watch Otters playing on the coastline. Rare and delicate Red-necked Phalarope are expected from the middle of the month, and other waders should include Whimbrel, both godwits, and thousands of Dunlin, Knot, Sanderling and Turnstone, many in summer plumage. We return via Skye, before driving to Nethy Bridge on Friday evening after a feast of birds! We stay in comfortable en-suite accommodation throughout.

Number of centres: 1.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Birding the Highlands in May (p19), Highlands & Corncrake (p19), High Season Across the Highlands (p20), Birding the North Coast 500 (p20).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS North Ronaldsay & Orkney in Spring for birders (p34), Shetland Island Explorer (p36), Islands on the Edge (p37), Orkney Island Explorer (p37).

SHETLAND IN SPRING for birders An exciting birding tour of Shetland, targeting rare spring migrants.

SAT 11 MAY – SAT 18 MAY 2024 SAT 10 MAY – SAT 17 MAY 2025 Prices: from £1995pp Single supplement: £245 Price excludes flight from/to Aberdeen. Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) Holly Page.

This holiday combines the long days of late spring with superb birding. May is a great time, with migrants arriving daily (sometimes in impressive 'falls' of hundreds of birds), many in fine breeding colours. We dedicate time to searching for our own rarities, and typical scarce birds include Red-backed Shrike, Bluethroat, Common Rosefinch, Wryneck, Rustic Bunting and Subalpine Warbler, with ‘overshoots’ from the Mediterranean expected. If the winds shift to the south-east, birds of Eastern Europe or even Siberia might be found. Anything is possible!

We take time to bird many of the voes and inlets, looking for passage seaduck and Great Northern Diver. White-billed Diver and King Eider are annual, and on headlands in the west we may see a late Snow or Lapland Bunting, or perhaps passing Dotterel. There is the possibility of Pomarine and Long-tailed Skua on passage in westerlies and our groups have struck lucky in the past, such as in 2019 when they found a spring Buff-breasted Sandpiper!

There are many nesting waders, with Redshank, Lapwing, Curlew, Oystercatcher and Ringed Plover at high densities, large numbers of Twite, Rock Pipit and Wheatear, and rare nesting birds including plentiful Red-throated Diver, Whooper Swan and Whimbrel; a feast of birding!

This holiday is best suited to birders because should a rarity turn up, or if we need to spend time identifying a tricky bird that takes precedent. Historical sites, shops and cultural aspects take a backseat on this holiday in favour of superb birding!

Number of centres: 2.

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Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Birding the Highlands in May (p19).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS North Ronaldsay & Orkney in Spring for birders (p34), Shetland Island Explorer (p36).

Twitter: @heatherleabirds

Instagram: @heatherleabirds

SCOTTISH ISLANDS

A visit to Hermaness on Unst is always superb, with Great and Arctic Skua and nesting waders such as Golden Plover, Snipe and Dunlin at close range on a moorland walk. At the cliffs we have incredible views down into a bustling gannetry and enjoy other seabirds in high numbers at the most northerly part of Britain! Other key destinations include Sumburgh Head, one of the best land-based watchpoints for Killer Whales, under-watched West Mainland for migrants and the island of Fetlar, a good place for Otters and famous for nesting Red-necked Phalarope, which in an ‘early spring’ can return about this time.

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MULL, IONA and THE TRESHNISH ISLES Eagles, Puffins, Otters and more ...

TUES 14 MAY – SAT 18 MAY 2024 TUES 13 MAY – SAT 17 MAY 2025 Prices: from £1745pp Single supplement: £320 Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) James Champion.

Mull is a wildlife paradise, with higher densities of Golden and White-tailed Eagles than anywhere else in Britain, plus Hen Harrier, Short-eared Owl, Raven and a range of northern moorland species. The fields hold many waders, including Snipe, Golden Plover, Curlew, Lapwing and Oystercatcher, and we always plan to spend time Otter watching. All this amongst magnificent scenery, featuring towering cliffs, picturesque shorelines, rocky foreshores, and beautiful pristine beaches.

The coastal habitat is extra special, and we enjoy a thrilling boat trip to the Isle of Staffa, where we have enough time to visit Fingal’s Cave, scanning for Great Skua too.

Later we go to the tiny isle of Lunga, where the ‘Puffin experience’ is one of the best in the British Isles. Passing right by the burrows, the birds are tolerant, and a careful birder can enjoy views at just a few feet. Further along, other auk species, Shag and gulls can be safely appreciated at close range. Photographers will love this! A quiet walk away from the main cliffs and we may hear Twite, Rock Pipit and Wheatear singing. From the boat, we enjoy the breeding seabirds at ‘their level’ perhaps seeing Kittiwake, Manx Shearwater Arctic Tern and perhaps tiny Storm Petrel or cetaceans too As well as thoroughly exploring Mull itself, including some lesser-known hotspots, we visit the small island of Iona. Any lingering Great Northern Diver will be superb in summer finery, and an absorbing day should once again include both eagle species and perhaps Otter. The grassy fields on Iona hold Corncrake, the meadows around the Abbey often a favoured location. There can be up to 20 males calling, and although we can’t guarantee a sighting, we are often rewarded with a glimpse or two and should hear the birds rasping. On recent trips we have seen Common Dolphin, Minke Whale, Killer Whale, Basking Shark and even a Bearded Seal – a really exciting holiday.

Number of centres: 1.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Birding the Highlands in May (p19).

SHETLAND ISLAND EXPLORER A thorough tour of Shetland including Unst, Noss and the famous Mousa broch.

SAT 18 MAY – SAT 25 MAY, SAT 25 MAY – SAT 1 JUNE 2024 SAT 17 MAY – SAT 24 MAY, SAT 24 MAY – SAT 31 MAY 2025 Prices: from £2245pp Single supplement: £275 Price excludes flights from Aberdeen to Sumburgh.

Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) Scott O’Hara.

Shetland is rugged, windswept and wild yet superb when explored in late spring, when long evenings give way to an ethereal twilight known as the ‘Simmer Dim’.

There will be lots of highlights on this trip. We stand on the very far north of Unst, with views past white rocks covered with nesting Gannets to the lighthouse at Muckle Flugga, the most northerly British islands. Another day, we stand by the lighthouse at Sumburgh, Shetland’s most southerly tip, with views to Fair Isle. In-between, our time is devoted to these islands of rolling hills, jagged sea-cliffs and secluded sheltered havens for windblown birds. We also take several spectacular boat trips to visit the more remote offshore islands, all busy with birds.

SCOTTISH ISLANDS

The Shetland Isles are the summer home to some of the biggest seabird colonies in Britain.

At this time Gannet, Puffin, Guillemot, Razorbill and Black Guillemot number over half a million in total. Offshore Kittiwake, Common and Arctic Tern are harassed by marauding Great and Arctic Skua to relinquish their catch. The (endemic) ‘Shetland’ Wren is common, as are breeding Wheatear, Meadow and Rock Pipit and Twite. Moorland lochs host Redthroated Diver in stunning breeding plumage, plus wildfowl and waders. Two birds of national significance which breed here are Whimbrel and Red-necked Phalarope, both with very small populations but we have every chance of finding them at known sites.

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Many guests list a visit to the Storm Petrel colony on Mousa as their highlight. To stand in the best kept iron-age broch in the world at dusk, as tiny Storm Petrels flit around and churr from the walls and stone beaches is truly magical. Shetland is a very good place to see Otters, Common and Grey Seal while cetaceans including Harbour Porpoise, Minke Whale and Orca occur annually, and we will follow up on reports if nearby.

We take two dedicated birding boat trips plus several scheduled ferries as we cover the birdlife of at least six islands. You will visit Fetlar, Mousa and Noss (non-landing), as well as birding extensively on Unst, Yell and Mainland. Truly a holiday for the ‘island explorer’, as we witness some of the most impressive scenery and wildlife in the country; a fantastic experience in the long, northern summer. Number of centres: 2. tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Birding the Highlands in May (p19), Highlands and Corncrake (p19), High Season across the Highlands (p20).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS North Ronaldsay & Orkney in Spring for birders (p34), Outer Hebrides in Spring (p35), Shetland in Spring for birders (p35), Orkney Island Explorer (p37).

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

ISLANDS ON THE EDGE From Coll and Tiree to the Uists.

SAT 25 MAY – SAT 1 JUNE, SAT 8 JUNE – SAT 15 JUNE 2024 SAT 24 MAY – SAT 31 MAY, SAT 7 JUNE – SAT 14 JUNE 2025 Prices: from £2295pp Single supplement: £245 Max 7 clients per departure. Leaders (2024) Alex Rhodes (1st departure), Chris Rodger (2nd departure).

This eight-day, nine-island tour takes us to North Uist, South Uist, Benbecula, Berneray, Barra and Eriskay and boasts three nights on Coll and Tiree. With the machair coming into full bloom, Corncrake rasping, Snipe drumming, Redshank, Arctic and Little Terns vociferously guarding territories, and Basking Shark, Minke Whale and Common and Grey Seals around the white, sandy shorelines, this holiday really is a wonderful celebration of Scottish island wildlife.

The holiday begins in Nethy Bridge, and we drive across Skye taking the ferry to the Outer Hebrides, watching for cetaceans and seabirds in ‘The Minch’ as we go. We explore North and South Uist, Berneray, Benbecula and Eriskay, to see Otter, Golden Eagle, White-tailed Eagle, Hen Harrier, Short-eared Owl, Red-necked Phalarope, terns, skuas, auks, waders, Corncrake, Great Northern Diver, Common Redpoll, and Black Guillemot. Rarities could include Ring-necked Duck, American Wigeon, Glaucous or Iceland Gull, or even Snowy Owl. We reach Barra via Eriskay, and after exploring this small island take the ferry to Tiree, watching again for cetaceans, Basking Shark, auks, divers, Gannet and perhaps Storm Petrel.

Everyone loves to see Corncrake, and Tiree is home to more calling males than anywhere else in Britain. Tiree also has a nationally important population of breeding waders, and the machair is full of Lapwing, Oystercatcher, Redshank, Snipe and Ringed Plover chicks. Pintail is a rare breeder and sounds at night could include the buzzing song of Grasshopper Warbler, the bizarre call of Water Rail, the liquid song of Quail or even the ‘whip-lash’ call of rare Spotted Crake. On nearby Coll, we listen and look for Corncrake, and search for Basking Shark and Otter along the coasts. Perhaps the most under-visited of all large Scottish islands, Coll and Tiree are special places.

Our final ferry takes us between the Ardnamurchan Peninsula and Mull to Oban, keeping our eyes open for Harbour Porpoise, Bottle-nosed, Common and Risso’s Dolphins, Minke Whale and a host of seabirds including Manx Shearwater. From Oban, we drive back to Nethy Bridge. Number of centres: 4.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Birding the Highlands in May (p19), NEW! Highlands & Ailsa Craig (p21), Highlands & Orkney (p21).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Outer Hebrides in Spring (p35).

ORKNEY ISLAND EXPLORER A grand tour of Westray, Hoy, Rousay, Burray and both South and North Ronaldsay.

SAT 25 MAY – SAT 1 JUNE, SAT 8 JUNE – SAT 15 JUNE 2024 SAT 31 MAY – SAT 7 JUNE 2025 Prices: from £2195pp Single supplement: £175 Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) Aidan Branch.

This dedicated trip to Orkney is a wide-ranging exploration of these fabulous islands. The main focus is on birding, though scenery and archaeology are important too on this enjoyable holiday. Hen Harrier and Short-eared Owl will be settling to breed, and Peregrine and Merlin hunt along the meadow fringes. Eight species of duck, including locally uncommon Shoveler and Pintail plus a variety of waders, including breeding Black-tailed Godwit and Snipe and Water Rail also frequent these areas. We visit seabird cliffs, and see waders, divers and passerines including Twite, plus Brown Hare, and Common and Grey Seal.

Another highlight will be our ‘Islander’ flight to the tiny island of North Ronaldsay. Famed for its seaweed eating sheep, we stay at the Bird Observatory, a perfect base to work closely with the wardening team and learn about ‘island life’. In previous years we have seen scarce migrants including Red-backed Shrike, Golden Oriole, Nightjar, Icterine or Marsh Warbler, Bluethroat, Common Rosefinch and even a summering Grey Phalarope. It isn’t all birding though, and we have plenty of time to enjoy the unique feel of this enchanting small island.

On this holiday we also visit some of the finest archaeological sites in Britain. The World Heritage Site settlement of Skara Brae is a must-see, as are Maes Howe, the 6-metre high Standing Stones of Stenness and the 5000-year-old Ring of Brodgar. All entry fees are included in your holiday price and we will also plan to visit the Italian Chapel, Scapa Flow Museum and historic Kirkwall for its sites and for a spot of souvenir hunting in the narrow lanes. Number of centres: 2.

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Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Birding the Highlands in May (p19), NEW! Highlands & Ailsa Craig (p21), Highlands and Orkney (p21).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Shetland Island Explorer (p36).

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SCOTTISH ISLANDS

Island hopping is a key feature of this thorough exploration of Orkney. We visit Westray for its special seabirds, Rousay is famed for archaeology and Hoy is unique in the archipelago; three very different islands all with very different habitats and associated flora and fauna.

On Mainland we have many options selecting the best sites for increased variety, dedicating time to the excellent Birsay Moors, the Loons RSPB and other great wildlife hotspots known to our guides.

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WILDLIFE OF ARGYLL & INNER HEBRIDEAN ISLANDS An exciting tour for all natural history enthusiasts.

SAT 8 JUNE – SAT 15 JUNE 2024 SAT 7 JUNE – SAT 14 JUNE 2025 Prices: from £2245pp Single supplement: £335 Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) James Champion.

Scotland's west coast is a haven for wildlife in summer, and the middle weeks of June in particular offer much for the all-round naturalist. On this varied holiday, we enjoy all this area's flora and fauna, including birds, mammals, butterflies, dragonflies and both night and day flying moths. On this tour we visit exciting places on the mainland in Argyll, and seven islands near Oban, including rarely visited Lismore, Easdale and the Isle of Seil. Better known are Mull for its eagles and otters, Staffa for spectacular geology while the ’Puffin experience’ on Lunga is arguably the best in the UK. Iona with its imposing abbey is green and lush in June, and Corncrake is a possibility on our visit here.

Around the greater Oban area, rare Chequered Skipper and Marsh Fritillary butterflies and scarce dragonflies including Beautiful Demoiselle, Hairy Dragonfly, Northern and Downy Emerald, Southern and Azure Hawker are all targets! On Mull we look for Keeled Skimmer rare Transparent and Slender Scotch Burnet Moth, the latter endemic to Mull and neighbouring Ulva. We plan to run a moth-trap overnight whenever we can too.

Birdlife is naturally abundant around Argyll’s coast and islands. Raptors will be well represented with both Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Hen Harrier and Shorteared Owl likely. Summer plumage divers, breeding waders including Greenshank and Golden Plover and woodland songsters such as Wood Warbler, Cuckoo, Redstart and Spotted Flycatcher also feature among our birding targets. Otters may be encountered anywhere and an exciting boat into the Firth of Lorn for cetaceans and seals, passing the unpopulated Gravellach Isles and the famed Corryvreckan whirlpool will be a highlight. A great tour for the natural history allrounder celebrating the vast range of birds, mammals, insects, wildflowers and the Islands of Argyll. Number of centres: 2

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS NEW! Highlands & Ailsa Craig (p21), Highlands & Orkney (p21).

INNER HEBRIDES from Canna to Iona An Island hoping adventure on the west coast of Scotland.

FRI 21 JUNE – FRI 28 JUNE 2024 FRI 20 JUNE – FRI 27 JUNE 2025 Prices: from £2295pp Single supplement: £290 Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) Ian Ford.

Join us as we travel through the Inner Hebrides and take you to seven beautiful islands, Canna, Eigg, Muck, Mull, Staffa, Lunga and Iona. We also visit remote Ardnamurchan, and explore the scenic west coast between Mallaig and Morvern, a wild area of spectacular natural beauty. The wildlife is truly outstanding, and our days will be filled with seabirds, eagles, otters and cetaceans. The holiday is relaxed, and we stay at three centres as we make our way south from Mallaig to Mull.

SCOTTISH ISLANDS

We enjoy a day exploring Canna by foot, looking for eagles, skuas and other birdlife of the basalt cliffs, sea caves, green meadows, stacks and sandy shores.

Minke Whale is an important target on an unforgettable boat trip across the sea to Eigg and Muck, and Basking Shark, Manx Shearwater, Black Guillemot, Raven, and maybe a tiny Storm Petrel ensure a wildlife day to remember! We may see ‘real’ Rock Dove, Hooded Crow, Red-throated Diver, thousands of Guillemot, Razorbill, a few Puffin, lots of Gannet, Kittiwake... birds all the way! Ardnamurchan peninsula is often overlooked, yet blessed with wonderful wildlife, and we have access to remote wilderness sites here, where we seek Otter.

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On Mull, a true wildlife paradise awaits and with more eagles than anywhere else in Britain we can expect excellent views along with Hen Harrier, Short-eared Owl, Raven and a range of northern moorland species. It is also excellent for flowers and insects, with a good range of species, including Marsh and Dark Green Fritillaries.

We enjoy another thrilling boat trip, first visiting the Isle of Staffa, where we can see Fingal’s Cave and also scan for breeding Great Skua. Any lingering Great Northern Diver will be superb in summer finery and continuing on to the tiny isle of Lunga next, the ‘Puffin experience’ is one of the best in the British Isles! Finally, we visit Iona, where the grassy fields around the ancient abbey hold Corncrake.

There can be up to 20 males calling, and although we can’t guarantee a sighting, we should hear the birds rasping, and may get lucky with a glimpse or two! Number of centres: 3. tel: 01479 821248

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highland Wildlife in Early Summer (p22).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS North Ronaldsay & Orkney in Spring for birders (p34), Outer Hebrides in Spring (p35), Shetland in Spring for birders (p35). Orkney Island Explorer (p37).

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

NORTH-WEST SCOTLAND EXPLORER From mountain top to the sea, a thorough exploration of Scotland’s remote north-west.

A wonderful itinerary, taking in the most underexplored and least populated corners of the British Isles. Featuring Lewis and Harris, at the top of the Outer Hebrides and North-West Mainland Scotland together for the first time, both are widely regarded as two of the most picturesque landscapes in Europe. We explore each thoroughly, the wildlife here reflecting the rich variety of the landscape, from Golden Eagle and Ptarmigan on high mountain tops, bird-filled meadows and croft-land to the bustling seabird colonies on offshore islands.

SAT 22 JUNE – FRI 28 JUNE 2024 SAT 21 JUNE – FRI 27 JUNE 2025 Prices: from £1945pp Single supplement: £360 Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) Mike Coleman.

A holiday requiring a good level of fitness, two or three walks over undulating landscapes or rough ground get us to the more remote, best places for wildlife. We explore the dramatic coastline of the North-west Highlands including its very tip at Cape Wrath, the bustling seabird island of Handa, the mountains and moors of Assynt and the wildlife rich, large island of Lewis and Harris. Our birding will be varied with raptors including eagles, a range of waders perhaps including Red-necked Phalarope, divers in summer plumage, scores of seabirds and plenty of passerines. The holiday is also timed so that floral diversity will be at its highest, including numerous orchids and scarce plants. Otters, seals and cetaceans are all likely too and we make time to enjoy our stunning surroundings and visit historic sites of importance. From the mountain top to the sea, a perfect new tour for the intrepid Heatherlea explorer! Number of centres: 2.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlands & Orkney (p21).

ULTIMATE OUTER HEBRIDES The complete tour, from the rugged north to the scenic south.

SAT 6 JULY – MON 15 JULY 2024 SAT 5 JULY – MON 14 JULY 2025 Prices: from £2695pp Single supplement: £375 Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) Alex Rhodes.

A complete ten day tour of the Outer Hebrides, from the Butt of Lewis at the northernmost point, to Mingulay at the southern end of the island chain. A comprehensive tour through the isles in high summer, we pay special consideration to natural history, including birds, cetaceans, insect life, abundant flora and also key historical and cultural sites, all at a leisurely pace.

Lewis is a fascinating island, internationally important for divers, Greenshank, eagles and other raptors. We head to the northernmost point, the famous Butt of Lewis, a superb seawatching spot, then work our way down the west coast calling in at Dun Carloway broch and the Standing Stones of Callanish. We explore minor roads looking for Golden and White-tailed Eagle, also taking to the water to explore the coastline and sealochs thoroughly. With luck we may connect with cetaceans and perhaps our first Otter and seals. Harris is a scenic gem with a different feel to Lewis with a full range of rugged habitats, long sweeping beaches and dune systems. We spend a full day exploring, and have good chances of Raven, Peregrine, both eagles and perhaps a dashing Merlin.

SCOTTISH ISLANDS

Our ferry to the southern half of the Outer Hebrides takes a slow journey through islets in the Sound of Harris. We spend a morning on Berneray, and head south to Balranald RSPB reserve on North Uist. Famous for its nesting waders, rich machair and seascapes, this is a favourite place on our Hebridean adventures. We take a boat trip down to Mingulay, the largest of the uninhabited islands at the extreme south of the Outer Hebridean archipelago, superb for seabirds and general scenery. This promises to be an exciting day on the water.

On South Uist we look for Otter and Hen Harrier, continuing south one afternoon to Eriskay, another beautiful island now joined by a causeway. We travel by ferry to Barra this island of rich, white sand backed by vibrant green crofting land dotted with outcrops of rock perhaps being one of the most photogenic destinations in Scotland.

Finally, we take the ferry from Barra to Oban, with good chances of Minke Whale or a Basking Shark en-route. Number of centres: 4.

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COLL and TIREE in SUMMER A leisurely exploration of two contrasting Inner Hebridean islands whilst they are at their botanical best.

MON 8 JULY – SAT 13 JULY 2024 Prices: from £1995pp Single supplement: £195 Max 7 clients. Leader Ian Ford.

A delightful holiday visiting two of Scotland’s remotest and most westerly islands. We will pick our sites carefully based on tide, wind and weather enjoying a relaxed paced, natural history exploration of two hidden gems!

Basking Shark is an important target, our visit coinciding with the best time for this strange and impressive large fish. The waters around Coll and Tiree hold some of the highest numbers in the UK, and we may also see them from ferries between Oban and the islands. Seawatching can be excellent too, and our ferry journeys may also produce Storm Petrel, Manx Shearwater and many auks – excitement all the way!

On Coll we look for Otter, breeding Hen Harrier and also plants of the machair. The island has an abundance of orchids with Pyramidal and Frog being key target species, and Common Centaury, Field Gentian and Grass of Parnassus sought too. A full day here will be spent looking for wildlife from waders in bright summer plumage, to insects of the machair, including rare Great Yellow Bumblebee and very rare Red-shanked Carder Bee. During our transfer to Tiree we again look out for Basking Shark, cetaceans and seabirds, arriving on a breathtakingly beautiful island with a ‘big sky’ feeling. Orchids again feature on ‘the machair’ along with Lesser Meadow Rue and other sandy specialists. Seabirds, Corncrake, waders, passerines, rare plants and insects - there is so much to see and do on Coll and Tiree! Both islands have a high density of nesting waders, and with young having fledged most will be in large post-breeding flocks, which can harbour rarities.

Corncrake will still be present, though this late in the season are harder to find in tall grass being less vocal or territorial having attracted a mate. We do of course still have a chance, taking an optional evening drive, listening out for their rasping calls and for Spotted Crake which has bred previously on Tiree. The holiday begins and ends in Oban.

Number of centres: 2.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Eagles, Divers & Dotterel (p23), Highlands & Wester Ross (p24).

SHETLAND WILDLIFE IN SUMMER A wide-ranging natural history holiday at the height of summer.

During the holiday you will see some of the most densely populated seabird colonies in the country. Gannet, Shag, Puffin, Guillemot, Razorbill, Black Guillemot, Kittiwake, Arctic Skua, Common and Arctic Tern are all represented, some in abundance. An evening excursion to the Storm Petrel colony on Mousa will be an exciting highlight, as will a special boat trip to wild Foula off the west coast. There, the waters offer much potential for cetaceans and we also plan to cruise under the sheer cliffs plus explore on foot the home of the largest Great Skua colony in Britain!

SAT 13 JULY – SAT 20 JULY 2024 Prices: from £2395pp Single supplement: £245 Max 7 clients. Leader George Gay. Price excludes flights from Aberdeen to Sumburgh.

With so much to do and see, summer is a superb time to visit Shetland. On this wide-ranging natural history tour there is something for all and our varied itinerary will be of interest to birdwatchers, general wildlife enthusiasts, botanists and island baggers alike.

Freshwater lochans host breeding Red-throated Diver and we seek rare breeding waders including Whimbrel, Golden Plover and delicate Red-necked Phalarope.

Shetland is a good place to see both Otter and Grey Seal, while rare plants could include Oysterplant and Edmunston’s Chickweed, the latter growing only on Unst! We take in all the flora and fauna we encounter, with plenty of opportunity for scenic photography as we go.

SCOTTISH ISLANDS

We intend to see as much of the rugged archipelago as possible, and this tour is definitely one for the island bagger. Visiting eight islands with dedicated trips to Mousa, Foula, Yell, Unst, Fetlar, Noss, Bressay and Mainland Shetland. At a relaxed pace, we take in some of the fascinating historical, cultural and archaeological heritage of the islands within Shetland.

We plan to visit the Jarlshof site, Mousa Broch, a replica Viking longboat and longhouse on Unst and see the town of Scalloway, the ancient capital and home to the Shetland Bus operation during the Second World War. In July, long evenings give way to an ethereal twilight known as the ‘simmer dim’ – Shetland really is a fantastic place to experience the long, northern summer! Number of centres: 2.

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Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Eagles, Divers & Dotterel (p23), Butterflies, Dragons & Birds (p23), Highland Mammals and more (p24), Highland Wildlife in High Summer (p25).

tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

MULL & ARDNAMURCHAN WILDLIFE SPECTACULAR Birds, Mammals and more in a West Coast wilderness.

SAT 20 JULY – SAT 27 JULY 2024 SAT 19 JULY – SAT 26 JULY 2025 Prices: from £2245pp Single supplement: £300 Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) Aidan Branch.

On this spectacular holiday, we explore the wild Ardnamurchan peninsula and ‘Magical’ Mull thoroughly, in an appreciation of all its wildlife! Two great destinations Heatherlea know well, we dedicate time to mammal watching, with butterflies, dragonflies, moths and plants likely to feature too, and of course a range of fabulous birdlife.

Ardnamurchan is one of the most beautiful and wildlife rich parts of Western Scotland.

The regions dramatic scenery often takes centre stage, but it is a haven for wildlife too and especially mammals, with as many as 15 species possible. Pine Marten are commoner here than anywhere else and though still tricky to find, we have every chance of seeing them coming to bait - and in comfort too! Cetaceans including Minke Whale may be seen on our boat trip to Muck, where we plan to land and explore the wildlife of this lovely little island. Among the birds, we expect good views of Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Merlin, Black-throated and Red-throated Diver and perhaps breeding Greenshank.

Relocating to Mull, it is easy to see why this large island is a wildlife lovers paradise.

More Golden and White-tailed Eagle occur here than anywhere else in Britain and with breeding Hen Harrier, Merlin and Short-eared Owl too, raptors will be at the fore.

During this holiday we also visit the enthralling island of Lunga,, the ‘Puffin experience’ perhaps being the best in the British Isles! On Staffa, we marvel at the fascinating geology carved out by the sea, and on Iona, we listen for any late Corncrake. Mull is famous for its Otters, and we hope for great views as many Heatherlea guests have enjoyed over the years!

Two destinations for wildlife enthusiasts of all levels, we plan to run a Moth trap whenever we can, and with dragonflies, butterflies and scarce plants including orchids also featuring, there is something for everyone on this fabulous tour.

Number of centres: 2.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Eagles, Divers & Dotterel (p23), Highlands & Wester Ross (p24), Highlands & Outer Hebrides (p25), Birds & Mammals featuring Muck & Eigg (p26).

ORKNEY IN HIGH SUMMER Wildlife, history and culture throughout Orkney.

SAT 20 JULY - SAT 27 JULY 2024 SAT 19 JULY – SAT 26 JULY 2025 Prices: from £2145pp Single supplement: £185 Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) Chris Rodger.

Orkney is superb in summer, and this island-hopping trip throughout the archipelago will be full of highlights. Botanists will be delighted at tiny and rare Scottish Primrose (in their second flowering period) and other flowers in coastal locations, whilst insect lovers can enjoy rare Greater Yellow Bumblebees at the same time! Birding is good throughout, with an extra special opportunity to see Storm Petrel at close quarters.

We transfer from Heatherlea to Orkney via ferry watching for seabirds and cetaceans from the open deck. Once we arrive, we begin wildlife watching and visit the wonderfully crafted Italian Chapel. Our next few days will see us island

hopping, taking in the full range of Orcadian habitats on fertile Westray, where we enjoy the Gannet colony at Noup Head and Puffins at another site. On Hoy, we walk through the Great Skua colony to view the famous ‘Old Man’ stack and have excellent chances of seeing breeding Hen Harrier and Red-throated Diver, and if lucky White-tailed and Golden Eagle too, both having recently returned after a lengthy absence. On Mainland Orkney, post-breeding waders, Twite and raptors including Merlin are top targets and we visit many of the finest archaeological sites in Britain from the 5000year old Skara Brae settlement, immaculate Maeshowe, Broch of Gurness, the Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar -perhaps the most iconic. All entry fees are included, and we also visit Scapa Flow and the Churchill Barriers with time in Kirkwall or Stromness for their respective historic sites, or a spot of souvenir hunting in the narrow lanes.

An exciting part of this holiday is our trip to North Ronaldsay, beginning with an 8-seater Islander flight to the island offering a unique opportunity to see the Orkney Isles from above. Here we hope to see Storm Petrels, and our visit coincides with the period for ringing studies where large nightly catches, perhaps of over 100 birds might include a rare Leach’s Petrel too! An unforgettable experience, though netting sessions are weather dependent. The birding is always great here and recent rarities have included Great and Cory’s Shearwater, Roseate Tern, Spoonbill, Pacific Golden Plover, Lesser Yellowlegs, Pectoral Sandpiper, Grey Phalarope, Sabine’s Gull, White-winged Black Tern and Two-barred Crossbill - on North Ronaldsay anything is possible! Number of centres: 2.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Eagles, Divers & Dotterel (p23), Butterflies, Dragons and Birds (p23), Highlands & Outer Hebrides (p25), Birds and Mammals incl Eigg & Muck (p26).

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SCOTTISH ISLANDS

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OUTER HEBRIDES in Early Autumn for birders A six day birders tour of Lewis, Harris, Berneray, Benbecula and the Uists.

SAT 24 AUGUST – FRI 30 SEPTEMBER 2024 SAT 6 SEPTEMBER – FRI 12 SEPTEMBER 2025 Prices: from £1895pp Single supplement: £225 Max 7 clients per leader. Leaders (2024) Holly Page & Chris Rodger.

Early autumn is excellent for migration within the Hebrides and is a fantastic, quieter time to visit. Waders may dominate, with an abundance of Dunlin, Knot, Sanderling, both godwits, moulting Golden Plover and more. Scarce migrants might include Grey, Phalarope, Pectoral and Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Dotterel and American Golden Plover. This time of year is also excellent for rare passerines such as Barred Warbler, Rose-coloured Starling, Greenish Warbler, Red-backed Shrike, Common Rosefinch and Lapland Bunting.

The mouth-watering list of rarities found on these islands in recent times during this period includes Nearctic wanderers such as Baird’s, White-rumped, Semi-palmated, Spotted and Western Sandpiper, Longbilled Dopwitcher, Wilson’s Phalarope and Lesser Yellowlegs. Also recorded have been Ring-necked Duck, Snowy Owl, Glaucous Gull, Hoopoe, Sabine’s Gull, American Wigeon, Laughing Gull, Pacific Golden Plover and Britain’s first and only Purple Martin. We also investigate flocks of seaduck off Harris, where Surf Scoter might be found amongst the commoner species.

Birding starts on Skye, perhaps with a Golden Eagle. On the ferry to Lochmaddy all four skuas are possible.

Fulmar, Gannet, Black Guillemot and other auks can be expected along with Storm Petrel, Manx and perhaps Sooty, Balearic or even Great Shearwater. The ferry through the Sound of Harris may produce divers at close quarters, both seals and White-tailed Eagle. Harris is stunning, and we bird scenic bays and iconic beaches before continuing through to Lewis. Here we visit Tiumpan Head and the Butt of Lewis, and a network of shallow lochs, wader rich bays and lochans. Even if migration is slower, we have Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Merlin, Hen Harrier, Short-eared Owl, rafts of seabirds, Eider, and divers to find. Not forgetting Hebridean races of Song Thrush and Wren and key species such as Corn Bunting, Twite and Rock Pipit. Our itinerary will be flexible and we move around (within reason!) according to the best birding.

Number of centres: 2.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Autumn in the Highlands with Easy Walking (p27), Autumn Migration in the Highlands (p28).

NORTH RONALDSAY and ORKNEY in Early Autumn for birders Early Autumn migration on our favourite birding islands!

SAT 24 AUGUST – FRI 30 AUGUST 2024 Prices: from £1695pp Single supplement: £130 Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) Aidan Branch.

Late-August marks the start of passerine migration and being the northernmost island in the Orkney archipelago, North Ronaldsay is a prime location on the Scandinavia-Africa flyway. Since the establishment of the island’s bird observatory in 1987 it has forged a strong reputation as one of Britain’s premier birding site - a must visit for bird watchers!

We’re timing our visit to coincide with the best chance of scarce drift passerines and historically it’s the best time for cryptic Wrynecks to make an appearance.

Barred, Icterine and Marsh Warblers, Red-backed Shrike and Common Rosefinch are also real possibilities occurring annually during this period.

This is optimum time for summer migrants of Scandinavian origin bound for their African wintering grounds. These can include Warbler species such as Willow, Garden and the splendid Wood Warbler, plus Pied and Spotted Flycatchers, Redstarts, Whinchats, Tree Pipits and a number of other regular passerines.

SCOTTISH ISLANDS

In the last five years the island boasts numerous records of Citrine Wagtail (two birds in 2015), Greenish (three in 2015) and Booted Warblers (2012 and 2015) while a number of mouth-watering drift overshoots arriving on nearby shores in recent years will also be on our radar such as Eastern Olivaceous and Sykes Warbler!

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With a variety of habitats, the island also offers fantastic wader passage. Masses of waders pass through at this time, pausing to re-fuel on the coast, lochs and fields on their way to southern wintering grounds – many still in fine summer plumage. In addition to the commoner species, Wood, Green and Common Sandpipers can be expected, as well as Ruff and Black-tailed Godwits in good numbers. Greenshank, Little Stint and Curlew Sandpiper are all possible while regularly recorded rarities during this time have included several each of American Golden Plover, Pectoral Sandpiper and Red-necked Phalarope. Wildfowl numbers also begin to build and on the raptor front there’s always the chance of a southbound Osprey or Marsh Harrier while locally bred Hen Harriers, Merlins and Short-eared Owls frequently visit too.

This is traditionally one of the best times for sea-watching too, and weather permitting we will use the seawatch hide to good effect. Being at the northern head of the diamond shaped group of islands provides the perfect position to observe storm driven sea-birds as they leave the North Sea and make their way tel: 01479 821248

back out into the Atlantic. Large movements of Sooty Shearwaters, Storm Petrels and Skuas can take place and this is the best time of year and the best location to give any avid seawatcher the chance of adding Great, Cory’s and Balearic Shearwater to their Scottish list! A couple of Fea’s Petrels have also even been recorded passing the island during the dates of our chosen week!

We also enjoy birding around Orkney, visiting hotspots known to our guides where anything can happen! If there is time we may visit the impressive standing stones at the Ring of Brodgar and stop at the delightful Italian Chapel, however these are ‘for birders’ tours, principally focused on finding and identifying rare birds. For a more general tour of North Ronaldsay & Orkney, we recommend our Orkney Island Explorer (p37) or Orkney in High Summer (p41) holidays.

Number of centres: 2.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Autumn in the Highlands with Easy Walking (p27), Autumn Migration in the Highlands (p28).

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

NORTH RONALDSAY AND ORKNEY IN AUTUMN for birders Superb Autumn birding at a remote island outpost.

SAT 14 SEPTEMBER – FRI 20 SEPTEMBER 2024 SAT 21 SEPTEMBER – FRI 27 SEPTEMBER 2024 SAT 13 SEPTEMBER – FRI 19 SEPTEMBER 2025 SAT 20 SEPTEMBER – FRI 26 SEPTEMBER 2025 Prices: from £1695pp Single supplement: £130 Max 7 clients per departure. Leaders (2024) Simon Davies (1st departure), Holly Page (2nd departure).

Few birders venture to this remote outpost, so expect peace and quiet with a strong sense of exploration, and depending on the predominant wind direction, birds from east or west.

In favorable conditions, passage migrants may include Willow, Garden and Wood Warbler, Pied and Spotted Flycatcher, Redstart, Whinchat, Tree Pipit and other common passerines.

Island habitats are varied, offering fantastic wader passage and joining commoner species can be Greenshank, Black-tailed Godwit, Wood, Green, Common and Curlew Sandpiper, Little Stint while regular Nearctic rarities have included American Golden Plover, Pectoral and Buff-breasted Sandpiper. Osprey, Marsh and Hen Harrier, Merlin and Short-eared Owl frequently visit too, and while can be no guarantee of any particular species, North Ronaldsay is always surprising and very rewarding.

We work alongside the highly skilled Bird Observatory staff, who will be out birding and ringing, depending on the weather. We will have the option of joining in these activities most days. A completely different birding holiday destination,where in favourable weather and depending on the time of year, scarcities might include Red-backed Shrike, Richard’s Pipit, Wryneck, Bluethroat, Red-breasted Flycatcher, Barred, Icterine, Yellow-browed and Marsh Warbler, Common Rosefinch, Ortolan, Lapland and Little Bunting. More extreme rarities might include Great Snipe, Citrine Wagtail, Pechora or Olive-backed Pipit, Radde’s, Greenish, Arctic and Lanceolated Warbler, Brown Shrike, Rustic Bunting and Arctic Redpoll.

Seawatching can be exceptional, and the early date is traditionally a good time when large movements of Sooty Shearwater, Storm Petrel and skuas can take place. It is also the best time for Great, Cory’s and Balearic Shearwater. Number of centres: 2.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS The Outer Limits Adventure (p28), NEW! Highland Autumn Explorer (p29), Highlands & Skye in Autumn (p29).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Shetland in Autumn for birders (p43).

SHETLAND in AUTUMN for birders Rarity hunting at the top of Britain.

SAT 21 SEPTEMBER – SAT 28 SEPTEMBER 2024 SAT 28 SEPTEMBER – SAT 5 OCTOBER 2024 SAT 20 SEPTEMBER – SAT 27 SEPTEMBER 2025 SAT 27 SEPTEMBER – SAT 4 OCTOBER 2025 Prices: from £1995pp Single supplement: £275 Price includes all ferries. Price excludes flight from Aberdeen.

Max 7 clients per leader. Leaders (2024) Chris Rodger & Aidan Branch.

Possibilities are almost endless, with American and Siberian birds coming through on favourable winds, often at the same time! Previous goodies have included Blackburnian Warbler, Pallid Harrier, Surf Scoter, Little Auk, American Golden Plover, Buff-breasted, Spotted and Pectoral Sandpipers, Hudsonian Whimbrel, Grey Phalarope, Wryneck, Bluethroat, Red-backed and both Lesser and Great Grey Shrikes, Short-toed Lark, Pechora, Richard’s, Olive-backed and Buff-bellied Pipits, Citrine Wagtail, Red-breasted and Taiga Flycatchers, White’s Thrush, Swainson’s Thrush, Veery, Red-flanked Bluetail, Yellow-browed, Yellow-rumped, Marsh, Barred, Lanceolated, Arctic and Blyth’s Reed Warblers, Arctic Redpoll, Common Rosefinch, Little, Rustic and Lapland Bunting. A real feast of birding!

Exactly what turns up depends upon the weather, so there are no guarantees, but we try and find our own birds and twitch good ones as we travel around the islands. If the wind is in the east, then large falls of finches, thrushes and crests are also likely.

Please note that this is a Birders tour, principally focused on finding and identifying rare birds of our own, with frequent trips to see the rarities others have found. We will have some time for cultural, historical and retail requests, but birding comes first on this particular holiday. For those that want a more general tour of Shetland, we thoroughly recommend our Shetland Island Explorer holiday (p36). Number of centres: 2.

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Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Outer Limits Adventure (p28), Highlands and Skye in Autumn (p29), Raptors & Grouse (p30).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS North Ronaldsay & Orkney in Autumn for birders (p43).

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SCOTTISH ISLANDS

This thrilling holiday offers the chance to see a variety of rare and scarce migrants amid spectacular scenery. We stay in two centres at either end of Mainland Shetland, allowing us to spread our wings and locate highly desirable rare birds more easily. We will cover all the key birding locations for autumn migration including the outer isles if the weather and ferry availability allow!

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OUTER HEBRIDES in AUTUMN for birders Rarity hunting in the Outer Hebrides, birding South Uist, Benbecula, North Uist, Berneray, Harris and Lewis!

SAT 5 OCTOBER – FRI 11 OCTOBER 2024 SAT 4 OCTOBER – FRI 10 OCTOBER 2025 Prices: from £1895pp Single supplement: £225 Max 7 clients per leader. Leaders (2024) Holly Page & Dave Pearce.

The Outer Hebrides are famous for rarities in autumn, and this is a real birders’ treat as we seek wind-blown rarities at a great time of year. A good amount of our effort will be spent looking for rare birds, checking patches of cover, ditches and gardens and we also work through the flocks of waders, ducks or passerines, as vagrants hide amongst their commoner cousins. Our recent finds have included a good number of American vagrants following westerly gales, with White-rumped, Baird’s, Pectoral and Spotted Sandpipers, American Golden Plover and Lesser Yellowlegs.

If winds are from the east Yellow-browed Warbler, Rose-coloured Starling, Arctic Redpoll and Red-breasted Flycatcher occur annually.

Almost anything is possible here, with incredibly rare birds recorded at this time in recent years including Wilson’s Warbler, Hermit Thrush, White’s Thrush, Buff-bellied, Pechora and Olive-backed Pipit, Long-billed Dowitcher, Least and Semi-palmated Sandpiper, Snowy Owl, Red-eyed Vireo and Ovenbird. If migration is slower, superb resident Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Hen Harrier, Merlin and Twite and not forgetting Otters are all there to entertain! Regular, expected migrants at this time of year include all three divers, Long-tailed Duck and scoter, Snow and Lapland Bunting, Jack Snipe and good numbers of Purple Sandpiper, Golden Plover and Sanderling, with Whooper Swan and Barnacle Geese arriving from the north.

With the Atlantic Ocean to scan, and ‘The Minch’ to cross twice, we are sure to pick up a good list of seabirds with Sabine’s Gull, Sooty Shearwater and Pomarine Skua perhaps featuring alongside Storm Petrel, Manx Shearwater, auks and skuas. Cetaceans have included Minke Whale and Common and Bottle-nosed Dolphins. Our exact itinerary will be based on your guide’s judgement regarding wind, tide and recent sightings. With stunning autumnal light on the rugged landscape, we are sure of a memorable trip. Number of centres: 2.

Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlands and Skye in Autumn (p29), Highland Autumn Birding (p30).

ISLAY and JURA Brilliant Autumn birding on stunning Hebridean islands.

Islay is beautiful, with soft, rolling scenery and wonderful birdlife. We see large goose flocks including thousands of Barnacles and Greenland White-fronted. The sight and noise are unforgettable, and our mobile-hide minibus is invaluable when scouring flocks at close quarters. We may find Brent (pale-bellied), Greylag, Pink-footed and perhaps wild Canada Goose, but our real effort will go into rarity hunting! Snow, Red-breasted, and races of Lesser Canada and Cackling Goose have all been seen.

SAT 19 OCTOBER – THURS 24 OCTOBER 2024 SAT 18 OCTOBER – THURS 23 OCTOBER 2025 Prices: from £1795pp Single supplement: £295 Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) Aidan Branch.

SCOTTISH ISLANDS

Chough breed on Islay, and we should see them floating on the breeze at very close quarters. Other regulars include Twite and Snow Bunting. We search for three diver species, Black Guillemot and other auks, and ducks with numbers of Scaup, Eider and perhaps a few Long-tailed and Common Scoter. We watch for local Golden and White-tailed Eagle and also present are Hen Harrier, Peregrine and regular Merlin. Waders include Golden Plover, Curlew, Lapwing, Oystercatcher, Dunlin, Ringed Plover, Turnstone, Sanderling and a few Purple Sandpiper, with the chance of American rarities. Jura is well worth a visit for the scenery alone and is renowned for its population of Red Deer and we search for Otter along the coastline. Number of centres: 1.

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Combine with in 2024: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highland Autumn Birding (p30).

tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

New

NEW! HEBRIDEAN ISLAND EXPLORER

A combination tour with top wildlife experiences, key archaeological sights, and stunning island scenery.

for 2

025

SAT 3 MAY – FRI 9 MAY 2025

Price: from £2395pp Single supplement: £235 Max 7 clients. Full details on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

An archipelago of mixed habitats featuring rugged mountains, peat moorland, pristine sandy beaches, freshwater lochs and the distinctive machair, the Outer Hebrides are undoubtedly some of the most beautiful islands in Scotland! On this new tour, we enjoy some fantastic wildlife at a time of year when breeding birds and passage migrants may be watched side by side.

We explore by land and sea, enjoying two brand new boat trips where we see forgotten villages along the west coast of Harris from a different perspective, and the wildlife inhabiting the islands and sea skerries to the east of Benbecula. Both will be firm highlights, and sightings from these unique sailings may include Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Great Northern, Red-throated and Black-throated Diver, Common and Arctic Tern, auks including Black Guillemot, Red Deer, Otter, seals, cetaceans and more!

On dry land, and with the grass still short it is the best time to look for newly arrived, and often vocal Corncrake. In the Uists, Hen Harrier and Short-eared Owl are also abundant, while breeding passerines include Corn Bunting, Twite, Skylark and Wheatear. Summer-plumaged waders around the coasts and on the machair should include Golden Plover, Whimbrel, Black and Bar-tailed Godwit, Dunlin, Sanderling, Knot, Purple Sandpiper and Turnstone, with chances of Ruff and Dotterel too.

With three nights at each of our two centres, we combine our wildlife experiences with key archaeological and historic sights, and stunning island scenery. On Lewis, we walk among the Standing Stones at Callanish, with time dedicated to Dun Carloway Broch, the Blackhouse at Arnol and Lewes Castle too. On Benbecula and the Uists, we visit many new places perhaps including the Bronze age site at Cladh Hallan and its stunning beach - there is certainly something for everyone on this new Outer Hebrides itinerary.

NEW! OUTER HEBRIDES SUMMER EXPLORER An exciting new tour to the Hebrides, featuring TWO boat trips and some less visited islands.

SAT 28 JUNE – FRI 4 JULY 2025

Price: from £2345pp Single supplement: £225 Full details on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

This is a real adventure, working our way from the Butt of Lewis at the top of the Hebridean chain, enjoying great wildlife and some rarely visited islands as we work our way down to South Uist. It is a brilliant time to visit the archipelago, as young birds including waders take their maiden flights and an abundance of raptor chicks reach the point of fledging too. Breeding birds are busy, and we try and get you to some of the quieter places for wildlife.

Dividing our time between Lewis, Harris, Benbecula and the Uists we search for a variety of wildlife in remote areas.

Raptors will feature, with Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Hen Harrier, Merlin, Peregrine and Short-eared Owl all likely.

Other key birds include Red-throated and Black-throated Diver, Black Guillemot, Golden Plover, Greenshank, Great and Arctic Skua, Common, Arctic and Little Tern, Corn Bunting and Twite. We look for Red-necked Phalarope at the quietest lochs and have chances of Corncrake, though a sighting at this time of year is less likely with the grass long, but we should still hear them. We enjoy all wildlife on this tour, looking out for Otter and seals off the coasts and appreciate the wildflower machair which should be in full bloom by now!

With two boat trips in the itinerary, we will certainly be busy. One of them will plan to land on Taransay, a beautiful and isolated island featuring in the Castaway reality series over 20 years ago! We also visit key historic sites including the Callanish Standing Stones, explore the truly wild Uig peninsula for eagles and seabirds and look out for cetaceans in the Minch from Tiumpan Head and during ferry crossings. Come and join us on this fabulous new holiday to the Outer Hebrides!

NEW! ST KILDA and the HEBRIDES Great local birding and exciting migration in Caithness and north-east Highlands.

MON 7 JULY – MON 14 JULY 2025

Price: from £3595pp This is a very special and unique holiday, with eight days on the ocean wave aimed at reaching the outpost of St Kilda. One of Scotland’s five World Heritage Sites, in reasonable weather we hope to anchor in Village Bay for two nights giving us ample time to explore the largest island, Hirta. This should give us time to look for St Kilda Wren, a distinctive subspecies, plus St Kilda Field Mouse, Soay Sheep and take in some of the remarkable history of the former community. One of the most special destinations on the Heatherlea calendar, the sunrise and sunset can be as good as any in the world in good weather!

Starting and finishing in Oban, we plan to visit many other remote places during our voyage, perhaps including Loch Sunart on the Morvern peninsula, and/or the islands of Canna, Taransay and Vatersay. Our itinerary needs to be flexible and there are of course no guarantees - St Kilda is a difficult place to get to even in summer months! The weather can intervene at any time and should we be unable to reach Hirta, our skipper/guides know the best places and islands to seek shelter and still enjoy great wildlife.

Rightly famous for its huge seabird colonies, the spectacle and clamour of one million birds at the height of their breeding season in north-west Europe’s largest seabird colony is an unforgettable experience. Highlights include Puffin (more than 250,000 – St Kilda is home to the largest colony in Britain) plus high numbers of Guillemot, Razorbill and Black Guillemot. The cliffs contain extensive ledges for breeding Fulmar (more than 100,000 – the largest colony in Western Europe) with Shag crammed into every nook and cranny below them. The Gannet colony is the largest in the world, estimated at over 120,000 birds and though Great and Arctic Skua populations have suffered recent decline, we should still see plenty.

As we travel, Manx Shearwater, Storm and Leach’s Petrel are likely, and though over 90% of the European breeding population of the latter (some 90,000 birds!) are on St Kilda, we are more likely to see them during sea passage. We plan to go ashore and explore whenever we can, and other birds during ‘landings’ might include Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Hen Harrier, Merlin, Peregrine, Eider, Red-breasted Merganser, Golden Plover, Greenshank, Curlew, Snipe, Common, Arctic and Little Tern, Wheatear and Twite. There is even an outside chance of hearing Corncrake should we land on Canna. We look out for Otter and seals on rocky beaches and inlets, with Basking Shark, Common and Risso’s Dolphin, Harbour Porpoise and Minke Whale (and perhaps larger whales…) all very possible on the voyage of a lifetime!

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SCOTTISH ISLANDS

Full details on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 9.

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WELCOME TO THE REST OF THE UK Although Scotland is the home of Heatherlea, our guides hail from throughout the UK, and can regularly be found out and about in various birding spots across England and Wales as well!

On these holidays, we fully delve into the local area, visiting the well-known birding hotspots, reserves, bird observatories, as well as the remote, little-known corners where birding is excellent, but the hordes are absent!

As with our Scottish Isles trips, each holiday has a maximum number of seven guests per guide meaning more of that personal attention and even more sightings! All of the wider UK holidays are ideal for birders and general wildlife enthusiasts alike, as many of the trips will take in the diverse flora, mammal, and bug life of the areas we visit, and we’ve also been known to throw in some culture and history as well at times! Everyone is welcome!

There are also some autumnal ‘for birders’ trips to Cornwall and Scilly – the hassle-free way to visit the traditional location for congregations of birders eager to find the next major rarity blown into the picturesque archipelago from across The Atlantic or from Eastern Asia.

Group sightings and reports from the field are regularly posted onto our social media channels, so keep in touch with our sightings by subscribing today, or sign up to our E-newsletter for monthly updates.

For more details, including a Trip Report from any of our recent holidays, see our website www.heatherlea.co.uk. If you have any questions, please contact us, we will be happy to answer any queries you may have. Emma, Fleur, Jolene, Holly, Mark and Sarah are here to help.

REST OF THE UK

In order to share years of local knowledge, Heatherlea offers a few carefully selected holidays around the British mainland - from the south of Scotland all the way down to Cornwall, and onwards to the Isles of Scilly. Have you always wanted to explore the Northumberland coast, but don’t know where to start? Pondered visiting the quiet bits of Lancashire and The Wirral? Want to

see Hawfinch in The Forest of Dean? Choughs on Anglesey? Or want to learn the top places to visit for the best sightings in well-watched Norfolk and Suffolk?

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tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

NORFOLK and SUFFOLK in WINTER Birding some of the best wetlands in Britain!

SAT 10 FEBRUARY – SAT 17 FEBRUARY 2024 SAT 8 FEBRUARY – SAT 15 FEBRUARY 2025 Prices: from £1695pp Single supplement: £265 Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) Barry Embling.

An exciting holiday to some of the UK’s premier winter birding destinations. East Anglia offers a wide variety and unrivalled birding potential at this time of year, a high species list and superb wildlife encounters are likely. We’ll spread our time between established reserves and also visit many superb lesser-known sites, well away from the beaten track.

Norfolk and Suffolk are home to some of the best wetlands in the UK. Bittern will be a top target, and we also hope to see Common Crane in the fields and as they come to roost in the Broads. Wildfowl will feature highly, with Whooper and Bewick’s Swan and vast numbers of wintering geese. By day we’ll search through Pink-footed and Darkbellied Brent Geese for scarcer species including Taiga and Tundra Bean, both races of White-fronted, Barnacle and Black Brant, while mass dusk flights will be a true spectacle. Offshore a variety of sea-duck, divers, grebes and auks make for excellent sea-watching, while in rougher conditions storm driven species might include Little Auk, skuas (such as Great and Pomarine) or perhaps Grey Phalarope.

Internationally important wader numbers feed on the tidal estuaries, with Knot and Dunlin dominating though Avocet, Golden and Grey Plover, Spotted Redshank and Purple Sandpiper are likely. Beaches and saltmarsh hold Twite, Snow Bunting, Water Pipit and Shorelark, while Bearded Tit and Cetti’s Warbler can be found at several sites. Any wintering rarities will be on our radar too and in recent years these have

included Great Grey Shrike, Parrot Crossbill, Hume’s and Pallas’s Warbler and Arctic Redpoll.

Farmland, heaths and ‘the Brecks’ offer a fantastic change of scenery with a range of declining species available and there’s also the chance of Brambling, Woodlark, Hawfinch and Crossbill. This is a trip with something for everyone as we check local gulls for rarer species, and raptors will feature strongly. Hen and Marsh Harrier, Rough-legged Buzzard, Peregrine, Merlin and Goshawk are all possible along with five owl species if really lucky. A fantastic winter holiday! Number of centres: 2.

FOREST OF DEAN and THE SOMERSET LEVELS Excellent winter birding, including some difficult and highly sought-after UK species.

SAT 24 FEBRUARY – SAT 2 MARCH 2024 SAT 22 FEBRUARY – SAT 1 MARCH 2025 Prices: from £2145pp Single supplement: £300 Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) Barry Embling.

An opportunity to enjoy some of the best winter birding in England, as we search for elusive and sought-after forest species, and also seek wintering waders and wildfowl in estuary and wetland locations.

Rewarding birding in three fascinating and very different habitats in the south-west of England.

We first visit the Forest of Dean, around 35 square miles of mixed woodland nestled between the River Severn and River Wye on the Gloucestershire/Welsh border. The Forest holds some of the oldest Oak woods left in England and is arguably the best place in the country to see Hawfinch and Goshawk, two of the UK’s hardest-to-find breeding species.

Next, we explore the Severn estuary, an excellent place for wintering wildfowl and waders, and we may see Greenland White-fronted Geese, Bewick's Swan, godwits, raptors and more. We visit WWT Slimbridge, Peter Scott's flagship reserve, and Symonds Yat viewpoint, home to a resident pair of Peregrine.

In the Somerset Levels we'll be looking for wintering wildfowl and wetland species, including Bittern, Water Rail, Marsh Harrier, thousands

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of wintering duck, Little and Great White Egret, Pochard, Shoveler, Gadwall, Teal and Goldeneye amongst many others. We will also be looking for the population of Common Crane which call the Levels home, and of course the UK's largest Starling roost with up to a million birds, which if attacked by raptors will go into their mesmerising murmuration, a truly unforgettable experience! Number of centres: 2.

This holiday starts in Gloucester and ends in Bridgwater.

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REST OF THE UK

In March, resident Hawfinch numbers are boosted by continental wintering birds. They favour a small number of favourite feeding places, thereby increasing our chances of seeing them. The Forest also holds perhaps the highest density of Goshawk in the country, and the birds will be starting to display at this time. We know ‘secret’ places to find these elusive species, often overlooked by visiting birders, and local contacts will also be useful for up-to-date information. The Forest of Dean also supports an established population of over 200 free-living British Wild Boar; this is probably the best place to see them in the country.

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CORNWALL in SPRING Migrants and rare breeders on the beautiful Cornish coast.

THURS 18 APRIL – THURS 25 APRIL 2024 THURS 17 APRIL – THURS 24 APRIL 2025 Prices: from £1895pp Single supplement: £125 Max group size 7. Leader (2024) Toby Green.

Join us for great birding in Cornwall, one of the most under-watched counties in the UK! Its 400 miles of superb coastline, steep cliffs, beautiful valleys and estuarine habitat all offer good birding. Based in Penwith in the far west, we explore many birding sites with northbound summer migrants high on our agenda.

Seabirds, wildfowl, waders and passerines will feature, and if lucky we may connect with a rarity, there are many possibilities.

Our schedule will be flexible around up-to-date local bird news and of course the weather. April is a great time to visit, and extensive knowledge of all the birding hotspots and lesser-known sites gives us great chances. Key sites include Marazion Marsh, a wetland site for wildfowl and waders, Cetti’s Warbler; ‘valley birding’ will begin at Porthgwarra, the most south-westerly point of Mainland Britain, and here we search for migrants, checking patches of trees and scrub.

Passing Cuckoo, Ring Ouzel, Wheatear, Whinchat, Redstart, Pied and Spotted Flycatchers, hirundines, pipits, finches, thrushes and a variety of warblers are all possible. Land’s End is one of the best birding locations in the UK. Isolated bushes and scrub are sparser than in the valleys, and the track record for rarities here is incredible, with Dotterel, Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Common Crane, Black Kite, Montagu’s Harrier, Alpine Swift, Snowy Owl, Woodchat, Red-backed and Brown Shrike, Hoopoe, Golden Oriole, Short-toed Lark, Tawny and Red-throated Pipit, Western Subalpine, Melodious and Icterine Warbler, Ortolan and Little Bunting all recorded in recent springs!

We visit the Lizard Peninsula where Chough famously first made their return and Dartford Warbler are found. We also enjoy a boat trip into Mount’s Bay where Gannet, auks including a few Puffin, Fulmar, Kittiwake, Manx Shearwater, Arctic Skua and terns are likely to be around. Seals, cetaceans and perhaps Basking Shark

may be encountered, and we may even see peculiar Sunfish or frantic Atlantic Blue Fin Tuna. A great trip!

A special feature will be our search for Cirl Bunting. With a very small and rangerestricted population, this is a rare and difficult to see bird in the UK. The species is now breeding again in parts of southern Cornwall and we make a special effort to see them. Number of centres: 1.

Combine with: ‘Isles of Scilly in Spring’ (p48).

ISLES OF SCILLY in SPRING Birds, wildlife and island culture in stunning surroundings akin to the Mediterranean!

FRI 26 APRIL – THURS 2 MAY 2024 FRI 25 APRIL – THURS 1 MAY 2025 Prices: from £2095pp Single supplement: £195 Max 7 clients per leader. Leaders (2024) Toby Green and Martin Elliott.

The Scillies are without doubt one of the most stunning and idyllic parts of the United Kingdom, a ‘must visit’ location boasting a diverse range of wildlife opportunities. 28 miles south-west of Land’s End, with shallow waters and a climate more akin to the Mediterranean, this is a fabulous place for birding as migrants move north. On this spring itinerary, we stay on the largest Island, St Mary’s, visiting the four other inhabited islands on daily excursions. The Scillies are famed for attracting rarities at any time of year, and while we plan to birdwatch at a more leisurely pace than our … for birders … tour in autumn, we may see attractive Mediterranean overshoots such as Hoopoe, Golden Oriole, Night Heron or Woodchat Shrike.

REST OF THE UK

On Tresco, entry to the world-famous Abbey Gardens is included, and we bird along beaches for Sanderling, Dunlin, Turnstone, Greenshank, Whimbrel and Mediterranean Gull. If time allows, we venture to Castle Down where Merlin and Peregrine may be hunting, and Golden Plover, Wheatear, Stonechat, pipits and wagtails may be found on moorland between two ruined castles.

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Bryher and St Martin’s are quieter places offering superb birdwatching potential while the views out over the reefs from tiny St Agnes are spectacular. During a special boat trip to a sixth island, uninhabited Annet, Puffins will be a highlight, as these enchanting birds settle down for their breeding season, with other seabirds, seals and perhaps cetaceans also featuring.

Northbound migrants can be varied, and in the right conditions large numbers of birds can make landfall resulting in exciting birdwatching. Famed for rare and scarce vagrants the possibilities are endless and Wryneck and Red-rumped Swallow are regularly recorded each spring.

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The trip will run at a relaxed pace, with time to enjoy the scenery and beauty of each island (and a local ice cream and Cornish Pasty too!) as well as its wildlife.

Our guides are experienced here and a flexible approach as we explore on foot allows us to make the most of each island within the archipelago. Number of centres: 1.

Combine with: Cornwall in Spring (p48).

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NEW! SUSSEX, HAMPSHIRE & KENT IN SPRING Breeding birds and migrants as we explore three bird-rich counties in the south east.

SAT 18 MAY – SAT 25 MAY 2024 Prices: from £1995pp Single supplement: £410 Max group size 7. Leader Barry Embling.

A new holiday combining bird-rich Sussex with day visits to The New Forest in Hampshire to the west and to the Dungeness reserves on the Kent coast to the east. Split over two centres, much of our time will be spent local to our first accommodation in West Sussex, where we have ample opportunity to explore nearby hotspots including Pagham, Selsey Bill, the Arun Valley and the less visited West Sussex Heathlands. Two nights further east at the end of the week will bring our tour to a great climax, with exciting locations such as Rye Harbour and Dungeness on our doorstep.

Tour highlights will be frequent and varied. Sussex is one of the few remaining counties where purring Turtle Dove still occur in reasonable numbers and we should also encounter breeding White Stork as part of one of the UK's largest rewilding projects. Birding on heathland at dusk, we hope to encounter churring Nightjar and roding Woodcock, with calling Tawny Owl contributing to a stunning evening’s birding. We visit known sites to scan for displaying Honey Buzzard, with singing Cuckoo, Tree Pipit, Woodlark and one of the best kept secret views in Sussex. Nightingale belting out their song and reeling Grasshopper Warbler are familiar sounds and an early morning visit to a wetland reserve may allow us a glimpse of both species too. Also likely are many waders in breeding plumage including, the sounds and sights of tern colonies alongside recent colonists such as Cattle Egret moulting into summer plumage.

A day trip to the New Forest National Park looking for its special wildlife will be another trip highlight. Here, a range of raptors including Goshawk, Hobby and shy Honey Buzzard may be possible as well as scarce Firecrest, Dartford Warbler and

Hawfinch. Latter stages of the tour will be spent exploring sites in East Sussex and Kent, where Rye and Dungeness both combine good numbers of breeding birds and exciting migration. Booming Bittern may be possible, as are breeding Great Egret, Avocet, Marsh Harrier and there are good chances of rarities too. All combine for a thrilling week’s birding in fantastic coastal and woodland scenery.

Number of centres: 2.

PEAK DISTRICT, YORKSHIRE COAST & NORFOLK in Spring A rewarding tour of the breeding birdlife of eastern and northern England!

SUN 2 JUNE – SUN 9 JUNE 2024 SUN 1 JUNE – SUN 8 JUNE 2025 Prices: from £2045pp Single supplement: £195 Max group size 7. Leader (2024) Dave Pearce.

We begin in South Yorkshire in the Dark Peak region of the Peak District, an area typified by extensive open areas of upland heather moorland, with steep-sided ‘cloughs’ or small valleys incised into the hills, often containing relict oak and birch woodland. Below the moorland edge, coniferous plantations, broad-leaved woodlands and water-supply reservoirs with fast flowing streams in the valleys add to the upland landscape and scenery. We visit a range of sites and look for key species which breed in this upland area, including Red Grouse, Golden Plover, Short-eared Owl, Merlin, Whinchat and Ring Ouzel on the moorland, Pied Flycatcher, Spotted Flycatcher, Redstart, Wood Warbler and Crossbill in the woodland and adjacent habitats, Little Ringed Plover and Common Sandpiper on the reservoir margins and we venture out for an evening visit to the moorland edge for Nightjar and Woodcock.

From our base in the Peak District we take a day trip to the Yorkshire coast and the breeding seabird colonies at RSPB Bempton Cliffs, where we will see a range of species including Puffin, Gannet, Kittiwake, Razorbill, Guillemot, Fulmar and Shag, most at close range from the cliff tops. We also have a leisurely walk around the nearby headland at Flamborough seeking migrants in the hedgerows and scrub and look out for Corn Bunting and Red Kite whilst driving across the Yorkshire Wolds on our journey to and from the coast.

For the next part of the tour, we travel south-east to Norfolk and our second base near King’s Lynn in West Norfolk. On the way we break our journey in south Lincolnshire to visit Frampton Marsh RSPB on the western margin of The Wash, one of the broadest estuaries in the UK. Here we spend time looking for migrant waders which may include Curlew Sandpiper, Little Stint or perhaps a rarity, plus Facebook: heatherleabirdwatching

other migrants such as Little Gull and Black Tern and late winter visitors such as Brent Goose. Our hotel is well positioned for access to birding sites in Breckland where we look for Stone Curlew and Woodlark, in particular at Weeting Heath NWT, and a range of birds in the wetland fen habitat at RSPB Lakenheath reserve, including Crane, Bittern, Garganey, Bearded Tit, Cetti’s Warbler and several species of summer migrant warbler. We are also well placed for visiting Titchwell RSPB and Cley Marshes NWT, two of Britain’s premier birding sites on the North Norfolk coast. Our day birding on the Norfolk coast should give us many potential highlights, such as Dartford Warbler and Woodlark on the coastal heathland and a wide range of wetland and marshland birds including Bittern, Spoonbill, several wildfowl and wader species, gulls, terns, raptors and passerines.

A rewarding tour of the breeding birdlife of eastern and northern England!

Number of centres: 2.

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REST OF THE UK

This two-centre holiday is designed to cover a broad cross-section of upland and lowland bird species including spring migrants and breeding birds from several different habitats including moorland, woodland, heathland, wetland and coast. It is especially useful as an introduction to birding for beginners, or for those seeking speciality species.

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SOUTH WALES in SUMMER Great birding on land and sea, in a lesser-known region of Wales.

SAT 1 JUNE – SAT 8 JUNE 2024 SUN 8 JUNE – SUN 15 JUNE 2025 Prices: from £2095pp Single supplement: £330 Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) Barry Embling.

South Wales is a lesser-known birding holiday destination just waiting to be explored! A region with much to offer, a strong diversity of habitats, easy access and remarkably varied landscape - and of course a great many birds. We begin in the east near the Welsh Borders in Monmouthshire before relocating to Pembrokeshire in the far south west. Both centres are ideally located to enjoy their respective birds and wildlife, with much to see in between too on a planned day exploring the Gower peninsula.

In Monmouthshire we visit extensive ancient woodlands, coastal wetlands, the uplands so typical of Wales and the nearby Black Mountains, which lie on the fringes of the Brecon Beacons National Park. From our centrally located accommodation, we look for moorland species such as Red Grouse and Wheatear and explore the unique ‘fridd’, a mixed scrubby and open bracken hillside habitat, where Cuckoo, Whinchat and Meadow Pipit may be found. Specialist woodland birds will be searched for, including Woodcock, Nightjar, Redstart, Wood Warbler, Pied Flycatcher and Firecrest. Along the coastal strip we visit the Severn-side RSPB reserve of Newport Wetlands, with its scarce breeding birds such as Bittern, Avocet, and Bearded Tit. On our transfer day we visit Gower on our way to Pembrokeshire. The Gower peninsula is a quite beautiful and distinctive landscape with special local birds such as Chough and Dartford Warbler. The many nature reserves will be looking at their best, with wild flowers showing well at this time of the year.

Scenic Pembrokeshire is always an exciting place to visit, especially as it is so remote. Most well-known for its famous seabird colonies on the offshore islands, we plan to visit three of these - Skomer, Grassholm and Ramsey. We land on Skomer and Ramsey, exploring these magical places on foot, both of which are

famed for their Puffin and Manx Shearwater numbers. Our visit may coincide with the beautiful haze of blue and pink as the Bluebells and Red Campion are in flower, providing a colourful backdrop to the sheer cliffs which are often packed with thousands of Guillemot, Razorbill and Kittiwake. While not landing, by taking a boat around Grassholm the glistening white of over 39,000 pairs of Gannet will be quite the spectacle – a certain highlight among our seabird experiences! Time will also be spent exploring the mainland wildlife hotspots, visiting lakes, beautiful coastal bays and estuaries, with stops at favoured nature reserves and, if time allows, notable historic sites. Number of centres: 2.

Combine with: For a full Wales experience this holiday can run back-to-back with our North Wales in Summer holiday.

NORTH WALES in SUMMER Anglesey, Bardsey and Snowdonia National Park.

SUN 9 JUNE – SUN 16 JUNE 2024 SAT 31 MAY – SAT 7 JUNE 2025 Prices: from £1995pp Single supplement: £245 Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) Barry Embling.

North Wales is rich in wildlife, and we explore by both land and sea on this exciting holiday, dividing our time between coastal locations and the famous Snowdonia National Park. Habitats are varied and we visit estuarine hotspots, coastal bays, beaches, freshwater lakes and the spectacular bird-rich islands of Anglesey and Bardsey. Inland lakes, fast flowing rivers, forest and mixed woodland, open moors and Snowdon Mountain itself offer different opportunities on this enjoyable tour.

Anglesey is a large island of great excitement and at South Stack Puffin, Black Guillemot and other seabirds are to the fore, with Chough, Raven and Peregrine overhead. Later, we visit an internationally important site for rare Roseate Tern.

Bardsey is a fascinating, bird-rich island noted for its Manx Shearwater colony. We plan to land on this beautiful island and explore by foot. We enjoy the Puffins, listen out for Chough and search the scrub and bushes for passerines and any late migrants. We work closely with the Observatory team to make the most of our visit.

REST OF THE UK

Conwy’s Great Orme has a growing reputation for good birding with a number of migrant and scarce birds recorded recently. We walk around the headland where Chough may be seen before checking the waders on the nearby estuary and pools for Curlew Sandpiper and Little Stint.

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We visit Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales, and may take the train to the summit for stunning views, Ring Ouzel, Wheatear, Raven and Peregrine. The mountain is also home to rare Alpine plants, including the aptly named Snowdon Lily. If we spend less time on the mountain, attractive wooded valleys with fast flowing streams hold Dipper, Ring Ouzel, Grey Wagtail, Redstart, Spotted Flycatcher, Tree Pipit, Common Sandpiper and more.

tel: 01479 821248

Picturesque Welsh Moors hold a substantial Black Grouse lek where we hope to see displaying birds. Breeding Red Grouse, Ring Ouzel, Whinchat, Skylark, Meadow Pipit, Stonechat and a few Twite are also present. A day at RSPB Ynys-Hir gives chances to see deciduous woodland specialists including Wood Warbler, Pied Flycatcher, Redstart, Cuckoo, Jay, Nuthatch, Marsh Tit and Lesser Redpoll. The holiday begins and ends at Bangor, where rail transfers will be available.

Number of centres: 1.

Combine with: For a full Wales experience this holiday can run back-to-back with our South Wales in Summer holiday.

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

WEST CORNWALL in AUTUMN for birders Exciting autumn migration and rarity hunting in a beautiful county!

FRI 27 SEPTEMBER – FRI 4 OCTOBER 2024 FRI 3 OCTOBER – FRI 10 OCTOBER 2025 Prices: from £1845pp Single supplement: £125 Max group size 7. Leader (2024) Toby Green.

West Cornwall is a birders' playground, with a strong reputation as one of the best British birding counties in autumn. The Penwith peninsula at the ‘end of the land’ is ideally placed as a filter for southbound migrants and rarities, and with beautiful valley habitats and rugged coastline, it’s one of the great places for birdwatchers to explore. October is one of the best times to visit and extensive knowledge of all the birding hot spots, plus some hidden gems will give us a great chance to enjoy migration over both land and sea. Our daily schedule will be flexible, planning days around local, up-to-date bird news and of course the weather. Based in the far west we shouldn’t need to travel much either, with great sites such as Porthgwarra, Cot Valley, Nanquidno, Hayle, Marazion and Drift nearby there’s great birding on our doorstep, and we plan to visit the Lizard Peninsula where Choughs famously first made their return to the county.

Species possibility is broad depending upon luck and the prevailing weather. Birds vary every year, but Africa-bound passerines including a variety of warblers, Redstart, Wheatear, Pied and Spotted Flycatcher should be encountered, along with Firecrest, Black Redstart and migrant finch, lark and pipit flocks. We might find our own Wryneck, Red-backed Shrike, Red-breasted Flycatcher or perhaps something even rarer from the east. Winds from the west might yield an American wader or something really 'mega', recent examples being Grey Catbird, Red-eyed Vireo, Hermit Thrush, Yellow-billed Cuckoo and Britain’s first Alder Flycatcher. Sea-watching can be excellent, and our boat trip into Mount's Bay will give great views and possibly cetaceans too. Exciting birding, relatively warm

weather and great coastal scenery in a massively under-watched part of the UK! Number of centres: 1.

Combine with: We have timed this holiday so it can be combined with our Isles of Scilly for birders trip for the ultimate south-west birding experience!

ISLES OF SCILLY for birders An exciting birding tour of the Isles of Scilly - visiting St Mary's, Bryher, Tresco, St Martin's and St Agnes!

SAT 5 OCTOBER – SAT 12 OCTOBER 2024 SAT 11 OCTOBER – SAT 18 OCTOBER 2025 Prices: from £1995pp Single supplement: £245 Max 14 clients. Leaders (2024) Toby Green & Martin Elliott.

Steeped in birding folklore the Isles of Scilly are one of the ‘must visit’ places in the UK. Shallow waters, golden sands and a climate often more akin to the Mediterranean, it’s a fabulous place to be when birds are on the move. The Scillies are in prime position to receive migrants heading south and also storm driven vagrants from all directions. Birders visiting the islands since the 70’s have been responsible for finding a number of ‘British firsts’ particularly those of Nearctic origin. We will be especially flexible and our daily activities will depend largely on up to date bird news. We will do our best to follow up on sightings as and when they happen but at the same time, we’ll select a different island to explore daily so as to see as much of the Scillies as possible during your holiday. Our guides are experienced here and will choose the best time to visit St Mary’s, St Agnes, Tresco, St Martin’s and Bryher, in order to make the most of the weather and bird news on any given day.

The birdwatching can be fantastic and with a roll call of such ‘megas’ from previous Octobers including Blyth’s Pipit, Dusky Thrush, Caspian Stonechat, Pallid Swift, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Red-flanked Bluetail, multiple Red Eyed Vireos, Blackburnian Warbler, Eastern Yellow Wagtail, Sora, American Herring Gull, Caspian Tern plus Britain’s second Pale-legged/Sakhalin Leaf Warbler we’ll be hoping for something special on our next trip. Prevailing weather dictates which rare/scarce birds arrive, no one year is the same. Solitary Sandpiper, Creamcoloured Courser, Snowy Owl, Wryneck, Little Bunting, Richard’s, Red-throated, Olive-backed and Buff-bellied Pipit, Yellow-browed, Blackpoll, Barred and Melodious Warbler are among the regularly recorded scarcities.

REST OF THE UK

General birding will expect us to encounter up to 100 species of a wide variety from seabirds, to migrating waders, wildfowl and gulls. We’ll see plenty of passerines and land-birds on their way south plus regular scarcities. It’s a holiday where truly anything is possible! Number of centres: 1.

Combine with: West Cornwall in Autumn for birders.

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Twitter: @heatherleabirds

Instagram: @heatherleabirds

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LANCASHIRE and THE WIRRAL Spectacular birding in late autumn/early winter.

MON 21 OCTOBER – SUN 27 OCTOBER 2024 MON 20 OCTOBER – SUN 26 OCTOBER 2025 Prices: from £1795pp Single supplement: £245 Max 14 clients. Leader (2024) Holly Page.

Joined by another from our team with more than 7 clients.

Autumn sees a fascinating and often spectacular migration of wintering birds to the wetlands and grasslands of north-west England. Wildfowl and waders will be moving around and passing through as we visit Leighton Moss, Morecambe Bay, the Ribble Estuary, Martin Mere and The Wirral peninsula. The variety and sheer numbers of waders and wildfowl will give us constantly changing birdlife at the larger reserves, with plenty of opportunity for grey winter-plumage wader identification.

Whooper Swan, Ruff, Black- and Bar-tailed Godwit, Great and Little Egret, Pinkfooted and Greylag Goose, Gadwall, Pintail, flocks of Wigeon and Teal, and maybe an occasional rarity such as American Wigeon graze on the saltmarshes, and Red-breasted Merganser and Eider may be drifting offshore. Water Rail, Bittern and Bearded Tit are also found. Raptors include both Barn and Shorteared Owl, Peregrine, Merlin and both Marsh and Hen Harrier, and a range of wintering woodland passerines include Marsh Tit, Nuthatch, Tree Sparrow, Lesser Redpoll and Siskin. Fieldfare and Redwing will be exploiting winter berry crops, and we may find Waxwing or other Scandinavian migrants including Brambling, Twite, Cetti’s Warbler and Kingfisher in exposed stretches or marginal wetland, and we may encounter Red Deer, Roe Deer and Otter too.

You will visit reserves managed by RSPB, WWT and Lancashire Wildlife Trust, and all are supported by our visits, as your entry fee is included if you are not already a member.

This is a two-centre holiday. Our first base is located at a lovely hotel on The Wirral, with views over the Dee estuary to North Wales. Both Marsh and Hen Harrier can be seen from the hotel balcony and we are within easy reach of RSPB Burton Mere Wetlands and the northern coast of The Wirral.

In Lancashire we stay in a comfortable hotel just south of Lancaster, offering wonderful accommodation and excellent food inspired by traditional Lancashire recipes. This quiet backwater is a great base to head north or south to Lancashire's nature reserves. We are directly on the towpath of Lancaster Canal’s Glasson

Branch, and within easy walking distance of the River Conder, a small river which winds its way towards the mouth of the much larger River Lune, a few hundred yards away from our hotel. Greenshank, Shelduck and a range of other ducks and waders change places daily here, previous rarities on this trip include Lesser Yellowlegs, Long-billed Dowitcher and Glossy Ibis!

A relaxing and rewarding break as autumn turns to winter, featuring many of the migrant and resident birds which characterise this part of the UK. Number of centres: 2.

SOLWAY FIRTH A Winter wildfowl spectacular on the Solway Coast.

SAT 2 NOVEMBER – THURS 7 NOVEMBER 2024 SAT 8 NOVEMBER – THURS 13 NOVEMBER 2025 Prices: from £1495pp Single supplement: £150 Max 7 clients. Leader (2024) James Champion.

A vast, internationally important area for wildfowl, Solway Firth offers great birding. Caerlaverock is alive with tens of thousands of geese. We scour flocks of Barnacle Goose for rarities including Red-breasted, Richardson's Cackling and Snow Goose, or perhaps a Lesser White-fronted. At the daily feed, the spectacle of wild Whooper Swan is something to both see and hear!

RSPB Mersehead holds many Barnacle Goose and wintering ducks including Pintail, and feeders have Reed Bunting, Yellowhammer and Tree Sparrow. We have to be lucky to connect with large Starling murmurations, though we hope to see them as the light fades, and Merlin, Sparrowhawk, Hen Harrier and Peregrine are regular.

REST OF THE UK

Westward at Loch Ryan we seek flocks of Scaup, Common Scoter and Eider, with Long-tailed Duck, Black Guillemot, Red-breasted Merganser, plus wintering divers and grebes. Waders include Purple Sandpiper, Turnstone, Knot, Dunlin, Bar-tailed Godwit and Ringed Plover, and Pale-bellied Brent Geese winter in small numbers.

We close beside a large area of rough grassland, where Hen Harrier, Merlin and the odd Short-eared Owl roost.

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The Ken-Dee Marshes host Greenland White-fronted and Greylag Geese. Later at the local Red Kite feeding station, expect a very close first-hand experience of these gregarious birds. In the Galloway hills the major prize is locally scarce Golden Eagle, and Merlin, Peregrine, Siskin, Dipper, Grey Wagtail, Redwing, Fieldfare and Common Crossbill are found. tel: 01479 821248

Five nights in a very comfortable country house hotel and the services of your Heatherlea guide make this a perfect late-autumn break. Number of centres: 1.

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

New

NEW! WILD NORTHERN IRELAND The Giant's Causeway & wildlife of Rathlin Island - a natural history tour of Northern Ireland.

for 2

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SAT 3 MAY– SAT 10 MAY 2025

Price: from £2495pp Single Supplement: £250 Max 12 clients. Leader Andy Jones, joined by one from the Heatherlea team with more than 7 clients..

This is a fabulous new tour, introducing the lesser-known wildlife of Northern Ireland. Timing our visit with the arrival of spring migrants, we look for wildfowl, waders and terns at the lakes of Fermanagh, Strangford Lough and the UK’s largest lake of Lough Neagh. We also explore some fabulous under-watched sites with chances of Corncrake, fabulous views of breeding seabirds and Irish (Mountain) Hare on a day trip to Rathlin Island and Ring Ouzel, other moorland birds and rare alpine plants in the mountains of Mourne. No visit to Northern Ireland would be complete without a visit to the world-famous basalt columns at the Giant’s Causeway in Co. Antrim, and we take in other geological and scenic highlights on this new and exciting destination for Heatherlea! Number of centres: 2.

NEW! NORTH WALES in Autumn Early autumn birding on the wild West Coast of Wales.

SAT 27 SEPTEMBER - SAT 5 OCTOBER 2025

Price: from £2095pp Single Supplement: £275 Max 12 clients. Leader/s from the Heatherlea team.

Wales is a great place for birdwatchers, yet with a so many headlands, picturesque valleys, tidal estuaries and wetland sites, it can often feel under-watched. On this new, two centre tour we explore the entire west coast and at this exciting time of year, a largely flexible itinerary offers vast birding potential. On Anglesey, Chough are likely around the cliffs and Black Guillemot in the harbours and there are some great wetland reserves available, on this easy to visit island. We spend time looking for migrant passerines around the Llyn, Marloes and Dale Peninsula’s, while Strumble Head is one of several classic sea-watching locations on the West Coast. In the right conditions all four skuas, Leach’s and Storm Petrel while rarer congeners may pass with the masses of post breeding Manx Shearwater. Conwy’s Great Orme has a growing reputation for good birding with scarce birds including Dotterel, Wryneck and Lapland Bunting recorded in recent autumns. The nearby RSPB reserve and a selection of sites close to Bangor offer great potential for waders, gulls and terns and it is well worth checking for scarcer species such as Spotted Redshank, Curlew Sandpiper or Little Stint, Mediterranean Gull or vagrants of Nearctic origin. Islands are another major part of the western coastline especially when it comes to birds, and we plan to visit at least one during this tour. In the north, Bardsey Island off the Llyn Peninsula has a good range of habitats and working with the team at the Bird Observatory is a great place to visit for the day. It may also be possible to get to Skomer, Skokholm or Ramsey should there be any birds of interest, as was very much the case in autumn 2023 after an incredible arrival of Nearctic passerines across the West Wales islands! Number of centres: 2.

NEW! NORTHUMBERLAND in Winter A winter wildfowl and wader spectacular on the North East Coast!

SAT 1 NOVEMBER – FRIDAY 7 NOVEMBER 2025

Price: from £1995pp Single Supplement: £345 Max 12 clients. Leader/s from the Heatherlea team.

Facebook: heatherleabirdwatching

Twitter: @heatherleabirds

REST OF THE UK

Northumberland has some of the UK’s premier winter wildfowl and wader sites.

Beautiful sweeping coastal bays play host to hundreds of waders such as Sanderling, Knot and Purple Sandpiper. Offshore rafts of Eider, Long-tailed Duck and at least two species of Scoter can be found. Winter thrushes should be present in good numbers and there is a good chance of rarities such as Waxwings. We will visit reserves such as RSPB Saltholme, Cresswell Pond, Druridge Bay, Hauxley and, if weather and tide allows, the island of Lindisfarne.

The scenery alone in Northumberland is spectacular but pair this with the fabulous birdlife and this promises to be a special break. Number of centres: 1.

Instagram: @heatherleabirds

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OVERSEAS with HEATHERLEA

Do it ‘The Heatherlea Way’!

For over two decades Heatherlea has applied the same formula that makes our Scottish holidays so popular to our overseas departures, creating wonderful experiences in more and more exotic destinations! All itineraries are planned carefully around the best wildlife opportunities, and our relaxed, informal holidays are great fun.

Whether we are searching for Bee-eaters in Spain, Ibisbill in The Himalayas, Antbirds in South America, Polar Bears in the Arctic or Cheetah in Africa, every holiday is carefully planned to give you a memorable wildlife adventure, all part of ‘The Heatherlea Way’. This gives you the best available content, in comfort, and with excellent support. Our overseas holidays are created with care to offer great birding and wildlife, led by capable guides who really look after you. Most are led by one of our regular Heatherlea guides travelling from the UK, although some are based in the destination country, and with more than seven guests on a trip, you will usually have two guides. Every holiday is run ‘The Heatherlea Way’, offering rewarding and exciting days in the field, and good quality accommodation and meals, with a real flavour of the country we are visiting. Most holidays include at least an element of local guiding, and we always seek to include the personal touches that make all the difference.

Our less-intensive approach to holidays is ideal for those who want to relax whilst enjoying excellent wildlife watching, and wherever possible we organise early or late activities on an optional basis. We take sensible breaks when in very hot places and regular comfort stops on every holiday. It is important to us wherever possible that everyone in the party sees the bird or animal, and we often seek to get better views for all rather than chase the next ‘tick’.

OVERSEAS

On ‘long-haul’ holidays, it is particularly important to choose an operator with good back-up services. With Heatherlea, hotels, meals and activities are usually booked directly in the destination country, helping to guarantee smooth running, and we employ hand-picked and very experienced local ground agents, who offer a warm welcome, and who give invaluable advantages which will enhance your holiday, particularly when we need to find difficult-to-see wildlife. We have developed a fantastic team throughout the world, with the emphasis firmly on personal attention. To further enhance the experience, we often include extras which others might expect you to pay yourself - Departure Taxes, tips to hotels, a night walk, or a boat safari through prime habitat. The cost of these things can be significant, so if comparing, take them into account!

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tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

WHY CHOOSE HEATHERLEA OVERSEAS? The most important part of any wildlife holiday is the experience for you, our valued customer. Heatherlea invest in many things to help you get the best: 4 Heatherlea is your complete wildlife holiday provider, and our team can organise all your pre-flight and other travel needs, so you book the right services, at the best price. See next page for details!

4 We have been organising birding and wildlife holidays for 34 seasons and have a highly experienced and capable office team. We also offer a telephone and email service outside normal office hours.

4 A ‘Final Information Pack’ will be issued prior to travel, containing flight tickets, Guide contact details, airport hotels, accommodation in the destination country including relevant websites, plus health and other useful information you might need whilst abroad. * All elements of our holidays are sold under our own licence, ATOL 6113. Heatherlea also hold full Tour Operator Insurance for your added protection. Book holiday extensions through us, and your ATOL protection is extended even further.

4 Many holidays include content which might not seem important before you book but will make a difference when you arrive – examples include an opportunity to photograph lekking Ruff in Finland, taverna meals in Greece, internal flights in Peru, India and Nepal, and many more.

4 A ‘feel’ of the country we are visiting is an important part of our holidays. This may mean wine-tasting in Chile, or tea at a Saharan community in Morocco. We don’t lose birding time, just offer a little extra so you can enjoy a rounded holiday experience.

4 Often our holidays include things which others might invite you to pay yourself, for instance Departure Taxes and tips to hotels. Please check when comparing!

4 Heatherlea overseas holidays have a maximum of 12 clients per trip, putting the emphasis on personal service, and helping you get the best possible experience.

4 Low initial deposit secures your holiday for most destinations.

HEATHERLEA GIVES YOU MORE!

OVERSEAS

4 If you would like more information before you decide, you can download a copy of the ‘TRIP REPORT’ which includes the bird list and species seen on the previous year’s departure. ‘TRIP REPORTS’ can be downloaded from our website – just visit the holiday page at www.heatherlea.co.uk, and help yourself, or ring us here in the office and we will post a printed copy to you. For further information and booking details contact us on 01479 821248 or email .

4 A copy of the ‘Tour Information Pack’ will be issued when you book, including information to help prepare for your holiday. Sections headed ‘Flights’, ‘Entry requirements’, ‘Field Clothing’ and ‘Walking’ will help you to plan – you will be very well informed!

Facebook: heatherleabirdwatching

Twitter: @heatherleabirds

Instagram: @heatherleabirds

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THE HEATHERLEA PRE-FLIGHT SERVICE

ENJOY A PRE-FLIGHT AIRPORT HOTEL and LOUNGE! Virtually all 2024 & 2025 Heatherlea overseas holidays which include flights also include an overnight airport hotel and lounge before you fly, organised by Heatherlea as part of our pre-flight service. We will contact you as your holiday approaches to confirm details and any other services you might require. To benefit, book with Heatherlea!

PRE-FLIGHT HOTEL Heatherlea selects your airport hotel from our approved shortlist.

All offer good en-suite accommodation, evening meals and readily available car parking and transfers to the terminal.

PRE-FLIGHT VIP AIRPORT LOUNGE We want your holiday to start early - unwind before you fly! A busy airport terminal is hardly the ideal place to relax, and by the time you've bought food, drinks, newspapers and a magazine to pass the time, can prove expensive too. Why not prefer the comfort of an airport lounge, where you can relax for up to three hours before your flight? We adjust your final invoice downwards if you don’t require the pre-flight hotel, or if an airport lounge is unavailable.

Most of our lounges offer ample free drinks and snacks, magazines and newspapers, wifi, TV and comfortable seating amid quiet surroundings, in a secluded getaway from the crowded terminal. If travelling on your flight, your Heatherlea guide will be there for an optional chat after everyone has checked in, and you can get to know your fellow travellers or just sink into an armchair – the choice and comfort are yours! We will confirm arrangements and include any necessary admission tickets in your ‘Final Information Pack’. If you've never used an airport lounge before, you don't know what you're missing – just don’t get too comfortable and forget to catch your flight!

QUALITY ASSURANCE All elements of our package holidays are sold under licence (ATOL 6113). Our business partners include British Airways, Delta Airlines, Premier Inn and Hilton Hotels. We have a highly experienced and capable team, and our specialist knowledge will help you get exactly the right services, at the best available price. We can arrange everything you need with just one call, so to save time and money choose Heatherlea, your complete wildlife holiday provider.

OVERSEAS

With Heatherlea, the Field Guide is FREE!

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Our special Pre-flight Service offers you more, and for most holidays in the ‘Rest of the World’ section of this Brochure, the leading bird book relevant to the holiday is included in your holiday price. We include one copy with each room booked. With some titles costing around £50, this is another benefit from Heatherlea which saves you money!

tel: 01479 821248

Don’t forget, when comparing Heatherlea with others; 4

Pre-flight airport hotel INCLUDED

4

Pre-flight VIP lounge entry INCLUDED

4

Car parking, upgrades, in-flight special diets ORGANISED AT NO EXTRA CHARGE

4

Departure tax (several long-haul destinations) INCLUDED

4

Birding Field Guide (destinations not covered by Collins) INCLUDED

4

A ‘feel’ of the country and other benefits INCLUDED.

4

Max 12 clients on most holidays.

The list goes on!

HOLIDAY PLANNING WITH HEATHERLEA We know our clients like to plan their holidays ahead but have concerns about committing to tours financially so far in advance. With Heatherlea you can note your interest and reserve tours over 12 months away without obligation. Just email or phone us with the departure you are interested in, and we will provisionally reserve your place(s). We will keep in touch, so you are fully up to date with any new developments relating to your chosen tours. Usually no payment is required until one year before each tour, giving great flexibility. email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

From ABERDEEN to the ARCTIC A unique combination of Polar Bear, Whales, Pack Ice and British Birding!

TUES 28 MAY – THURS 6 JUNE 2024 SAT 31 MAY – MON 9 JUNE 2025 Prices from: £3095pp (based on sharing a quad cabin) Leader: Ian Ford.

An unforgettable adventure visiting some of the most remote and inaccessible northern locations of the North Atlantic. Amidst awe-inspiring scenic landscapes, we enjoy multiple 'bucket-list' wildlife experiences combining spring migrants on Fair Isle with cetaceans and seabirds of the north Atlantic Ocean and the thrill of Polar Bears, Walrus and Arctic birding on Svalbard. Our journey begins in Aberdeen, and we can offer extremely good value on cabins with the option to extend your tour with an extra day/night on Svalbard for land-based wildlife watching. An Arctic adventure for lovers of all wildlife, this is a truly unique and rewarding holiday!

AZORES

ARMENIA

A lovely blend of birds, whales, plants and geology amidst incredible coastal scenery.

THURS 19 SEPTEMBER – THURS 26 SEPTEMBER 2024 THURS 18 SEPTEMBER – THURS 25 SEPTEMBER 2025

Relaxed Eastern European birding in a quiet, un-spoilt environment.

SAT 4 MAY – WED 15 MAY 2024

Prices from: £3195pp Single Supplement: £230

Prices from: £2995pp

Over 350 birds have been recorded in Armenia, 200 of which are breeding, and on this holiday, we target a number of Eastern European specialities.

Among those we aim to see are White-headed Duck, Caucasian Black Grouse, Caspian Snowcock, Eastern Imperial Eagle, Lammergeier, Levant Sparrowhawk, Armenian Gull, Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, Radde’s and Alpine Accentor, White-throated Robin, Finsch’s and Red-tailed Wheatear, Semicollared Flycatcher, Western and Eastern Rock Nuthatch, Caucasian Mountain Chiffchaff, Green Warbler, White-winged Snowfinch, Crimsonwinged Finch, Grey-necked Bunting and many more. A comprehensive tour of key habitats and locations with around 180 species likely, ranging from Armenian specialities to northbound migrants – a fantastic tour full of variety!

Single Supplement: £380 Max. 12 clients. Leader Andy Jones.

A mild climate and warm surrounding seas with steep Atlantic shelves between the islands make the Azores one of the best places in the world for whale and dolphin watching. We stay on three islands – Sao Miguel, Pico and Faial with two sea trips planned to watch cetaceans. We hope to see Sperm and Fin Whale, ‘beaked’ Whales as well as several species of dolphin. Likely seabirds include Bulwer’s Petrel and Cory’s Shearwater, while other marine life can include flying fish, turtles and sharks. On dry land, endemic Azores Bullfinch together with island races of Buzzard, Chaffinch and Goldcrest are key targets, and with over 60 endemic plants, this is the ideal holiday for the allround naturalist.

BULGARIA in Autumn

BULGARIA & NORTHERN GREECE

Spectacular migration along the Black Sea coast!

SAT 6 SEPTEMBER – SAT 13 SEPTEMBER 2025 Prices from: £2395pp Single supplement: £170 Max. 12 clients. Leader: One from the Heatherlea team plus experienced local guide.

Great spring birding from the Bulgarian Mountains to Lake Kerkini in Greece.

SAT 11 MAY – MON 20 MAY 2024 SUN 11 MAY – TUES 20 MAY 2025 Prices from: £2495pp Single Supplement: £175 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Toby Green plus experienced local guide.

An exciting holiday timed to connect with the spectacular annual migration of thousands of raptors, pelicans, storks and passerines along the Black Sea flyway known as the Via Pontica.

Habitat variety makes Bulgaria one of Europe’s richest birding countries, a high bird-list likely as we explore the hills, forests, interior wetlands and the famous Black Sea coast. Raptor migration can be especially impressive with large numbers of Honey Buzzard, Short-toed, Booted and Lesser Spotted Eagle, Black Kite, Montagu’s Harrier, Red-footed Falcon and Levant Sparrowhawk on the move. Dalmatian and White Pelican are likely, as are passage waders and during ‘falls’ the bushes and farmland can be full of warblers, chats, shrikes, larks, pipits, wagtails, buntings and more! A fabulous holiday for beginners and experts alike.

A fabulous ten-day birding tour combining the highest mountains of Southwestern Bulgaria and the famous wetlands of Northern Greece. Between 180 - 200 species are possible, from scarce residents, passage migrants and hard-to-see eastern species. Our birding routine varies daily, as we aim to see most European woodpecker species, plus Hazel Grouse, Pygmy Owl, Spotted Nutcracker, Alpine Chough and Wallcreeper in the mountains.

Northern Greece is famous for its coastal lagoons and big lakes, hosting large numbers of Dalmatian and White Pelican, Pygmy Cormorant, Greater Flamingo and others. The strong Mediterranean influence benefits species such as Great Spotted Cuckoo, Olive-tree and Eastern Orphean Warbler, Masked Shrike, Western Rock Nuthatch and plenty more.

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Max. 12 clients. Leader Jozef Leestmans plus experienced local guide.

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CAMARGUE Wonderful early spring birding in the south of France.

SAT 9 MARCH – SAT 16 MARCH 2024 SAT 8 MARCH – SAT 15 MARCH 2025

Prices from: £2195pp Single Supplement: £225 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) James Champion.

Camargue is a great destination at this time of year, combining winter specialities with the forerunners of spring migration. Wallcreeper is one of our top targets, and we visit known hotspots to search for this unique and beautiful bird. In similar terrain, we look for Alpine Accentor, Blue Rock Thrush, Eagle Owl, Citril Finch, Black Woodpecker and Bonelli’s Eagle.

Out on the plains Little Bustard and Pin-tailed Sandgrouse gather in winter flocks, while on the extensive marshes Greater Flamingo may be seen. Other birds might include Blacknecked Grebe, Slender-billed Gull, Crag Martin, Southern Grey Shrike, Penduline Tit, Cirl and Rock Bunting - a tremendous start to your overseas birding year!

CANARIES TENERIFE, LA GOMERA & FUERTEVENTURA A comprehensive tour of the speciality birds.

SAT 1 MARCH – SAT 8 MARCH 2025 Prices from: £2695pp Single Supplement: £390 Max. 12 clients. Leader/s from the Heatherlea team.

Visiting three key islands, we search for a range of endemics, interesting subspecies, desert specialities and eastern migrants – all on the same tour! On Tenerife, local endemics include Tenerife Blue Chaffinch, Bolle’s and Laurel Pigeon, Canary Islands Chiffchaff plus several endemic sub-species. A day trip to La Gomera offers another chance for Laurel Forest specialities, while the ferry crossing enables us to watch for Cory’s and Manx Shearwater and Short-finned Pilot Whale. Fuerteventura is a small piece of the Sahara in the sea, where Fuerteventura Chat is an endemic target. Also likely are Houbara Bustard, Cream-coloured Courser, Black-bellied Sandgrouse, Egyptian Vulture, Berthelot’s Pipit, Trumpeter Finch, ultramarinus Blue Tit alongside wintering eastern vagrants.

CROATIA A unique spring birding tour in the Balkans.

SAT 6 APRIL – SAT 13 APRIL 2024 Prices from: £2995pp Single Supplement: £200 Max. 7 clients. Leader Gerard Gorman.

This relaxed tour, featuring a highly original itinerary, visits three scenic protected areas, a rarely-birded offshore island and the country's largest natural freshwater wetland. Key birds include Pygmy Cormorant, Ferruginous Duck, Rock Partridge, Sombre Tit, Western Rock Nuthatch, Alpine Chough, Scops Owl as well as a host of herons, egrets, waders, terns, raptors, woodpeckers and passerines. While great birding is the priority, the Balkans also support a wide variety of reptiles, spectacular butterflies (some of them endemic) and dragonflies. Attractive scenery and a wealth of botanical interest including rare orchids, ensure there is something for everyone in under-watched Croatia.

CYPRUS Exciting Mediterranean birding for Cypriot endemics and migrants.

FRI 5 APRIL – FRI 12 APRIL 2024 FRI 4 APRIL – FRI 11 APRIL 2025 Prices from: £2095pp Single Supplement: £290 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Chris Rodger.

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A fabulous birding destination, and this tour offers a great blend of sought-after residents (including endemics) with spring migration. Over 360 species have been recorded in Cyprus, and staying in just one centre, we are well positioned to be flexible and visit hotspots on the west and south coast as well as the Troodos Mountain interior. Cyprus Scops Owl, Cyprus Wheatear and Cyrus Warbler are our endemic targets, and other sought-after birds include Black Francolin, Pallid Harrier, Eastern Bonelli’s, Eastern Olivaceous, and Rüppell’s Warbler, Semi-collared Flycatcher, Cretzschmar’s Bunting and Masked Shrike. Rarities can often be recorded too with Demoiselle Crane, Finsch’s and Hooded Wheatear in recent springs, while a Diederik Cuckoo was a real highlight for our 2023 group!

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CZECH REPUBLIC – SOUTH MORAVIA A unique Wallcreeper and Woodpecker short break!

THURS 27 FEBRUARY – SUN 2 MARCH 2025 Prices from: £1495pp Single Supplement: £125 Max. 7 clients. Leader Gerard Gorman.

An exciting short holiday to an underexplored region of Central Europe, ideal for busy birders who want to see some key European birds as winter turns to spring. Blessed with remarkably diverse habitats, all offer great birding potential, and all can be accessed in a short drive from our base.

Wallcreeper is a key target, a special bird which may be found at lower elevations in late winter. We have good chances to see woodpeckers with Black, Grey-headed, Middle Spotted and Syrian the priority of the seven species present. A variety of raptors, wildfowl and passerines are also likely, while a dusk encounter with Eagle Owl and a spectacular Long-eared Owl roost add to the excitement on this wonderful short break!

ESTONIA IN SPRING A Baltic Birding Bonanza, superb Eastern breeding birds and thousands of northbound migrants!

SUN 5 MAY – SUN 12 MAY 2024 MON 12 MAY – MON 19 MAY 2025 Prices from: £2195pp Single Supplement: £195 Max. 12 clients. Leader Uku Paal.

More than 200 species breed in Estonia, which together with a heavy spring passage make the country one of Europe’s best birding destinations. The smallest and least populated of the Baltic states, roughly 10% of Estonia is legally protected for conservation reasons. Typified by coastal, wetland and forest habitats, we stay at three different locations giving us the best chances of finding specialities. Lekking Great Snipe will be a highlight and if lucky we will encounter Ural, Pygmy and Tengmalm’s Owl at dusk. Other likely birds include Lesser and Greater Spotted Eagle, Hazel Grouse, White-backed Woodpecker, Nutcracker, Citrine Wagtail, Thrush Nightingale, River Warbler, Common Rosefinch and many more.

NEW! ESTONIA in AUTUMN Migration in an Eastern European hotspot!

SAT 21 SEPTEMBER – SAT 28 SEPTEMBER 2024 Prices from: £2195pp Single Supplement: £195 Max. 12 clients. Leader Uku Paal.

At the end of their short summer, millions of Scandinavian birds begin their southward journeys and Estonia is one of the best places to observe their migration. Numbers peak at the end of September and the sight of thousands of Common Crane, geese and swans will be a real highlight. We also make a special visit to the Kabli Bird Observatory, an important site near the Latvian border for migrant passerines and forest birds. A stay on Saaremaa Island offers great sea-watching and we have several chances of Ural, Pygmy and Tengmalm’s Owl on night drives. A great new tour, featuring Eastern European birdlife in both variety and density.

NEW! ESTONIA in EARLY SPRING

A novel two-centred short holiday focusing on sea duck on the Baltic coast, and key species on the mainland. We visit Saaremaa Island, the largest of the Estonian islands and one of the most reliable places in Europe to see Steller's Eider. Other sea-duck, plus divers, grebes, auks, waders and gulls are likely as we explore the coast, while on mainland Estonia, we look for Capercaillie and Hazel Grouse. A good time of year for woodpeckers, Ural and Pygmy Owl are possible and in open areas, skeins of Tundra Bean and Taiga Bean Geese, plus Common Crane, Rough-legged Buzzard, White-tailed Eagle and a selection of passerines are all likely.

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Seabirds including Steller’s Eider and key woodland species.

TUES 1 APRIL – SUN 6 APRIL 2025 Prices from: £1795pp Single Supplement: £150 Max. 12 clients. Leader Uku Paal.

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FINLAND - LATE SPRING BIRDING Great birding with chances of all the northern specials!

WED 15 MAY – TUES 21 MAY 2024 WED 21 MAY – TUES 27 MAY 2025 Prices from: £3595pp Single supplement: £300 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Mark Warren, joined by experienced local guides.

A rewarding holiday targeting all the key bird species of Finland. With so much on offer there will be lots of highlights, none more so than the owls, with Great Grey, Ural, Hawk, European Eagle, Tengmalm’s, Long-eared and Short-eared and Pygmy all possible. We also enjoy Ruff at their lek, raptors including Pallid Harrier and night singers including Thrush Nightingale and Blyth’s Reed Warbler.

Northern forest specialities such as Hazel and Willow Grouse, Three-toed Woodpecker, Siberian Jay, Siberian Tit and Pine Grosbeak are likely, though the real draw is the list of eastern and northern species including Red-flanked Bluetail, Greenish and Blyth’s Reed Warbler, Little and Rustic Bunting.

NEW! FINLAND & NORWAY in Winter Winter specialities at Europe’s northern limit.

WED 20 MARCH – MON 25 MARCH 2024 FRI 14 MARCH – WED 19 MARCH 2025 Prices from: £2895pp Single supplement: £185 Max. 12 clients. Leader: experienced local guides.

Finnish Lapland and Norway offer a unique environment for birding, and in late winter, a number of Arctic specialities including King and Steller’s Eider can be easier to see here than anywhere else. As winter merges into spring, seabirds return to their clifftop breeding colonies on Hornøya Island, Brünnich’s Guillemot and Puffin both featuring. Other species we are likely to see are Hawk Owl, Gyrfalcon, White-tailed Eagle, Glaucous and Iceland Gull, Purple Sandpiper, Siberian Jay, Siberian Tit, Arctic Redpoll and Pine Grosbeak. There is also a chance of encountering the Aurora Borealis too on this lovely adventure to the far north.

FINNISH LAPLAND & NORTHERN NORWAY Scandinavian spring birding in the land of the midnight sun.

FRI 16 MAY – WED 21 MAY 2025 Prices from: £3195pp Single supplement: £240 Max. 12 clients. Leader: One from the Heatherlea team joined by experienced local guides.

Can be combined with Finland in Late Spring. Please contact us for details.

Life within the Arctic Circle will always be of interest to explorers and wildlife enthusiasts alike, and we divide our time between Finnish Lapland and the Varanger Peninsula, the latter situated some 400km inside the Arctic Circle. We seek speciality northern birds such as Gyrfalcon, White-billed Diver, Brünnich’s Guillemot on a boat trip to Hornøya Island, plus Siberian Jay, Siberian Tit, Pine Grosbeak and any available owls.

Other key birds of the wildlife-rich Varanger Fjord region may include Long-tailed Skua, Golden Eagle, Rock Ptarmigan and Dotterel. Breath-taking birding in a magical northern landscape!

FINLAND – BEARS & WOLVERINES A great opportunity to see and photograph some of Europe's rarest mammals.

TUES 27 MAY – SUN 1 JUNE 2025 Prices from: £3395pp Single supplement: £240 Max. 12 clients. Leader: experienced local guides.

Can be combined with Finland in Late Spring. Contact us for details!

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The Brown Bear is the largest predator in Europe, with males reaching up to 300 kilos in weight, while the Wolverine is a solitary and rare animal, and in Europe they are found only in northern Finland (where there are 270 - 300 animals), Sweden, Norway and Russia. This unique holiday offers an unforgettable opportunity to see both. Spending four nights in specially designed overnight hides provides unparalleled photographic opportunities. Entering in the late-afternoon and emerging the next morning we have excellent chances, while Wolf and Lynx have also been seen and daytime birds may include Capercaillie, Black-throated Diver, Siberian Jay, Waxwing and others.

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GEORGIA Eastern European breeding birds and migrants.

SAT 20 APRIL – MON 29 APRIL 2024 MON 21 APRIL – WED 30 APRIL 2025 Prices from: £3195pp Single supplement: £195 Max. 10 clients. Leader: One from the Heatherlea team joined by experienced local guides.

Lying on the Eastern Black Sea coast, between Turkey and Russia, Georgia is one of the fastest growing birding destinations in Europe. Birding along the Southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus Mountains, avian highlights include endemic Caucasian Snowcock, near-endemic Caucasian Black Grouse, Eastern Imperial Eagle, Wallcreeper, Alpine Accentor, Mountain Chiffchaff, Güldenstädt’s Redstart, Red-fronted Serin and Great Rosefinch. At lower altitudes amidst the forests and wetlands we aim to see are Dalmatian Pelican, Pygmy Cormorant, Little Crake, Black Francolin, Krüper’s Nuthatch, Green Warbler, Semi-collared Flycatcher and many more as we explore this country of exceptional beauty.

HUNGARY in AUTUMN Spectacular Crane migration and the best of Autumn birding in Eastern Europe.

THURS 2 OCTOBER – THURS 9 OCTOBER 2025 Prices from: £2295pp Single supplement: £210 Max. 7 clients. Leader Gerard Gorman.

Hungary is famed for its spectacular autumn Common Crane migration, 70,000 of these elegant birds congregating within the Hortobágy National Park to feed up before continuing south. On this three-centre holiday, we also look for special resident birds including Great Bustard, Saker Falcon, Eastern Imperial Eagle and eight species of woodpecker. Another highlight will be a visit to a Long-eared Owl roost in a remote village and we also hope to see flocks of Russian White-fronted Goose, Stone Curlew, Penduline Tit, Short-toed Treecreeper, Serin, Rock Bunting and plenty more. A tremendous autumn feast of birds!

NEW! HUNGARY - WINTER SHORT BREAK A four-day break timed to see key residents and winter migrants.

THURS 21 NOVEMBER – SUN 24 NOVEMBER 2024 Prices from: £1595pp Single supplement: £125 Max. 7 clients. Leader Gerard Gorman.

A new early-winter tour taking us to the quaint historic town of Tata, at the heart of an internationally important passage and wintering area for wildfowl. Tour highlights will be thousands of Russian White-fronted Goose, plus ‘Eastern’ Greylag, Tundra and Taiga Bean Goose and maybe rarer Red-breasted and Lesser White-fronted Goose too. With very few leaves on the trees, this is also a great tour to try and see woodpeckers and Black, Grey-headed, Green, Middle Spotted, Lesser Spotted, Great Spotted and Syrian Woodpecker are all likely. Other birds should include Eastern Imperial Eagle, Rough-legged Buzzard, Pygmy Cormorant, Great Grey Shrike, Penduline Tit plus Long-eared Owl at a roost site. A lovely short birding holiday to suit most Heatherlea birders!

WINTER ICELAND – ORCAS, EAGLES and AURORAS

Based in southern Iceland, this is a fabulous long, winter weekend to the land of fire and ice. In a relaxed setting amidst beautiful volcanic and snowy surroundings, we look for Gyrfalcon, Harlequin Duck, Barrow’s Goldeneye, White-tailed Eagle, Ptarmigan, Glaucous and Iceland Gull with a chance of Brünnich’s Guillemot, Little Auk and more. With a boat trip planned, we have good chances of an Orca sighting, plus we hope to see the awe-inspiring aurora borealis, or northern lights - an experience never to be forgotten! Glaciers, geysers, volcanoes, lava fields and dramatic waterfalls all add to the experience on this awe-inspiring birding and geological adventure!

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A short break featuring birds, marine mammals, geology and the Aurora Borealis.

THURS 27 FEBRUARY – SUN 2 MARCH 2025 Prices: £2295pp Single Supplement: £160 Max. 12 clients. Leader Andy Jones.

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ICELAND in SUMMER Birds, cetaceans and geology – ‘Complete Iceland’!

MON 8 JULY – MON 15 JULY 2024 MON 14 JULY – MON 21 JULY 2025 Prices from: £3995pp Single Supplement: £495 Max. 12 clients. Leaders (2024) Andy Jones & Dave Pearce.

Exploring dramatic landscapes, we seek Harlequin, Barrow’s Goldeneye, Gyrfalcon, White-tailed Eagle, Great Northern and Red-throated Diver, Ptarmigan, Red-necked Phalarope, Whimbrel, Brünnich’s Guillemot, Snow Bunting and more including rarities. We also visit the famous geysers at Geysir, take in other cultural highlights and with three whale-watching boat trips planned, this is an excellent tour for cetaceans. Likely are Harbour Porpoise, White-beaked Dolphin, Orca, Humpback and Minke Whale, while there are even chances of mighty Blue, Sperm, Fin and Sei Whale, and Bottle-nosed and White-sided Dolphin as many marine mammals congregate in the food-rich waters of the North Atlantic. Summer really is a great time to experience the wildlife in the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’!

NEW! SOUTH-EAST ICELAND – BIRDING, VOLCANOES & GLACIERS A gentle tour of geology and birdlife in SE Iceland.

SAT 24 MAY – SAT 31 MAY 2025

Prices: TBC Max. 7 clients. Leader Andy Jones.

A wonderful new holiday exploring the Southern and South-Eastern parts of Iceland, including a visit to the fabulous Westman Islands. Birding includes the world’s largest Puffin colony and Icelandic specialities, such as Harlequin, Barrow’s Goldeneye, Gyrfalcon, Ptarmigan, Red-necked Phalarope as well as divers, waders, wildfowl, gulls and a few passerines. Around 60 bird species are expected, and our RIB boat trip takes us close to some of the largest seabird cities in the world! We also watch for whales and dolphins and take in a range of cultural delights from geysers, waterfalls, volcanoes and glaciers on this relaxing holiday.

SOUTHERN IRELAND in AUTUMN Migration in County Cork and County Wexford.

SAT 31 AUGUST – SAT 7 SEPTEMBER 2024 SAT 30 AUGUST – SAT 6 SEPTEMBER 2025 Prices from: £2695pp Single Supplement: £300 Max. 7 clients. Leader (2024) Toby Green.

A two-centre, flexible tour, this is an exciting migration-based holiday, taking in hotspots and some lesser-watched places along Ireland's south coast. We spend our days enjoying the large numbers of waders which migrate through the region, with seabirds and passerines featuring in favourable conditions too. Busy birding days await, as we divide our time between County Cork in the south-west and County Wexford in the south-east. A day trip over to Cape Clear Island will be a highlight - one of the most famous sites in Ireland and on another day, we take a seabird and whale watching boat trip, hoping to see rarer seabirds such as Great and Cory’s Shearwater alongside whales and dolphins. While mainly trying to find our own birds, we seek out any rarities within reach, all the while enjoying a great week’s birding on the south coast of the ‘Emerald Isle’.

ITALY – PO DELTA and VENICE Fascinating birding in one of Europe's most important National Parks, followed by a fantastic few days in Venice.

THURS 3 APRIL – THURS 10 APRIL 2025 Prices from: £2695pp Single Supplement: £445 Max. 12 clients. Leader/s from the Heatherlea team.

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With a flat and predominantly wet landscape, the Po Delta National Park is one of the best places in Europe to watch wetland birds including Pygmy Cormorant, Marsh Sandpiper, Caspian Tern, Slender-billed Gull, Black-necked Grebe and many more. After four nights in the Po Delta we transfer to Venice, spending three nights in this wonderful city to explore at your leisure. Your Guide will advise on the best places to go, a three-day waterbus ticket with unlimited travel included, helping you to make the most of this very different two-centre holiday combining birding with a great city break.

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LESVOS Eastern Mediterranean specialities and migrants.

WED 17 APRIL – WED 24 APRIL 2024 Prices from: £1995pp Single Supplement: £175 Max. 12 clients. Leaders Holly Page & Bernie Forbes.

Lesvos is a classic destination, one of the 'must do' places for birders with an interest in spring migration. Around 150 species can be expected on this popular tour, including many of the most sought-after birds of Europe. As well as a wide variety of migrant herons, storks, waders, raptors, terns and passerines, we look for local specialities including Krüper’s Nuthatch, Middle-spotted Woodpecker, Sombre Tit and Cinereous Bunting. In the right conditions the turn-over of birds changes daily, and rarities and impressive falls can often occur! Imagine seven Golden Oriole in one tree, or Long-legged Buzzard overhead - anything can happen with Spur-winged Plover, Eleonora’s Falcon, Olive-tree Warbler and Rufous Bush-Robin among the birds we may encounter.

NEW! MADEIRA Endemic seabirds and passerines in a wonderful Atlantic setting.

TUES 4 JUNE – SUN 9 JUNE 2024 Prices from: £2295pp Single Supplement: £90 Max. 9 clients. Leader Holly Page.

An exciting new holiday 'for Birders...', with endemic and rare seabirds at the fore. We have three boat trips arranged and Zino’s Petrel, arguably Europe’s rarest seabird is an important target. Similar looking Fea’s Petrel will also be seen with Cory’s Shearwater, Bulwer’s Petrel, Madeiran and White-faced Storm-Petrel likely, perhaps alongside rarer species. On one night we take an organised trip out to the Zino's Petrel colony, though be aware this is a strenuous walk and you will also need to have good sea legs for this tour. Cetaceans include dolphins (of several species) with Short-finned Pilot Whale and perhaps Bryde’s, Fin or Sperm Whale too. Endemic Mediterranean Monk Seal can be seen around the rocky coasts and venturing into the laurel forests we seek endemic Madeiran Firecrest and Trocaz Pigeon plus Berthelot’s Pipit and a range of endemic sub-species.

MALLORCA Relaxed spring birding in the west Mediterranean Sea. SAT 27 APRIL – SAT 4 MAY 2024 SAT 26 APRIL – SAT 3 MAY 2025 Prices from: £2095pp Single Supplement: £200 Max. 7 clients. Leader (2024) James Champion.

This is a wonderful time for birding in Mallorca and from our delightful base at a family-run hotel in the north of Mallorca, we are conveniently placed to visit the migration hotspots on this ever-popular tour. A vast array of birdlife awaits, and sought-after local birds include Black Vulture, Marmora’s and Moustached Warbler. Other key birds seen infrequently in the UK include Golden Oriole, Hoopoe, Bee-eater and Wryneck, while the range of raptors could include Eleonora’s and Red-footed Falcon, Honey Buzzard, Egyptian Vulture, Short-toed Eagle and many more. This gently-paced tour has a potential list of over 120 species and a major objective is for everyone to enjoy good views of as many of them as possible.

NEW! POLAND Birds of the Bialowieza Forest and the Biebrza Marshes.

SUN 18 MAY – SUN 25 MAY 2025 Prices from: £2695pp Single Supplement: £230 Max. 7 clients. Leader Gerard Gorman.

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A brilliant destination for keen birdwatchers, our Polish itinerary has been carefully planned to make the most of two fantastic regions in the largely rural unspoilt north-east of the country. Across a range of habitats, key species include Aquatic Warbler, Three-toed, Whitebacked and Grey-headed Woodpecker, Hazel Grouse, Greater and Lesser Spotted Eagle, Whiskered and White-winged Tern, Citrine Wagtail, Red-breasted and Collared Flycatcher, Nutcracker and River, Savi’s, Barred, Icterine and Marsh Warbler. Pygmy and Tengmalm's Owl may also be seen at dusk, while special excursions to watch Great Snipe, Ruff and Black Grouse at the lek will be memorable. We might also encounter forest dwelling European Bison, Elk and Beaver in this enviable feast of wildlife!

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ROMANIA & THE DANUBE DELTA Birding Romania by land and by 'floating hotel'!

TUES 4 JUNE – TUES 11 JUNE 2024 SAT 7 JUNE – SAT 14 JUNE 2025 Prices from: £2895pp Single Supplement: £280 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Bernie Forbes, joined by expert local guides.

The Danube Delta is the second biggest riverine delta in Europe, and home to large numbers of migrant and resident waterbirds it is a great place for birding. With five nights on board our exclusive ’floating hotel’ house-boat and two nights on land, we enjoy the Danube’s special birds from different perspectives. Amongst our targets are Dalmatian Pelican, Pygmy Cormorant, Little Crake, every European species of heron, Levant Sparrowhawk, Long-legged Buzzard, Collared Pratincole, terns, eight species of woodpecker, plus Roller, Bee-eater, Isabelline and Pied Wheatear, Paddyfield Warbler, Penduline Tit, Rose-coloured Starling and many more. We also enjoy a flavour of the real Romania - friendly, relaxed and stunningly beautiful.

SKYROS Relaxed Spring birding on an unspoilt Greek Island in the heart of the Aegean Sea. SAT 26 APRIL – SAT 3 MAY 2025 Prices from: £2495pp Single Supplement: £175 Max. 12 clients. Leader/s from the Heatherlea team.

A favourite destination for Heatherlea, unspoilt by tourism and ideal for birders wanting to enjoy spring migration without the crowds. Laying claim to the largest nesting colony of Eleonora's Falcon in the world, our private boat charter under the cliffs to watch these aerial masters will be an unforgettable highlight! We should also see Yelkouan and Scopoli's Shearwater and Audouin’s Gull, while on land, sparse cover attracts a variety of migrant passerines in good numbers.

Cretzschmar’s Bunting and Eastern Subalpine Warbler are both targets and other raptors may include Montagu's and Pallid Harrier, Long-legged Buzzard, Bonelli’s Eagle, Levant Sparrowhawk and Lesser Kestrel. And while comparisons with Lesvos are inevitable, Skyros, sitting further out into the Aegean Sea offers a very different birding experience. The island is smaller and the birds more concentrated meaning that the pace here is distinctly relaxed with long lunches taken in the field or at a local taverna.

NEW! SLOVAKIA SHORT BREAK A bird-filled short break in a quiet corner of Europe.

THURS 24 APRIL – SUN 27 APRIL 2025 Prices from: £1495pp Single Supplement: £125 Max. 7 clients. Leader Gerard Gorman.

A new and original short break, targeting resident and passage birds in an under-watched corner of Europe. A country with remarkably diverse landscapes and habitats, we are based in the south-west and travel via Vienna, one of Europe’s most desirable capital cities. We hope to see a wide range of central European birds in a variety of habitats including Red-necked Grebe, Red-crested Pochard, Pygmy Cormorant, Spotted Redshank, Whiskered Tern, Great Reed Warbler, Red-backed Shrike and many more. The region also boasts an impressive list of woodpeckers and we look for Wryneck, Middle Spotted, Lesser Spotted, Syrian, White-backed, Grey-headed and Europe’s biggest, Black Woodpecker. With cultural attractions for those who wish to extend their stay, we can also help you extend your holiday under our ATOL Licence if desired.

SPAIN - ANDALUCIA for AUTUMN MIGRATION & IBERIAN SPECIALITIES Raptors, storks and passerines on migration, plus key resident birds inland and on the coast.

SAT 7 SEPTEMBER – SAT 14 SEPTEMBER 2024 Prices from: £2195pp Single Supplement: £300 Max.7 clients. Leader John Muddeman.

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More raptors migrate across the Straits of Gibraltar than at any other European site, thousands funnelling through the area on any given day in September. Watching from viewpoints on the Spanish side, Honey Buzzard, Black Kite, Egyptian and Griffon Vulture, Short-toed, Bonelli’s and Booted Eagle, Montagu’s Harrier and Lesser Kestrel can be numerous as can Black and White Stork, with Black Vulture and Black-winged Kite among the rarer possibilities. Local birds include Northern Bald Ibis, Marbled Teal, White-headed Duck, Purple Gallinule, Greater Flamingo, Audouin's and Slender-billed Gull, Lesser Crested Tern, Iberian Magpie alongside a variety of migrant passerines. A real feast of birds in a warm and inviting Mediterranean environment, while an exciting new element of our tour will be a boat trip for Long-finned Pilot Whales, dolphins and seabirds.

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SPAIN for BIRDS AND BUTTERFLIES Relaxed days in Catalonia and south-east Aragon enjoying birds and butterflies.

WED 21 MAY – TUES 27 MAY 2025 Prices from: £2195pp Single Supplement: £195 Max.12 clients. Leader Steve West joined by another from the Heatherlea team with over 7 clients.

A delightful holiday in late spring, taking in a wide variety of birds and butterflies of this wildlife rich Spanish region. Birds include a broad selection of western European specialities such as Little Bustard, Black-bellied and Pin-tailed Sandgrouse, Lammergeier, Eurasian Griffon Vulture, European Eagle Owl, Iberian Grey Shrike, Alpine and Red-billed Chough, Rufous-tailed and Blue Rock Thrush, Black Wheatear, Citril Finch, Rock Bunting and plenty more. Rare and spectacular butterflies may include Apollo, Two-tailed Pasha, European, Spanish and Scarce Swallowtail, Cleopatra, Duke of Burgundy, Lesser Purple Emperor, Camberwell Beauty, Iberian Marbled, Mountain Small and Western Dappled White, Moroccan Orange Tip, Mountain Clouded Yellow, Knapweed, Niobe, Spotted, Glanville, Lesser Spotted and Queen of Spain Fritillary, Lefebvre’s, Pyrenees Grassy and Piedmont Ringlet, Dusky and Pearly Heath, Rock Grayling, Large Grizzled and Southern Marbled Skipper.

SPAIN - CATALONIA and SOUTH-EAST ARAGON Superb spring birding from the Ebro Delta to the pre-Pyrenees.

WED 17 APRIL – THURS 25 APRIL 2024 WED 23 APRIL – THURS 1 MAY 2025 Prices from: £2195pp Single Supplement: £295 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Dave Pearce and expert local guide Sergi Sales.

This wonderful spring holiday in the Iberian Peninsula combines great birding at known hotspots with exploring under-watched locations for resident and migrant birds alike.

Beginning in the Ebro Delta, waterbirds should include Audouin's and Slender-billed Gull, Gull-billed, Black and Whiskered Tern plus up to 25 species of wader! In the inland steppes we look for endangered Spanish Ibex alongside Little Bustard, Black-bellied and Pin-tailed Sandgrouse, Lammergeier and many more. Other birds of interest as we travel include Moustached Warbler, Black Wheatear, Iberian Grey Shrike, Iberian Green Woodpecker and Great Spotted Cuckoo, with an outside chance of Great Bustard, Dupont's Lark and perhaps even Wallcreeper.

NEW! SPAIN in EARLY SPRING Wallcreeper, Lammergeier, bustards, sandgrouse and much more!

SAT 2 MARCH – SAT 9 MARCH 2024 SAT 1 MARCH– SAT 8 MARCH 2025 Prices from: £1995pp Single Supplement: £250 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Steve West.

A new late-winter/early-spring holiday based in an area of the Iberian Peninsula full of speciality birds! Timing is important and at this time of year we look for altitudinal migrants in the Pyrenees in particular Wallcreeper and Alpine Accentor, alongside resident Alpine Chough, Lammergeier and Citril Finch. In the paddyfields and wetlands of the Ebro Delta we look for a range of herons, ducks, and waders, plus Bluethroat, Moustached Warbler and passage Spotted Crake. Inland steppe and Mediterranean scrubland support Little Bustard, Egyptian Vulture, Bonelli’s Eagle, Great Spotted Cuckoo, Pin-tailed Sandgrouse, Stone Curlew, Iberian Green Woodpecker with chances of rare Dupont’s Lark on this great new Spanish itinerary.

SPAIN - EXTREMADURA

Featuring some of the best birding in Europe, many rare and endangered Iberian species alongside a host of migrants can be expected on this popular tour.

Outstanding raptor watching will be a highlight, with all five Spanish eagles including endangered Spanish Imperial, and three vultures with Black, Egyptian and Griffon likely.

We watch the spectacular breeding display of Great Bustard plus Little Bustard, Blackbellied and Pin-tailed Sandgrouse. Other birds should include Purple Heron and Little Bittern, Collared Pratincole, European Eagle Owl, Bee-eater, Roller, Hoopoe, Rock Bunting, Iberian Grey Shrike, Alpine Swift, Tawny Pipit, Black-eared Wheatear, Great Spotted Cuckoo, Iberian Magpie, Spanish Sparrow and a long list of warblers. You won’t believe how many birds there are in Extremadura!

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EUROPE

Birds of prey, bustards, sandgrouse and brilliant Spanish spring birding.

SAT 13 APRIL – SAT 20 APRIL 2024 WED 23 APRIL – WED 30 APRIL 2025 Prices from: £2095pp Single Supplement: £225 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) John Muddeman.

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NEW! SPAIN – EXTREMADURA in WINTER Raptors, Bustards and more at one of Spain's premier birding destinations in winter.

SUN 1 DECEMBER – SAT 7 DECEMBER 2024 SUN 7 DECEMBER – SAT 13 DECEMBER 2025 Prices from: £1995pp Single Supplement: £220 Max. 7 clients. Leader (2024) John Muddeman.

The Extremadura region of Spain is rightfully one of the most famous birding destinations on the Iberian Peninsula and many of Europe’s rarest and most endangered species take advantage of the mild winter climate. One, if not the largest winter congregations of Common Crane in the world gather here, and other regional specialities include Great and Little Bustard and Pin-tailed and Black-bellied Sandgrouse. On this leisurely paced tour, we look for wintering wildfowl and waders around wetter areas and flocks of larks and finches in drier arable land. Such an abundance of birdlife attracts raptors and Black-shouldered Kite is a special target as is Black Vulture and Spanish Imperial Eagle within the much-famed Monfragüe National Park.

SPAIN – BIRDING and LYNX Endangered Iberian Lynx plus superb birding and wildlife watching in Coto Doñana and the Sierra de Andújar.

SAT 11 JANUARY – SAT 18 JANUARY 2025 Prices from: £2095pp Single Supplement: £250 Max. 12 clients. Leader John Muddeman, joined by Sergi Sales with over 7 clients.

The Iberian Lynx is a very special mammal and one of the most endangered wild cats in the world! On this popular tour we visit two classic Spanish destinations, giving more opportunities to see this beautiful, yet elusive cat which together with excellent birding makes for an enjoyable winter wildlife holiday. Likely birds include Marbled Teal, White and Black Stork, Red-knobbed Coot, Griffon and Black Vulture, Spanish Imperial Eagle, Iberian Magpie and Black Wheatear, while we may also see Wild Boar, Red and Fallow Deer, Mouflon and Otter as we explore.

NEW! SWEDEN in AUTUMN – MIGRATION at FALSTERBO Exciting southbound migration with raptors and more.

SUN 1 SEPTEMBER – SAT 7 SEPTEMBER 2024 Prices from: £2495pp Single Supplement: £160 Max. 12 clients. Leader Stephen Menzie joined by Mark Warren with over 7 clients.

At the south-westernmost tip of Sweden, Falsterbo is one of the most iconic watchpoints in all of Europe! Each autumn, around 500 million migrant birds pass through and with a reputation second to none, it is the perfect location to witness birds on the move. An essential destination for the raptor enthusiast, in early-September thousands of individuals of over 20 species are recorded annually from kites, buzzards, harriers, hawks, eagles to falcons.

Often alongside Common Crane, White and Black Stork, the overhead spectacle can be incredible! Mixed scrub, scattered woodland, and fields around the watchpoint offer shelter for migrant passerines, with wildfowl, waders, gulls and terns on the move offshore bringing further variety. Autumn at Falsterbo can often mean birds everywhere and you will be amazed by their sheer number and the wonder of migration!

SWEDEN in WINTER for BIRDERS Winter woodpeckers, owls and other Scandinavian specialities!

SAT 25 JANUARY - THURS 30 JANUARY 2025 Prices from: £2495pp Single Supplement: £270 Max. 12 clients. Leader Mark Warren joined by another from the Heatherlea team with over 7 clients.

EUROPE

Most birders will have dreamt of seeing Scandinavia's specialities, in particular the owls and this ‘For Birders…’ trip will have a special focus on finding them! Nomadic by nature, numbers fluctuate annually, but once they find good feeding can become reliable to winter territories and we hope to get lucky with Great Grey, Ural, Northern Hawk, European Eagle, Tengmalm’s and Pygmy Owl as we explore. Other sought-after winter birds in the forests and farmland include Hazel Grouse, Capercaillie, Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Rough-legged Buzzard, Black, Grey-headed and Three-toed Woodpecker, Siberian Jay, Nutcracker, Great Grey Shrike, Waxwing, Arctic Redpoll and Pine Grosbeak. Based centrally and not far from Stockholm, we also visit the Baltic Coast for wildfowl while mammals we may encounter include European Elk, European Beaver, Red Fox and a darker variant of familiar Red Squirrel.

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tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

NEW! ARIZONA Fantastic spring birding across the Copper state!

WED 2 APRIL – TUES 15 APRIL 2025 Prices from: £6295pp Single Supplement: £800 Max. 12 clients. Leader from the Heatherlea team, plus experienced local guides.

With more than 550 species recorded and spectacular scenery too, Arizona is one of THE premier birding destinations in North America. Sharing a border with Mexico, there is always something to see and with migration in full swing, wave upon wave of new birds can arrive in the right conditions. Desert specialities may be found out on the plains, none more iconic than Greater Roadrunner - a much sought-after prize for every visiting birder! Equally famous for its hummingbirds, Violet-crowned, Rivoli’s, Lucifer’s, Anna’s and Calliope will be among our biggest targets. Other key birds include Montezuma Quail, Elegant Trogon, hard to find Olive and Red-faced Warbler, range restricted Five-striped Sparrow and Arizona’s state bird - the Cactus Wren. American Wood-warblers in bright summer-plumage inevitably attract plenty of attention. while in a state where water is limited, any wetland habitat can be busy with migrant waders and wildfowl. With such enjoyable birding, this is the trip every birder should do at least once in their lifetime!

NEW! BELIZE – WILDLIFE OF THE YUCATAN PENINSULA Outstanding Central American birding plus stunning Mayan archaeological sites.

SUN 16 NOVEMBER – SAT 29 NOVEMBER 2025

Prices from: TBC Max. 12 clients. Leader Gabor Orban.

Largely unspoilt and with a small population, Belize is one of the most important birding & wildlife destinations in the Caribbean. Benefitting from a strategic location between North and South America, a range of climates and habitats make it home to around 570 bird species, many interesting mammals, scores of butterflies and much more! We also explore the Yucatán peninsula, a region of neighbouring Mexico, and in doing so add some special birds not found in Belize. Of the many endemics on this tour, Yucatán Woodpecker, White-browed Wren, Black Catbird, Rose-throated Tanager, Blue Bunting, Orange Oriole, Yucatán Parrot, Yucatán Vireo, Yucatán Jay and Yucatán Flycatcher, Yucatán Bobwhite, Yucatán Poorwill and Yucatán Nightjar are just some of those we seek. Other hard-to-see species include Orange-breasted Falcon, Tody Motmot, Azure-crowned Hummingbird, Rufous-capped Warbler, Solitary and Crested Eagle and Ocellated Turkey. Mammals, amphibians and reptiles, including Morelet’s Crocodile, may also be seen, and this is an excellent trip for butterflies such as three species of Blue Morpho, Monarch, Striated Queen, Short-lined Kite Swallowtail, Mexican Cycadian, Red Rim, Tiger Heliconian, Orion Cecropian, Malachite and many more.

NEW! SOUTH - EAST BRAZIL – THE ATLANTIC RAINFOREST Exciting birding and endangered Maned Wolf in one of the most fragile habitats in the world!

TUES 18 JUNE – THURS 4 JULY 2024 Prices from: £7595pp Single Supplement: £450 Max. 12 clients. Leader Pete Cosgrove plus experienced local guides.

Despite being one of the planet’s richest places for bird diversity, the Atlantic Rainforest in South-East Brazil is one of the most threatened habitats in the world. The remaining protected areas are home to over 900 bird species, of which 140 are endemic and another 105 near endemic. On this tour we aim to see around 350 of them, and by visiting these protected areas we will be actively supporting important conservation projects in the region. Staying at a series of eco-lodges, we are well placed to explore the forest trails and watch for hummingbirds, tanagers and more at the feeders. Special targets and iconic species include Fasciated Tiger-Heron, Dusky-legged Guan, Three-toed Jacamar, Red and White Crake, Ornate Hawk Eagle, Black-capped Screech-Owl, Blue-billed Parrot, Cryptic Antthrush, Helmeted Woodpecker, Saffron Toucanet, Grey-winged Cotinga, Atlantic Royal Flycatcher and many more. Maned Wolf is another very special target, and we have two opportunities for nightly excursions to try and see this elusive and rare mammal.

BRAZIL – THE PANTANAL

Brazil's Pantanal is one of the world's largest tropical wetlands, a vast ecosystem and home to around 740 bird species, 150 mammals and 480 reptiles making it one of the greatest wildlife areas in South America. We visit in July, when travel is relatively easy and wildlife generally is at its most accessible, and have excellent chances to see iconic mammals such as Jaguar, Giant Anteater and Giant River Otter.

Birding is our main focus and a list of around 250 species can be expected and some of the targets being Helmeted Manakin, Dot-eared Coquette, Cinnamon-throated Hermit, Hyacinth, Blue-winged, Redshouldered, Red-and-Green Macaw, Blue-headed Parrot, Swallow Tanager, Yellow-billed Blue Finch, Bat Falcon, Euler’s Flycatcher, White-backed Fire-eye, Yellow-tufted Woodpecker, Ornate Hawk-Eagle, Russet-crowned Crake, Chapada Flycatcher, Collared Crescent-chest, Rufous-sided Pygmy Tyrant, Rufous-winged Antshrike, Shrike-like Tanager, Small-billed Tinamou, Sooty-fronted Spinetail, Coal-crested and Red Pileated Finch and Black-throated Saltator. A wealth of tropical wildlife awaits!

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AMERICAS

Superb birding and mammals in the heart of Brazil.

SAT 12 JULY – WED 23 JULY 2025 Prices from: £6295pp Single Supplement: £750 Max. 12 clients. Leader Experienced local guides, joined by Pete Cosgrove with over 10 clients.

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NEW! BRITISH COLUMBIA Birds & Bears on the North- western Frontier!

MON 18 AUGUST – TUES 2 SEPTEMBER 2025 Prices from: £8495pp Single Supplement: £1530 Max 10 Clients. Leader Holly Page plus experienced local guides.

Arguably one of the most spectacular places to view wildlife in the Americas, the coastline and islands off Canada’s Pacific coast are a land where superlatives quickly become obsolete! At 460 km long, 100 km wide and brimming with wildlife, Vancouver Island will be the main area of focus on this gentle placed holiday, home to iconic wildlife such as Black Bear, Orca, Grey Whale, Steller Sea Lion and Sea Otter – also known as the Vancouver big 5! Other key mammals include Grizzly Bear and Humpback Whale, while coastal birds such as breeding plumaged Surf and White-winged Scoter, Harlequin Duck and Pacific Diver will feature regularly. On rocky coastlines, Pelagic Cormorant, Black Oystercatcher, Surfbird and Glaucous-winged Gull may be seen, and we have a great chance of Black-footed Albatross, Fork-tailed Stormm Petrel, Pigeon Guillemot, Tufted Puffin, Rhinoceros and Cassin’s Auklet and Marbled Murrelet and others out in open water. The protected woodlands, regional and national parks also are home to sublime Anna’s Hummingbird, Chestnut-backed Chickadee and a range of American Wood-warblers, while we hope to find Canada Jay, Red-breasted Sapsucker and Sooty Grouse in high-elevation forests. If you have always wanted to visit Canada or simply go wildlife watching on the Pacific coast for iconic species, then this is the perfect Heatherlea trip for you.

NEW! CAPE MAY FOR BIRDERS Some of the best migration birding on the planet!

SAT 21 SEPTEMBER – MON 30 SEPTEMBER 2024 Prices from: £4595pp Single Supplement: £735 Max. 12 clients. Leader Mark Warren plus experienced local guides.

Listed by National Geographic as ‘World’s Best destination for birding’, Cape May is an iconic location for the migration enthusiast. The narrow peninsula is a natural bird funnel, drawing in songbirds during their spring and autumn (fall) migrations and in the right conditions, the birding is exceptional. In just a small area, our expected tally of around 150 species may include over twenty attractive American Wood-warbler including Pine, Blackpoll, Magnolia, Myrtle, Black and White, Black-throated Blue, Black-throated Green, Prairie, Connecticut, Blackburnian, Bay-breasted, Tennessee and Cape May Warbler, Northern Parula, American Redstart and Common Yellowthroat.

We look for waterbirds around the peninsula’s estuaries and beaches, with post-breeding Piping Plover, multiple sandpipers, Willet, Marbled Godwit, Short and Long-billed Dowitcher, Tricoloured, Little Blue, Great Blue Heron and Yellow Crowned Night Heron just some of them. Seawatching can be productive in onshore winds, while the Cape May Hawkwatch platform is legendary and very much THE raptor capital of the Eastern Seaboard! A classic migration-based holiday, and for those who have poured over North American field guides and dreamt of seeing these birds - here’s your opportunity!

NEW! CHILE & THE ATACAMA DESERT The spectacular birdlife of the Atacama and Altiplano regions of Northern Chile, plus an exciting extension to Robinson Crusoe Island.

TUES 26 NOVEMBER – TUES 10 DECEMBER 2024 Prices from: £7695pp Single Supplement: £700 Max. 12 clients. Leader Claudio F Vidal joined by one from the Heatherlea team with over 9 clients.

Chile is fast becoming a popular birding destination and on this ‘one-time only’, carefully designed tour, we combine the wonderful birdlife of the Santiago area with the spectacular Atacama and Altiplano desert regions to the northeast. Fabulous birding awaits, from the heights of the Andes for iconic Andean Condor and Diademed Sandpiper-Plover to sought-after endemics including Chilean Tinamou and White-throated Tapaculo. Covering 5% of the national landmass, the Atacama is perhaps the world's driest desert while on the fringes the Altiplano plateau we visit birding hotspots including Lauca National Park, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Among the birds we hope to encounter are endangered Horned Coot, plus Chilean, Andean and Puna Flamingo, Puna Ibis, Puna Plover, Peruvian Thick-knee, Band-tailed, Rufous-bellied and Grey-breasted Seedsnipe, Black-hooded, Mourning and Ash-breasted Seirra Finch, Golden Spotted Ground Dove, Mountain Parakeet and Chile's smallest bird - tiny Chilean Woodstar. Two dedicated pelagic trips offer chances of up to six species of albatross, Humboldt Penguin, Peruvian Diving Petrel, Elliot’s and Markham’s Storm Petrels, endangered Peruvian Tern and spectacular Inca Tern!

Robinson Crusoe Island birding extension Part of the Juan Fernández archipelago, roughly 400 miles offshore and accessible via a two-hour flight, the interior of Robinson Crusoe Island is largely made up of temperate sub-tropical woodlands. One of the most endangered habitats in the world, we search for two endemic landbirds in particular - Juan Fernández Firecrown and Juan Fernández Tit-tyrant. Rare seabirds also nest in burrows deep within these secluded forests, and on a dedicated pelagic trip we look for De Fillipi’s, Stejneger’s, Kermadec and Juan Fernández Petrel plus Pink-footed Shearwater. Given the remote nature of this epic adventure, we are only scheduling one tour here for the foreseeable, so join us in 2024 for what promises to be a genuine holiday of a lifetime!

CHILE

AMERICAS

An exciting and comprehensive tour concentrating on birds and wildlife.

MON 13 OCTOBER – THURS 30 OCTOBER 2025 Prices from: £8695pp Single Supplement: £960 Max. 12 clients. Leader experienced local guide, joined by one from the Heatherlea team with over 10 clients.

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With around 530 species, including many of the most spectacular and desirable birds in the world, Chile is a wonderful destination for any birder! We cover a range of different habitats, from the high Andes and arid desert of central regions near Santiago, the Pacific islands to the tundra and sub-Antarctic rainforest of Tierra del Fuego in the far south. Key targets as we travel include Andean Condor, Diademed Sandpiper-Plover, Magellanic Plover, Torrent Duck, Upland Goose, Lesser Rhea, Least Seedsnipe, Austral Parakeet, Austral Pygmy Owl and recently re-discovered Austral Rail. Tierra del Fuego is a famous South American destination, where the huge colony of Magellanic Penguin will feature alongside Imperial and Rock Cormorant, King Penguin, South American Tern, Magellanic Woodpecker, Patagonian Tinamou and stunning White bridled Finch. Internal flights allow us to cover Chile more effectively and during a four-night stay on Chiloe Island, we hope to see endemic Blackthroated Huet-huet, Chucao, Magellanic Tapaculo, Patagonian Tyrant, Des Murs’s Wiretail, Green-backed Firecrown and others. There are also chances of Puma and other rare mammals on this tour, while a pelagic for up to six species of albatross, Northern and Southern Giant-Petrel, De Filippi’s, Whitechinned and Westland Petrel, Chilean Skua, Humboldt Penguin and Inca Tern will be another highlight. tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

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NEW! COLOMBIA An exceptional birding tour from Colombia's central and western Andes to the endemic-rich Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.

SAT 19 OCTOBER – SUN 3 NOVEMBER 2024 Prices from: £7495pp Single Supplement: £850 Max. 12 clients. Leader Andres Trujillo joined by one from the Heatherlea team with over 9 clients.

Nearly 2000 bird species have been recorded in Colombia, more than any other country in the world and its diverse geography and landscape make this a wonderful destination. On this busy tour, we cover the eastern, central and western slopes of the Andes, the Magdalena Valley hotspots and the Santa Marta mountains anticipating perhaps over 500 species - more than on any other Heatherlea tour! Colombia is a large country and internal flights allow us to cover the ground more efficiently, and our itinerary will be most suited to those with a strong birding perspective. With chances of over 35 endemics and some species difficult to see anywhere else in the world, key targets include endangered Yellow-eared Parrot, Brown-breasted Parakeet, Bogotá Rail, Velvetfronted Euphonia, Stiles Tapaculo, Dusky Starfrontlet, Golden-fronted Whitestart, Silvery-throated Spinetail, Apical Flycatcher and Colombian Chachalaca, while we aim to connect with a good number of the 23 Santa Marta endemics. Other highlights include wonderful Andean Cock of the Rock at a lekking site, and the bizarre Oilbird. Colombia offers interesting mammals too, with Spectacled Bear and endemic White-fronted Tamarin Monkey among the possibilities, while we also take ‘time out’ for cultural aspects including a bird-friendly Colombian coffee tour.

COSTA RICA CLASSIC Our ever-popular Costa Rica tour.

SAT 23 NOVEMBER – SUN 8 DECEMBER 2024 SAT 11 JANUARY – SUN 26 JANUARY 2025 Prices from: £6295pp Single Supplement: £695 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Aidan Branch joined by Costa Rican expert Esteban Biamonte.

Boasting more bird species per square mile than any other country on earth, Costa Rica is without doubt a bird-watchers paradise! With a strong commitment to conservation, the national park system alongside a number of privately-run reserves, together protect over a quarter of the landmass for wildlife. Heatherlea have been visiting for over 20 years, and on our 'Classic Tour' we explore a sample of Costa Rica's most biologically diverse areas for the very best experience. Of the 850 bird species recorded, we anticipate seeing 300-400 of these, including endemics. Key targets and iconic species include Resplendent Quetzal, Sun Bittern, Tiger Heron, Great Potoo, Snowy Cotinga, Torrent Tyrannulet, Rufous Motmot, Slaty-breasted Tinamou, Spotbreasted Oriole and Clay-coloured Thrush - Costa Rica's national bird. Hummingbirds will delight too, an explosion of colour and we could see over 30 including Black-crested Coquette, White-bellied Mountain Gem, Violet Sabrewing, Crowned Woodnymph, Blue-throated Golden-tail plus Fiery-throated, Blue-chested, Volcano and Talamanco Hummingbird. Other wildlife will include monkeys, sloths, bats, lizards, crocodiles, amphibians, turtles, snakes, a vast range of butterflies and a wealth of flora, making this an ideal tour for the first-time visitor, or for your first long-distance birding holiday.

COSTA RICA CLASSIC - PLUS! Birding and Wildlife during an unforgettable 18-night experience.

SAT 2 NOVEMBER – WED 20 NOVEMBER 2024 SAT 8 NOVEMBER – WED 26 NOVEMBER 2025 SAT 22 NOVEMBER – WED 10 DECEMBER 2025 Prices from: £6895pp Single Supplement: £720 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Mark Warren joined by Costa Rican expert Paco Madrigal.

Heatherlea are very experienced in Costa Rica, and this 'Classic - PLUS' is an enhanced version of our 15night Classic Tour, staying three nights longer with more time at some of the nest birding sites.

Additional elements include a visit to see baby Green Turtles hatching on the beach, more hummingbird sites offering a greater range, chances to see scarcer birds only possible with extra time, more night forest walks for owls and nocturnal wildlife and an (optional) visit to a chocolate plantation. Alongside the rollcall of likely species from our ‘Classic Tour’, possibilities with more time may include White Hawk, Bat Falcon, Bronze-tailed Plumeleteer, Baird’s Trogon, Thicket Antpitta, Lanceolated Monklet, Great and Little Tinamou, Rufous-winged Tanager and plenty of others. Greater nocturnal effort may afford views of Black and White, Striped and Spectacled Owl, Ferruginous, Central American and Costa Rican Pygmy-Owl, Pacific and Bare-shanked Screech-Owl, Great Potoo, Short-tailed and Lesser Nighthawk.

With more time to enjoy classic Costa Rican destinations such as Tortuguero, La Selva and Ensenada, we can devote more attention to a wide mix of wildlife. All our tours see a myriad of animal, bird, insect and plant life, but this one always allows us to add a few extra!

NEW! COSTA RICA with EASY WALKING

All of our Costa Rican tours operate at a relaxed pace, though this ‘Easy Walking’ itinerary is especially suitable for those who don't want to walk too far. Don’t worry, you certainly won't miss out! We feature leisurely strolls, utilise feeding stations close to the lodges and hotels and enjoy boat rides along quiet rivers - all of which enable us to get close to wildlife. A birdlist in excess of 300 species is likely, with more time offered to enjoy iconic birds including Resplendent Quetzal, Anhinga, Boat-billed Heron, Rufous Motmot, Snowy Cotinga alongside a wide variety of hummingbirds, tanagers, orioles, warblers and woodpeckers. Optional evening excursions close to our accommodation may yield Black and White Owl, Great Potoo and Lesser Nighthawk, and during the tour you should also see three monkey species, both sloths, a variety of reptiles and amphibians and butterflies. Getting close to wildlife is easier in Costa Rica than any other South American country and you will certainly enjoy a vast range of species on this easy-going tour.

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AMERICAS

Birding and Wildlife during an unforgettable 18-night experience.

SAT 3 FEBRUARY – SUN 18 FEBRUARY 2024 SAT 8 FEBRUARY – SUN 23 FEBRUARY 2025 Prices from: £6295pp Single Supplement: £625 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Ian Ford joined by Costa Rican expert Erick Castro.

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NEW! COSTA RICA – BIRDING, WHALES & WILDLIFE DURING MIGRATION Classic birding plus Humpback Whale migration, nesting turtles and more!

SAT 6 SEPTEMBER – SAT 20 SEPTEMBER 2025 Prices from: £6695pp Single Supplement: £650 Max. 12 clients. Leader Costa Rican expert Paco Madrigal.

At a unique time of year when the spectacle of raptor and whale migration, nesting turtles and of course Costa Rica’s resident birds all combine, we enjoy some new and exciting destinations for Heatherlea on this tour. The Sierra Ranger Station, Drake’s Bay and Corcovado National Park all feature for the first time, and it is at these we search for a number of species not on any other Heatherlea holiday. Elusive Baird's Tapir and Central American Squirrel Monkey may be encountered, while birding targets include endemic Mangrove Hummingbird, plus scarce Yellow-billed Cotinga, Red-capped Manakin, Green Kingfisher, King Vulture, Tawny-winged Woodpecker, Costa Rican Swift, Crested Owl, Olivaceous Piculet, Panama Flycatcher, Yellow-crowned Tyrannulet alongside ‘classic’ species such as Sun Bittern. Seeing nesting Green Turtle on a sandy beach and a whale-watching boat trip will both be highlights. With around a 50% chance of Humpback Whale (with calves), we may also see Spotted and Spinner Dolphin, Pilot, Fin or Blue Whale and False Killer Whale plus seabirds including Magnificent Frigatebird, Brown, Masked and Red-footed Booby and Wedge-rumped Storm-Petrel.

CUBA including HAVANA Fantastic birding plus time in the unique capital city!

THURS 21 MARCH – TUES 2 APRIL 2024 Prices from: £4295pp Single Supplement: £195 Max. 12 clients. Leader Gerard Gorman joined by local experts.

Cuba is one of the most important and rewarding Caribbean birding destinations. Over 1200km long, largely unspoilt and with a low population density, it is also handily placed to connect with North/South American migration. The country also boasts a wonderful range of breeding birds, many of which are endemic - half of them endangered! Memorable highlights will include miniscule Bee Hummingbird, rare Fernandina’s Flicker and striking Cuban Trogon, the latter displaying all the colours of the national flag! Our itinerary gives an opportunity to see a wide range of birds at an easy pace, with walking mostly on flat terrain and hotels close to birding hotspots. We travel through a great variety of landscapes visiting all the major habitats, from lush forests to craggy hills and vast wetlands, including the Zapata Peninsula where a number of endemics and specialities await. While the focus of this holiday is clearly upon birding, we have organised the last night in Havana. A brief sightseeing tour is included, and you will also have free time to explore one of the most unique cities in the world!

ECUADOR with AMAZON RAINFOREST EXTENSION Relaxed birding with a huge number of species.

WED 27 AUGUST – SAT 13 SEPTEMBER 2025 Prices from: £5695pp Single Supplement: £400 Max. 12 clients. Leader Andres Trujillo joined by a Heatherlea guide with over 9 clients.

Over 1600 species have been recorded on mainland Ecuador, and on this exciting holiday we expect to locate a quarter or more. Important locations include Milpe Bird Sanctuary, Antisana Ecological Reserve, San Isidro and Wildsumaco on this ideal holiday for those who wish to experience the incredible avian diversity of the country. Some key birds include Andean Condor, Plumbeous Forest-Falcon, Cock-of-theRock, Oilbird, Long-wattled Umbrellabird, Andean Guan, Giant Antpitta, Choco Trogon and a number of endangered species such as Black-breasted Puffleg. We may even be lucky to see an owl which many local ornithologists consider to be new to science!

Amazon Rainforest Extension The bird and wildlife wonders of the greatest rainforest on earth! We arrive via the Napo River, travelling by motorised canoe with chances to see great birds such as Zigzag, Striated and Cocoi Heron on the way. With two full days to explore the excellent trails, an observation tower and the river itself, further additions may include White-throated Toucan, Spangled Cotinga, Swallow-winged Puffbird and plenty more. Howler and Spider Monkey may feature among the many mammals, while a visit to an amazing ‘parrot clay lick’, regularly attracting up to 11 species, will be another highlight.

THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS & MAINLAND ECUADOR

AMERICAS

A superb land and sea trip to one of the World's foremost ecotourism destinations!

MON 9 SEPTEMBER – TUES 1 OCTOBER 2024 Prices from: £9695pp Single Supplement: £925 Max. 12 clients. Leader Andres Trujillo joined by Pete Cosgrove with over 9 clients. .

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On Mainland Ecuador, we take you from snow-covered mountain peaks and high páramo moorlands, through Andean valleys into temperate and subtropical forest, as we explore key habitats and locations of this world-famous bioregion. The Avian diversity of Ecuador is incredible ranging from the iconic Andean Condor, to spectacular Cock-of-the-Rock, strange-looking Oilbird and incredible Long-wattled Umbrellabird. Over 40 species of Hummingbird are also likely on this tour, birders and photographers alike will certainly appreciate the views of these colourful birds on feeders just feet away! Next, we transfer to the Galapagos Islands, a truly unique treasure of our earth. Exploring at a relaxed pace, we use local boat services to visit some of the 13 major islands and smaller islets formed by years of volcanic activity. With some extraordinary species, none are better known than the famous Darwin’s finches, with 17 of the 18 within this species group endemic to the island chain! Other key targets include Flightless Cormorant, Galápagos Penguin, Waved Albatross, Galápagos Dove Galápagos Hawk, Galápagos Rail, Paint-billed Crake, Galápagos Flycatcher, Hood Mockingbird and plenty of others. We also see Giant Tortoise plus endemic Marine Iguana and Galápagos Sea Lion in one of the last truly wild places left on Earth!

tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

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NEW! GUATEMALA Central America's most diverse birding nation.

SUN 26 JANUARY – SUN 9 FEBRUARY 2025

Prices from: TBC Max. 12 clients. Leader one from the Heatherlea team joined by an experienced local guide.

This tour offers some of the finest neotropical birding for hard-to-find and localised species in Central America, and we expect over 300 species. Only 2% of Guatemala is urbanised, and we travel through beautiful landscapes ranging from densely wooded mountains, cloud forests, mighty steaming volcanoes, vast coffee plantations, arid deserts, savannahs, wetlands, mirror-like mountain lakes, and lowland rainforests. We enjoy a huge variety of birdlife including endemics, and range-restricted species. Our targets include Horned and Highland Guan, Lesser Roadrunner, Guatemalan and Bearded Screech-Owl, Pink-headed Warbler, Resplendent Quetzal, Mountain Trogon, Blue-throated, Russet-crowned and Turquoise-browed Motmot, Buffy-crowned Wood-Partridge, Lesser Ground-Cuckoo, Buff-collared Nightjar, Pacific Parakeet, Chestnutsided Shrike-Vireo, Tawny-throated Leaftosser, Black-headed Nightingale-Thrush, along with a variety of hummingbirds, jays, orioles, sparrows, flycatchers and more! As well as exceptional birding, we experience much of the history and culture of the country. Antigua, the ancient capital, is a World Heritage Site located next to former coffee plantations reborn as private nature reserves, where we watch Rufous and Violet Sabrewing, White-eared, Magnificent and Beryline Hummingbird.

TIKAL extension FRI 7 FEBRUARY - THURS 13 FEBRUARY 2025 Price: TBC Offering a good number of additional bird species with the opportunity to take in the history of the Mayans, we explore the wildlife and culture of another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within a vast area, ancient pyramids and structures reach out of the deep forest into the sky, a truly unique landscape with chances of Great Curassow, Ocellated Turkey, White-fronted and Mealy Parrot, Slaty-tailed Trogon, Montezuma Oropendola, Red-capped and White-collared Manakin, Grey-breasted Chat, Black-throated Shrike-Tanager, Mottled and Black-and-white Owl, Common Pauraque, Yucatán Poorwill and plenty more.

NEW! JAMAICA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC & PUERTO RICO A Greater Antilles adventure - three Islands and an endemic filled tour!

WED 29 JANUARY – SUN 9 FEBRUARY 2025 Prices from: £8495pp Single Supplement: £695 Max. 7 clients. Leader Ryan Chenery joined by one from the Heatherlea team.

On this epic multi-island adventure, we travel to three spectacular countries in the Greater Antilles chain. The chance to visit just one of these countries offers vast birding potential, but with the rare opportunity to explore Jamaica, Dominican Republic AND Puerto Rico on the same tour, for birders this is a dream come true. We begin in Jamaica, where from a single centre we have every opportunity to encounter a large percentage of the 28 single-island endemics. Jamaican Blackbird is a key target in the Blue Mountains, as are range restricted Black-billed and Yellowbilled Parrot. The Dominican Republic is next, the largest country we visit, spanning two-thirds of the island often known as Hispaniola (shared with Haita to the west). With a range of habitats, it is home to the largest variety of birds, of which a mouth-watering 32 are single-island endemics. This is where we spend most of our time and in doing so make a real effort for difficult, high montane forest species including La Selle Thrush, White-winged Warbler and Western Chat-Tanager. Our final destination is Puerto Rico, home to a further 18 single-island endemics including the iconic Puerto Rican Parrot and rare Elfin Woods Warbler. With a maximum group size of just 7 on this tour plus two guides, we will maximise our time in each destination, hopefully acheiving an enviable bird list. With such a wealth of possibilities and with chances of new birds around every corner, this is one of the most exciting new tours on offer with Heatherlea!

NEW! MEXICO Birding and Mayan Culture on the Yucatán peninsula.

SUN 17 NOVEMBER – THURS 28 NOVEMBER 2024 Prices from: £5395pp Single Supplement: £675 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Gabor Orban.

This twelve-day holiday explores a variety of habitats and is timed to coincide with the passage of Neotropical migrants through a real birding hotspot! Our tour focusses on northern and central Yucatán and based at five centres we cover the main habitats to see a host of tropical species. Our targets include endemic Yucatán Bobwhite, Yucatán Wren and Mexican Sheartail, regional specialities such as Yucatán Jay, Yucatán Woodpecker, White-bellied Wren, Ocellated Turkey, Canivet’s Emerald, Black Catbird and Orange Oriole and Caribbean birds including Caribbean Elaenia, Western Spindalis, Caribbean Dove and Bananaquit. We take a boat trip into the mangrove lagoons for waterbirds including Bare-throated Tigerheron, Boat-billed Heron, Caribbean Flamingo and more. A range of migrating American Wood-warblers, shorebirds and other passage migrants make for a constantly changing cast of birds and we also pay attention to the colourful butterflies and range of mammals and reptiles we encounter. This holiday also has a strong cultural aspect as we visit amazing world-famous Mayan archaeological sites at Chichén Itzá, Uxmal, and Coba while the prospect of some winter sunshine is often appreciated by our groups too!

NEW! PANAMA

With its stunning Caribbean and Pacific coasts and broad variety of habitats, Panama is a new and exciting birding destination for Heatherlea! At the cross-roads between Central and South America, it holds almost 10% of world’s bird species and on this carefully designed two-centre itinerary we enjoy great variety in two regions with very little traveling around, also benefitting from an interior flight. We begin around central Panama, birdwatching on the Pacific slope along the famous Pipeline Road and other great sites. Amongst hundreds of species, some of our targets include Blue Cotinga, Great Potoo, Harpy Eagle, Stripe-cheeked and Black-striped Woodpecker, Streakedchested Antpitta, Spotted and Bicolored Antbird, Black-breasted Puffbird, Great Jacamar and with a little luck Hoffmann's Two-toed Sloth. For our second week we fly to Tranquilo Bay Eco-lodge on the western Caribbean slope, adjacent to Bastimentos National Marine Park. At the convergence of three distinct ecosystems, it is an extremely diverse and brilliant centre for birding on foot and by boat. Among the birds we hope to see are Snowy Cotinga, Nicaraguan Seed-Finch, Red-billed Tropicbird, Lattice-tailed Trogon, Golden-browed Chlorophonia and Spangle-cheeked Tanager to name a few. Birding the trails and canopy tower is superb here, with a dozen species of hummingbird, six species of kingfisher and up to 25 species of North American Wood-warbler recorded.

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AMERICAS

Brilliant birding across Panama including the Pacific Slope and Tranquilo Bay. SAT 23 NOVEMBER – SUN 8 DECEMBER 2024 Prices from: £6295pp Single Supplement: £1295 Max. 12 clients. Leader Paco Madrigal joined by local expert Euclides ‘Kilo’ Campos.

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SOUTHERN PERU - BIRDING & MACHU PICCHU A relaxed pace birding tour of Peru - with a visit to spectacular Machu Picchu!

SAT 12 OCTOBER – SUN 27 OCTOBER 2024 Prices from: £5995pp Single Supplement: £595 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Wilson Diaz joined by expert local guide Danny Vargus.

This holiday offers a unique opportunity to enjoy Peruvian birding from the Pacific coast near Lima to the unique Manu Biosphere, together with an exploration of Cusco, Aguas Calientes and the ancient city of Machu Picchu, at the very heart of the Inca Empire. We recently extended this tour by five extra nights, allowing us to take more time, see more species and build an unforgettable experience in this wonderful country. The birdlife of Southern Peru is astounding and among our targets are iconic South American species including Humboldt’s Penguin, Inca Tern, Andean Guan and Andean Cock-of-the-Rock as well as some difficult birds such as Cerulean-capped Manakin, Rufous-breasted Antthrush, Diademed Tapaculo and others. We make time for Peruvian culture on this holiday, much of which is concentrated around Cuzco and Aguas Calientes. In this part of the country, Incan influence is particularly strong, and tradition still rules the daily lives of people, who are very proud of their legacy. Machu Picchu itself is an Incan citadel set high in the Andes, a must visit ‘Wonder of the World’ for anyone who comes to Peru and can only truly be appreciated first hand!

NORTHERN PERU Fabulous birding from the Peruvian Pacific to the Andes, with optional Machu Picchu extension.

TUES 7 OCTOBER – WED 22 OCTOBER 2025 Prices from: £6495pp Single Supplement: £425 Max. 12 clients. Leader Wilson Diaz.

Peru is one of the most important birding destinations in the world, containing so many wild and hard-toreach places, that new bird species are still being discovered and described every year! Many areas remain unexplored by birdwatchers, and only recently have some fascinating places, with rich bio-diversity and a large concentration of species, become available to western enthusiasts. Northern Peru is exceptionally good for hummingbirds, and possibilities include Koepcke’s, Reddish, Tawny-bellied and Black-throated Hermit, Fork-tailed Woodnymph, White-chinned Sapphire, Rufous-crested Coquette, Blue-fronted and Green-fronted Lancebills, Violet-fronted Brilliant, Long-tailed Sylph, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Collared Inca, Andean Emerald, Purple-throated and White-bellied Woodstar, Purple-throated Sunangel, Royal Sunangel and not forgetting Marvellous Spatuletail - perhaps the most spectacular hummingbird in the world! Andean Cock-of-the-Rock is another bird once seen, never forgotten and you can also expect a range of tanagers, toucans, raptors, finches, fruiteaters and more in the unspoilt forests. Peru is a wonderful country for any visitor, featuring not only great birding but also breathtaking scenery and an impressive cultural heritage. The people are friendly and courteous and if you want to explore some more, an extension including Machu Picchu can be added on request.

NEW! TRINIDAD, TOBAGO & SAINT LUCIA Wonderful Birding on three very different Caribbean Islands.

SUN 21 APRIL – SAT 4 MAY 2024 SUN 20 APRIL – SAT 3 MAY 2025 Prices from: £6395pp Single Supplement: £945 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Mike Coleman joined by expert local guides.

Join Heatherlea on our updated classic Caribbean holiday combining Trinidad and Tobago with St Lucia, where the birding is excellent. By including Saint Lucia, six further endemics and a number of other Antillean specialities are now available including Saint Lucia Parrot, Saint Lucia Wren, Saint Lucia Oriole, Saint Lucia Black Finch, Saint Lucia Warbler and Antillean Pewee. On Trinidad, we stay at two centres including the famous Asa Wright Centre – an unforgettable destination. Likely species include Tufted Coquette, Barred Antshrike, Violaceous Trogon, Channel-billed Toucan, Golden-headed Manakin, Bearded Bellbird, Moriche Oriole among others. We enjoy Scarlet Ibis coming to roost, Oilbird in Dunstan Cave, seek endemic Trinidadian Piping-guan and visit a secluded beach to watch Leatherback Turtles egg laying. Tobago is a beautiful and laid-back island, and three nights there is a fitting finale to your holiday. We explore the forested areas for specialities including Blue-backed Manakin and White-tailed Sabrewing and visit the jewel of Little Tobago in a glass-bottomed boat to see boobies, frigatebirds, tropicbirds and marine life. Without too much exertion, this carefully planned tour gives you every opportunity to enjoy a kaleidoscope of bird life in a relaxing and enjoyable way.

AMERICAS

NEW! TRANQUIL TRINIDAD

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Go slow in Trinidad at the famous Asa Wright Centre.

TUES 4 NOVEMBER – WED 12 NOVEMBER 2025 Prices from: £5495pp Single Supplement: £350 Max. 12 clients. Leader One from the Heatherlea team joined by expert local guides.

Following two decades of amazing wildlife watching in the Caribbean, join Heatherlea on this new, even more relaxed holiday! We spend the full week on Trinidad - the original birding hotspot in this part of the world incorporating more downtime than ever in the manicured gardens and on the world-famous verandah at the Asa Wright Centre, enjoying the laid-back surroundings of the densely-forested mountains and the colourful activity at the array of bird feeders! During the holiday, there are still day excursions out to all the famous birding spots on the island, so it is a case of all the birds, and a lot of time! We will visit the vast sandflats of the west coast, the long, sandy beaches of the east coast, marshes, tropical forests, Dunstan Cave for the most accessible Oilbirds on the planet, have a night birding trip to see owls and nightjars, and, of course, sip a rum punch on the labrynthine Caroni Swamps marvelling at the constant flow of herons, egrets and Scarlet Ibis coming in to roost - maybe the most special Trinidad moment?

Heatherlea on Trinidad at the world-famous Asa Wright Centre.

Recently renovated, reopened, and ready to entertain, each day at Asa Wright begins with birding from the famous balcony, and many days we will be blissfully happy with ‘lifers’ before breakfast! Birding in the immediate vicinity of Asa Wright is superb, and most days we will birdwatch in the forest close to the Centre, with plenty of time to explore the trails in safety under your own steam. Optional early morning walking can be rewarding, and with dawn just after 6am, and nightfall at 6pm, expect to establish a rhythm around these times. We usually depart on excursions around 8.30 — 9.00 am. In this relaxing environment we can take it easy, with comfortable open-air wildlife viewing, early morning coffee, evening rum punch (not too strong!) and a good choice of appetising food at breakfast and dinner. We have visited this exceptional place many times, and our good relationship with the Centre and their highly experienced guides makes for great fun as well as diverse birding with new species always likely to be seen at any time. tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

NEW! SOUTH-WEST AUSTRALIA Fascinating birding in a rich corner of Australia's largest state.

SUN 6 OCTOBER – WED 16 OCTOBER 2024 Prices from: £5795pp Single Supplement: £485 Max. 12 clients. Leader Barry Embling joined by expert local guides.

Western Australia is a region very much isolated from the rest of the continent by both desert and sea, and as such is of great interest to both birders and the general naturalist. Over 500 bird species have been recorded here, 18 of which are purely endemic to the region, occurring alongside a range of resident, migratory and other sought-after birds. A destination for the global birder, our ‘big 18’ are Carnaby's and Baudin's Black Cockatoo, Western Corella, Western Rosella, Red-capped Parrot, Noisy Scrub-bird, Red-winged Fairy-wren, Western Spinebill, Gilbert’s Honeyeater, Western Wattlebird, Western Bristlebird, Western Field-wren, Western Thornbill, Black-throated Whipbird, Western Shrike-tit, Western Whistler, White-breasted Robin and Red-eared Firetail. A variety of notable seabirds, waders, passerines and other birds are also likely, and we plan to visit the ‘mound’ of the Malleefowl, hoping to glimpse this distinctive bird (the only surviving member of its genus) and perhaps see its unique breeding behaviour. While this is predominantly a birding tour, interesting mammals may include Western Brush and Tammar Wallaby, Short-beaked Echidna and the curious Bilby with plenty else on offer for the all-round wildlife enthusiast.

NEW! QUEENSLAND - AUSTRALIA Fabulous birding and a visit to the Great Barrier Reef.

SAT 22 NOVEMBER – WED 3 DECEMBER 2025 Prices from: £5995pp Single Supplement: £630 Max. 10 clients. Leader One from the Heatherlea team joined by expert local guides.

This outstanding itinerary takes us to some amazingly significant areas, many with World Heritage status.

After starting our tour in Cairns, we head to the Atherton Tablelands, a fertile plateau containing small remnants of protected rainforest before continuing to Lamington National Park. We also visit the Daintree River area and the wet tropics, a region of spectacular scenery containing an almost complete record of the major stages in the evolution of plant life on earth, many of which originated when Australia was still part of Gondwana. Among the special birds (including endemics) we hope to see are Southern Cassowary, Australian Bustard, Lovely Fairy-wren, Superb Fruit-Dove, Sarus Crane, Great-billed Heron, Plumed Whistling-Duck, Pacific Baza, Spotted Harrier, Lesser Sooty Owl, Southern Boobook, Double-eyed Fig-Parrot, Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo, Paleheaded Rosella, Blue-winged Kookaburra, Azure Kingfisher, Fairy Martin, Papuan Frogmouth, Scaly-breasted Lorikeet and Helmeted Friarbird. Likely Mammals and reptiles include Striped Possum, Long-nosed Bandicoot, Musky Rat Kangaroo, Green Ringtail Possum, Red-legged Pademelon, Agile Wallaby, Saltwater Crocodile, Amethystine Python and Common Tree Snake. Another highlight will be our visit to The Great Barrier Reef, the largest, most spectacular coral reef system in the world! Combine with: NEW! QUEENSLAND - AUSTRALIA can be combined with TASMANIA AND SOUTH-EASTERN AUSTRALIA.

TASMANIA AND SOUTH-EASTERN AUSTRALIA A naturalist’s paradise 'Down Under' - a superb highlights tour of Tasmania and SE Australia.

MON 1 DECEMBER – THURS 18 DECEMBER 2025 Prices from: £8395pp Single Supplement: £1030 Max. 10 clients. Leader One from the Heatherlea team joined by expert local guides.

We begin on mainland Australia, covering a variety of habitats within a few hours’ easy drive of Melbourne. Likely birds include Emu, Laughing Kookaburra, Pink-eared Duck, Black-eared Cuckoo, Little Lorikeet, Long-billed Corella, Sulphurcrested Cockatoo, Galah, Brolga, Rufous Bristlebird and Southern Emu-wren. Mammals also feature, with Eastern Grey Kangaroo and perhaps Koala if we are lucky. We also enjoy a night excursion to seek Brush-tailed and Ring-tailed Possum and perhaps Sugar Glider. On our Tasmania leg, we visit exceptional places for a wealth of birding and rare wildlife opportunities. Endemic possibilities include Scrubtit, Tasmanian Scrubwren, Pink and Dusky Robin, Green Rosella, Tasmanian Native Hen, Black Currawong, Tasmanian Thornbill, Strong-billed Honeyeater, Forty-spotted Pardalote and Yellow Wattlebird. On a Southern Ocean pelagic (optional), we may encounter between 20-30 species of tubenose, plus seals, dolphins and whales. Other likely mammals Common Wombat, Tasmanian Pademelon, Southern Brown Bandicoot, Long-nosed Potoroo, Eastern and Spotted-tailed Quoll and both Short-beaked Echidna and bizarre looking Platypus - Australia’s two egg-laying monotreme species. One of Australia’s most threatened and charismatic mammals is Tasmanian Devil, and we have an excellent opportunity to view and photograph these elusive creatures on this tour too. Combine with: TASMANIA AND SOUTHEASTERN AUSTRALIA can be combined with NEW! QUEENSLAND - AUSTRALIA.

BHUTAN

Largely untouched by the modern world, Bhutan is an enigmatic mountain kingdom of high, snowcapped mountains, vast, primeval, lush green forests and crystal-clear rivers intertwined with picturesque villages, mighty dzongs and monasteries. With an abundance of wildlife, this comprehensive tour takes us into forested habitats at different altitudes giving opportunities of around 350 bird species in a rarelyvisited nation. We stay longer at some of the better wildlife locations, with excellent chances of rare and elusive birds including iconic Himalayan Monal, Ward's Trogon, Rufous-vented Laughingthrush, Coralbilled Scimitar Babbler, White-hooded Babbler, Spotted Elachura and perhaps critically endangered White-bellied Heron - one of the rarest birds on Earth! Also likely are Ibisbill, Asian Barred Owlet, Little Forktail, Satyr Tragopan, Snow Pigeon, Blood Pheasant, Fire-tailed Myzornis and plenty more. Rare, sought-after mammals may include Himalayan Black Bear, Common Leopard, Golden Langur, Red Panda and endangered Dhole (Asiatic Wild Dog). There will be cultural highlights too, with visits to the impressive Punakha Dzong and the superb Tharpaling Monastery. Some of the views from mountain passes are some of the best accessible in all the Himalayas – we are certain of a great time in a country often dubbed 'The happiest place in the world'!

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REST OF THE WORLD

Magical birding, wildlife and culture in Bhutan.

FRI 11 APRIL – WED 30 APRIL 2025 Prices from: £7695pp Single Supplement: £495 Max. 12 clients. Leader Chubzang Tangbi joined by one from the Heatherlea team.

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NEW! BORNEO An experience of a lifetime with exciting birding and mammal watching - including Orangutan!

SUN 10 AUGUST – WED 27 AUGUST 2025 Prices from: £7895pp Single Supplement: £1300 Max. 12 clients. Leader from the Heatherlea team joined by expert local guides.

The third largest island in the world, Borneo has some of the oldest rainforests on the planet, home to strange sounds from endemic birds and some of the most endangered and sought-after mammals in Asia. Around 250 bird species, including endemics can be expected on this tour, featuring a range of hornbills, trogons, broadbills, barbets, woodpeckers, frogmouths, owls, partridges, pittas, spiderhunters, flowerpeckers, sunbirds and raptors. Without doubt, the most sought-after mammal of Borneo is the Orangutan, and we spend longer at the better sites, further improving our chances by covering four different locations where they may be found naturally. Other mammals may include Borneo Pygmy Elephant, Sumatran Rhinoceros, Leopard Cat, Bornean Slow Loris, Lesser Oriental Chevrotain, Proboscis Monkey, Maroon Langur, Müller’s Gibbon and Sunda Flying Lemur. And with our accommodation at the heart of the rainforest we are always close to wildlife, staying in well-maintained lodges with excellent reputations, some of which have won global awards for their sustainable approach to ecotourism.

BOTSWANA A fantastic safari including the Okavango Delta and Victoria Falls.

FRI 29 NOVEMBER – SUN 15 DECEMBER 2024 Prices from: £6995pp Single Supplement: £295 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Holly Page joined by expert local guides.

Straddling the interface of two biomes - the Zambezian to the north and the Kalahari-Highveld to the south, Botswana is home to a plethora of wildlife and as such is one of the most desirable safari destinations in Africa.

Starting in the famous Moremi Game Reserve on the eastern fringes of the Okavango Delta, our journey follows the Khwai River into the Mababe Depression where Leopard, Serval and Lion are common predators and we enjoy good birding at the riverside. We also visit the famous Dombo Hippo pools and the desert-like landscapes of Chobe National Park, where we have good chances of Cheetah, Wild Dog and Hyena. Birding is excellent too throughout, with around 600 species recorded, of which 415 are residents and key targets including Slaty Egret, Wattled Crane, Kori Bustard, Rosy-throated Longclaw and Bat Hawk. On this unique safari holiday for both birds and big game, our luxury, mobile safari tents come with us as we travel, giving us access to some wonderful wildlife destinations as well as stunning sunrise/sunset opportunities. Our tour ends in style beside the Zambezi River at Victoria Falls, where we seek rare and difficult species and of course enjoy the spectacle of the falls themselves - one of the seven wonders of the world!

CHINA – SICHUAN & BEIJING Birding and Culture on this tour of a lifetime!

THURS 25 APRIL – FRI 17 MAY 2024 Prices from: £6295pp Single Supplement: £350 Max. 12 clients. Leader Tang Jun joined by one from the Heatherlea team.

China is a vast country with an extremely varied mix of habitats, containing the broadest range of sub-tropical habitat in the world. Because of its sheer size and topography, it is abundant in birdlife ranking behind only a few South American countries in terms of number of recorded species. This tour concentrates on the province of Sichuan, bordered to the west by Tibet and to the east by the Red Basin, an area holding more than half of Chinese endemic species and offering a wonderful mixture of Palearctic and Oriental birds. There are some fabulous birds on offer, including Firethroat, Snowy-cheeked and Red-winged Laughing-thrush, Temminck’s Tragopan, White-eared, Blue-eared, Blood and Koklass Pheasant, Fire-capped, Père David's, Grey-crested, White-browed, Sichuan and Rufous-vented Tit, Golden Bush-Robin, Gould’s Sunbird, Chinese Monal, Snow Pigeon, Tibetan Snowcock, Severtzov’s Grouse, Verreaux’s Monal Partridge, Snow Partridge, Himalayan Rubythroat, Przevalski’s Nuthatch, Sichuan Jay, Severtzov’s, White-browed and Crested Tit Warbler, Tibetan Lark, White-rumped and Rufous-necked Snowfinch, Tibetan Wagtail and Kessler’s Thrush. China has always held a fascination for Western travellers, and in Beijing we take time to visit the Great Wall, the Summer Palace and Forbidden City, while in Xi’an we see the world-famous Terracotta Warriors on this birding and cultural tour of a lifetime!

NEW! CHINA – QINGHAI PROVINCE & TIBETAN PLATEAU

REST OF THE WORLD

Birding 'The Roof of the World'!

SUN 8 JUNE – WED 25 JUNE 2025 Prices from: £6595pp Single Supplement: £550 Max. 12 clients. Leader Tang Jun joined by one from the Heatherlea team.

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Often described as ‘The Roof of the World’, the Tibetan Plateau has long held a fascination for western birders, and we are delighted to offer this spectacular tour incorporating major birding sites there and also in Xining, the capital of Qinghai province in central China. Travel during summer, when birds are at their most active and the weather mild, we begin in Xining progressing to Chaka, the Rubber Mountain, Er La Shan Pass, Nangqên, and finally Yushu where we transfer by air to Lhasa, the centre of the Tibetan Buddhist world for over a thousand years. There are many endemic and localised species to look for, such as Szechenyi's Monal Partridge, Tibetan and Himalayan Snowcock, Tibetan Eared-Pheasant, Prince Henry's Laughing-thrush, Giant Babax, Black-necked Crane, Ibisbill, Tibetan Sandgrouse, Tibetan and Mongolian Lark, Pink-tailed Finch, Père David's, Henri's and Blanford’s Snowfinch and many more. We also devote time for mammals, including the rare and beautiful Snow Leopard and take in some cultural highlights including the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple on this truly memorable tour.

tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

NEW! ETHIOPIA A brand new tour to one of the most rewarding birding destinations on the African continent!

SUN 27 APRIL – THURS 8 MAY 2025 Prices from: £6795pp Single Supplement: £350 Max. 12 clients. Leader One from the Heatherlea team joined by expert local guides.

Ethiopia is one of the most productive and rewarding destinations on the African continent for the wildlife enthusiast, and on this comprehensive tour we try to see most of the important birds and mammals. Among our chief birding targets will be endemic Wattled Ibis, Blue-winged Goose, Harwood’s Francolin, Spot-breasted Lapwing, Yellow-fronted Parrot, Abyssinian Longclaw, Abyssinian Catbird, Ruspoli’s Turaco, Stresemann’s Bushcrow, White-tailed Swallow, Black-headed Siskin, Ankober Serin and others. And with over 850 bird species recorded in Ethiopia, we can be sure of great birding daily as we travel around sites including Addis Ababa, Awash National Park, the hot springs of Doho, Yabelo and the Bale Mountains. We try and see important mammals none more so than endangered Ethiopian Wolf, through with an estimated population of less than 500, they can be difficult to find! Also possible are Mountain Nyala, African Warthog, Bale, Colobus and Grivet Monkey, Menelik’s Bushbuck, Beisa Oryx, Kudu, Soemmerring's Gazelle, Swayne’s Hartebeest, Olive and Hamadryas Baboon, Gerenuk, Dik-dak and Starck’s Hare on this tour full of variety.

NEW! GAMBIA A great introduction to African birding - now with 3 centres!

TUES 19 NOVEMBER – FRI 29 NOVEMBER 2024 TUES 25 NOVEMBER – FRI 5 DECEMBER 2025 Prices from: £3595pp Single Supplement: £275 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Ian Ford joined by expert local guides.

Gambia is such a superb option for British birders, offering the nearest rainforest jungle to the UK, easy access from London and some great locations to watch birdlife. This holiday is a straightforward introduction to African birding, and from three well positioned centres we can explore a wide variety of habitats at our leisure. We spend time around the coastal strip and as part of the tour, enjoy a two-hour canoe trip through the mangrove swamp, with up to five species of kingfisher possible. Likely species include African Darter, Hamerkop, Black Egret, Hooded Vulture, Martial Eagle, White-faced Scops Owl, Red-billed and Grey Hornbill, White-headed Helmet Shrike, Senegal Parrot, Abyssinian Roller, Senegal Coucal, Long-tailed Sunbird, Violet Turaco, Orange-cheeked Waxbill, Oxpecker, African Paradise Flycatcher, Green Crombec, Snow-crowned Robin-chat, Fanti Saw-wing, Red-bellied Flycatcher and plenty of others. As usual, we shall be keeping an eye out for other wildlife of the area including some spectacular butterflies and reptiles such as Nile Monitor Lizard and Green Vervet and Red Colobus Monkey on this rewarding, and generally relaxing birding holiday!

INDIA – GOA From the Konkan Coast to the Western Ghats.

SAT 16 NOVEMBER – SUN 1 DECEMBER 2024 SAT 15 NOVEMBER – SUN 30 NOVEMBER 2025 Prices from: £4395pp Single Supplement: £425 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Toby Green joined by expert local guide Leio De Souza.

Located on the southwest coast, Goa is India's smallest state by area and is geographically separated from the Deccan highlands by the Western Ghats. One of the richest regions in the country for birdlife, boasting a huge variety despite its small size, we visit all the key habitats and staying at just three centres, relatively little travel is involved. Goa is an ideal choice for the first-time birding visitor to India, with a well-developed infrastructure and comfortable weather allowing for a flexible itinerary and time to search for many of the 28 endemics of the Western Ghats. Likely on this tour are Malabar Whistling Thrush, Malabar Barbet, White-bellied Blue Flycatcher, Malabar Trogon, Sri Lanka Frogmouth, Blue-capped Rock Thrush, Velvet-fronted Nuthatch, Heart-spotted Woodpecker, Crimson-fronted Barbet, Black-rumped Flameback, Verditer Flycatcher, Asian Fairy Bluebird and Golden-fronted Leafbird, alongside some key Asian migrants. In wetlands and on the coasts, we look for Terek and Marsh Sandpiper, Pacific Golden Plover, Lesser and Greater Sand-plover, Painted Snipe, plus Blue-tailed, Chestnut-headed and Little Green Kingfisher in a species tally likely to exceed 200 birds.

INDIA – BIRDS, TIGERS & THE TAJ MAHAL

This holiday is an enjoyable combination of mammal watching, birding and sightseeing, as we pass through fascinating cities, pastoral landscapes and protected forests on a splendid introduction to the wildlife and culture of Northern India. We begin at two of the best birding sites in the north Indian Plains - Bharatpur, India’s most famous bird sanctuary and the Chambal River which has one of the most healthy river environments. Birding is varied and exciting, with wetland birds including Sarus Crane, Black-necked and Painted Stork, Indian Spot-billed and Comb Duck, Black Bittern and Indian Skimmer likely, alongside Indian Scops-owl, Orange-headed Thrush and Siberian Rubythroat in surrounding cover. Next, we visit the magnificent Taj Mahal and Red Fort in Agra, before driving back to Delhi for an internal flight to Jabalpur, where we can get to the Bandhavgarh National Park avoiding a long road journey. Bandhavgarh is the most reliable reserve for Tiger sightings in India, and with six exclusive game drives in jeeps we have excellent chances of a memorable encounter.

Other mammals may include Leopard, Jackal, Jungle Cat, Grey Langur, Rhesus Macaque, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Barking Deer and if lucky Sloth Bear and Dhole (Indian Wild Dog).

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An exciting birding, wildlife and cultural tour of northern India featuring key experiences.

MON 3 MARCH – THURS 13 MARCH 2025 Prices from: £4595pp Single Supplement: £460 Max. 12 clients. Leader James Champion joined by expert local guide Leio De Souza.

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NEW! JAPAN Winter birding in an East Asian wildlife hotspot.

DECEMBER 2025

Prices from: TBC Max. 12 clients. Leader Mike Coleman joined by expert local guides.

A fascinating destination for birders, and at this time of year migratory birds arrive from Russia to spend the winter in Japan’s forested mountains, lagoons, rice fields and along the varied shores of the islands.

Demonstrating a classic case of isolation and evolution in action, the Japanese archipelago supports a range of varied and endemic birdlife. On this tour we anticipate several species of crane, including dancing and displaying Red-crowned Crane, enigmatic Blakiston’s Fish Owl, Copper Pheasant, gigantic Steller’s Sea Eagle, rare and localised Ryukyu Minivet, Japanese Grosbeak, Black-faced Spoonbill, Saunders’s Gull, Japanese Wagtail, Japanese Woodpecker and Japanese Accentor. Also likely are a wide variety of eastern passerines including Pale, Dusky and White’s Thrush, Grey, Meadow, Rustic, Chestnut-eared and Black-faced Bunting plus Daurian Redstart, Bull-headed Shrike, Varied Tit, Japanese Pygmy Woodpecker, Japanese Bush Warbler, Pallas’ and Long-tailed Rosefinch. Exploring the coasts, we may see Harlequin, White-winged Scoter, Baikal Teal and Falcated Duck, Slaty-backed, Glaucous-winged and Vega Gull, Rhinoceros Auklet, Ancient Murrelet and Spectacled Guillemot. We also visit the Japanese Alps, where the Japanese Macaque has learned the benefits of the onsen (natural hot spring), and we also have chances of two more endemic mammals - Japanese Serow and Japanese Squirrel. We may see Ezo Red Fox, Sika Deer and Japanese Raccoon Dog too, and with such a varied landscape and unique culture too, we experience a little of everything on this delightful tour.

KENYAN ULTIMATE BIRDING TOUR A Massive birdlist including many East African endemics.

WED 27 NOVEMBER – WED 11 DECEMBER 2024 SUN 30 NOVEMBER – SUN 14 DECEMBER 2025 Prices from: £6195pp Single Supplement: £785 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Chris Rodger joined by expert local guides.

Kenya has the second highest birdlist of any African country with over 1000 species recorded, and on this tour, we expect to see around 450 of these including sought-after Kenyan and regional endemics. We explore the soda and freshwater lakes at Naivasha, Nakuru and Baringo, high and low altitude grasslands, bush and savannah woodlands including the fabulous Samburu, mountain ecosystems and escarpments including Mount Kenya and the pristine Aberdares plus tropical habitats within the Kakamega Forest. Birding targets include Jackson's Francolin, Snowy Barbet, Aberdare Cisticola, Grant’s Wood Hoopoe, Turner’s Eremomela, Sharpe's Longclaw and plenty more. Kenya is also considered to be the ‘best territory’ in Africa for some other birds, such as Somali Ostrich, Black-faced Sandgrouse, Olive Ibis, Somali Bee-eater, Jackson’s Hornbill, Taita Fiscal, Grey-crested Helmetshrike, Hartlaub’s Turaco and Moorland Francolin. Animal wildlife may not be our main focus, but in Kenya it is unavoidable and of course still of interest. Mammals will probably be seen on most days, perhaps including the big five of Lion, Leopard, African Buffalo, African Elephant and Black Rhino!

MOROCCO A big birdlist from the Atlantic and Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert.

SUN 24 MARCH – WED 3 APRIL 2024 SUN 23 MARCH – WED 2 APRIL 2025 Prices from: £2395pp Single Supplement: £180 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) John Muddeman joined by expert local guides.

An eleven-day delight in North Africa covering the birdlife of desert, mountain, coast and wetlands, alongside the spectacle of spring migration from Africa to Europe. Morocco has numerous specialities and nearendemics only found in the south of the Western Palearctic, and the country could have been designed purely for birding! The variety of habitats includes stony deserts (hamada), sand dunes, lakes, rivers, estuaries and the immense Atlas Mountains, where we drive to around 2600m for specialist birds. Among our targets are Houbara Bustard, Bald Ibis, Cream-coloured Courser, Lanner, Black-bellied, Spotted and Crowned Sandgrouse, Pharoah Eagle Owl, Egyptian Nightjar, Levaillant’s Woodpecker, Pale Crag Martin, Tristam’s Warbler, Lesser Short-toed, Thick-billed, Bar-tailed, Desert, Hoopoe and Temminck’s Horned Lark, Moussier’s Redstart, Crimson-winged and Trumpeter Finch plus a range of other resident species and passage migrants.

With so much on offer, Morrocco is a destination every birder should visit at least once in their lifetime!

NAMIBIA

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Fantastic wildlife and landscapes for an exciting African adventure.

SUN 1 SEPTEMBER – WED 18 SEPTEMBER 2024 Prices from: £6895pp Single Supplement: £225 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Ian Ford joined by expert local guides.

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An excellent choice for visiting birders, Namibia has a splendid combination of exceptional and accessible species, abundant game, superb scenery and excellent infrastructure. Although the country possesses just one true endemic - Dune Lark, there are several near-endemics easier to find here than elsewhere, including Herero Chat, Rüppell’s Korhaan, Gray’s Lark, Damara Rockrunner, White-tailed Shrike, Bare-cheeked Babbler, Rüppell’s Parrot, Carp’s Black Tit and Hartlaub’s Francolin. Other key targets as we explore include Blue Crane, Northern Black Korhaan, Ludwig’s and Kori Bustard, Hartlaub’s Spurfowl, Double-banded, Temminck's and Burchell's Courser, Secretarybird, Southern Pale Chanting Goshawk, Namaqua and Double-banded Sandgrouse, Damara Tern, Violet Wood-Hoopoe, Rufous-eared Warbler and Tractrac Chat. We visit some of the premium game watching destinations in the country, such as the famous water holes at Okaukuejo, Namutoni and Halali. All can attract large densities of mammals, including African Elephant, Black Rhino, Lion, Leopard, Cheetah, Spotted Hyena, Black-backed Jackal, Wildebeest, Black-faced Impala and Blesbok. Damara Dik-Dik is another target, and we have chances of rare and endangered Sable and Roan Antelope on this superb African adventure! tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

NEPAL A wealth of birds and mammals in early spring.

TUES 5 MARCH – MON 18 MARCH 2024 Prices from: £5295pp Single Supplement: £595 Max. 12 clients. Leader Suchit Basnet joined by Mike Coleman with over 9 clients.

Nepal is a fantastic country for wildlife, boasting a checklist of 885 bird species and 210 mammals. Although the country is often associated with the high peaks of the Himalayas, elevations vary from the highest point on earth to near sea level in the Terai region, and much of the best wildlife may actually be found at lower altitudes. We focus on the best lowland habitats, rich in both mammals and birds and visit the Chitwan National Park and Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve – two of the Nepal’s finest wildlife sites! Above all we take our time to thoroughly explore both places staying for four nights at each, while also spending two days birding in the Kathmandu Valley driving to the 2,740-metre summit of Phulchowki where we find many new species. When in Nepal, comfort is an important consideration. Long drives on uneven roads can be tiring and flights can easily be disrupted by poor weather. We travel by road in a medium-sized bus, and by a variety of methods inside the reserves including 4WD jeeps, boats and sometimes elephants! An important feature is our internal flight saving a full day of road travel, and we include birding days close to Kathmandu at both ends of the tour which gives added insurance against adverse conditions.

We finish with an optional extension, which includes a thrilling Mount Everest panoramic flight, plus a fascinating visit to some of Kathmandu's famous monumental sites. This final part of the tour is often regarded as a highlight by participants.

NEW! BIRDS & MAMMALS OF WEST NEPAL Wildlife of the Grasslands, Forests & Hills of Nepal.

TUES 4 MARCH – TUES 18 MARCH 2025 Prices from: £5395pp Single Supplement: £650 Max. 12 clients. Leader Suchit Basnet joined by another from the Heatherlea team with over 9 clients.

This new three-centre holiday highlights the wealth of wildlife to be found in the grasslands, ancient forests and foothills of the Himalayas, as we visit three distinct geographical areas within this wonderful, friendly country. Internal flights help to limit the travel time between two remarkable National Parks – Bardia and Chitwan, and we explore both thoroughly, on foot and in jeeps. We hope to see plenty of Asian Mammals and though they can be challenging targets, we have good chances on a series of safari and night drives. Possibilities include Bengal Tiger (around 200 adults are known at be present between Bardra and Chitwan), Asian Elephant, Leopard, Greater One-horned Rhino, Sloth Bear, Gaur, Rhesus and Assamese Macaque and Terai Langur Monkey, Hoary-bellied Squirrel, Northern Palm Squirrel, Asiatic Golden Jackal, Indian Grey Mongoose and endangered Swamp Deer. Around 300 bird species are also likely, including Spiny Babbler (the only endemic in Nepal), Ibisbill, Slender-billed Vulture, Wallcreeper, Great Slaty Woodpecker, Mottled Owl, Great Hornbill, Fire-tailed Sunbird, Long-tailed Minivet, Whitetailed Nuthatch and Orange-bellied Leafbird while there is also a chance of encountering more elusive species such as Cutia, Kalij Pheasant and Black-faced Leaf Warbler. A busy tour for all wildlife lovers!

NEW! OMAN Birding at the crossroads of three continents.

THURS 23 OCTOBER – SAT 8 NOVEMBER 2025

Prices from: TBC Max. 8 clients Leaders Stephen Menzie & Mark Warren.

At the edge of the Western Palearctic, the Sultanate of Oman is located at a crossroads between Europe, Africa and Asia. As a result, the birdlife is both diverse and surprisingly abundant given much of the country is made up of desert, and on this comprehensive tour we spread our time around three coastlines. Exploring a variety of habitats from Muscat, the capital in the north, through the Al Hajjar Mountain range to the wader filled east coast and Masirah Island, briefly entering the ‘empty quarter’ and finishing in the Dhofar region in the far south.

The list of likely birds on this journey is remarkable, with Sooty Falcon, Socotra Cormorant, Jouanin’s Petrel, Persian Shearwater, Oriental Honey Buzzard, Lappet-faced Vulture, Verreaux’s Eagle, Arabian and Sand Partridge, Crab Plover, Cream-coloured Courser, Spotted Thick-Knee, Lichtenstein’s, Crowned, Spotted and Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse, Forbes-Watson’s Swift, Bruce’s Green Pigeon, Nile Valley Sunbird, Grey Hypocolius, Hume’s and Arabian Wheatear, Arabian Warbler, Arabian Golden-winged Grosbeak, Yemen Serin and many more possible, alongside Palearctic migrants and middle-eastern rarities. Oman recently hit the headlines among western birders with the discovery of a new species to science in 2013 - the Omani Owl. One of five possible owl species on this tour, we have deliberately extended our itinerary, assigning extra days to locations with the most birding potential and more time to recover after (optional) owling excursions.

SOUTH AFRICA – A BIRDING TOUR OF THE WESTERN & EASTERN CAPE A great birding and wildlife tour in a wide range of habitats.

TUES 28 AUGUST – SUN 14 SEPTEMBER 2025

Prices from: TBC South Africa is a large country which hosts an abundant and diverse range of wildlife, and on this predominantly birding tour our key objective is to amass a big birdlist, including many of the 34 national endemics. Our carefully planned itinerary takes in a range of habitats in three key climatic regions, beginning around Cape Peninsula in the Fynbos. Key birds include Cape Sugarbird, Cape Rockjumper, Ground Woodpecker, African Penguin and if the weather is suitable, we take a brilliant pelagic trip for seabirds and cetaceans. From the Cape, we explore locations to the north for desirable species including Black Harrier and Southern Black Korhaan, with rocky and gravel plain specialists soon following in the Tankwa Karoo. Time spent in the Bontebok National Park and De Hoop Nature Reserve will hopefully give us iconic species including Blue Crane, Denham’s Bustard and Cape Vulture, before we head east into The Garden Route National Park and more verdant surroundings. The Addo Elephant National Park will provide an exciting climax to our holiday, with day and night safaris for mammals perhaps including Lion, Leopard, Cheetah, Caracal, Spotted Hyena, Black Rhinoceros, Aardwolf, Honey Badger and of course some new birds.

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REST OF THE WORLD

Max. 12 clients. Leader from the Heatherlea team joined by expert local guides.

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NEW! SRI LANKA A comprehensive tour including birds, mammals and culture.

SAT 11 JANUARY – TUES 28 JANUARY 2025 Prices from: £4595pp Single Supplement: £750 Max. 12 clients. Leader Mike Coleman joined by expert local guides.

This fantastic holiday around the friendly tropical island of Sri Lanka is ideal both for serious birders who wish to focus on the endemics, and also more general enthusiasts who will appreciate the comprehensive overview of all wildlife. We try and see all of the 33 endemics, including Sri Lanka Spurfowl, Sri Lanka Green Pigeon, Sri Lanka Hanging Parrot, Green-billed Coucal, Sri Lanka Chestnut-backed Owlet, Sri Lanka Magpie, Sri Lanka Scimitar-babbler, Sri Lanka Spot-winged Thrush and the other 25! The daily birding here is superb, and among the resident and overwintering birds we may also see are Indian Pitta, Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher, Crested Serpent Eagle, Grey-bellied Cuckoo, Crested Tree-swift and Malabar Pied Hornbill to name a few. Another element of our tour will be a series of safaris in four National Parks, giving great chances to find sought-after mammals. A close encounter with Leopard might be the mammal highlight, and we hope to see Asian Elephant, Golden Jackal, Sloth Bear, Toque Macaque, Jungle Cat, Crested Porcupine and shy Red Slender Loris. We also take time to visit some of the most impressive cultural sites including the Dambulla Golden Rock Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There is an optional extension to take boat trips into the Indian Ocean to see cetaceans with Sperm, Bryde’s and Fin Whale all possible, plus Orca, various dolphins and very possibly a sighting of the world’s largest living creature – Blue Whale!

NEW! TANZANIA Birding and Big Game including visits to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

TUES 29 APRIL – FRI 9 MAY 2025 Prices from: £5595pp Single Supplement: £545 Max. 12 clients. Leader Pete Cosgrove joined by expert local guides.

Tanzania is known for its vast wilderness and protected areas. This new tour takes you to some of the world's most iconic wildlife destinations as we follow a fascinating route filled with a good array of habitats and specialist species including endemic birds and key African mammals. Two of the most famous locations are the plains of Serengeti National Park, a safari mecca populated by African Elephant, Lion, Leopard, African Buffalo, Black Rhino – aka the ‘big 5’, and the majestic Ngorongoro Crater, one of the wonders of Africa and a 'must visit' location. Other key sites include Lake Manyara, Tarangire National Park and we should also see Mount Kilimanjaro in fine weather. Looking forward to good birding, likely are Tanzania Red-billed Hornbill, Fischer’s Lovebird, Usambiro Barbet and Karamoja Apalis alongside iconic African birds such as Grey Crowned Crane, Secretarybird, Kori and Black-bellied Bustard, Temminck’s Courser, Crowned and Martial Eagle, Brown Snake Eagle, Pygmy Falcon, Woodland Kingfisher, Saddle-billed Stork, Goliath Heron, Great Painted Snipe, Southern Ground Hornbill, Black Coucal, Bare-faced Go-away-bird, Abyssinian Scimitarbill, Slate-coloured Boubou, Rosy-breasted Longclaw, Steel Blue Whydah and plenty of others. A true feast of African wildlife!

NEW! UZBEKISTAN & KYRGYZSTAN A journey through the heart of the Great Silk Road.

SAT 8 JUNE – SAT 22 JUNE 2024 Prices from: £5195pp Single Supplement: £425 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Mike Coleman joined by expert local guide.

This new and unique Heatherlea holiday will explore the rich splendour of Uzbekistan and the rugged beauty of Kyrgyzstan, all at a relaxed pace. We stay in comfortable accommodation throughout, and travel between areas via various modes of transport including train – just watch as the impressive, open landscape rolls past! We spend time in a variety of habitats from high mountains to deserts, with a huge variety of butterflies, unusual dragonflies and some very special birds available. These include Lammergeier, Ibisbill, Palla’s Gull, White-tailed Rubythroat, Altai and Brown Accentor, Güldenstädt’s Redstart, White-crowned Penduline-Tit, Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Long-tailed Shrike, Rufousnaped, White-browed and Yellow-breasted Tit, Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, Hume’s Lark, Persian Nuthatch, Finsch’s and Variable Wheatear, White-throated Robin, White-capped Bunting, Mongolian Desert Finch and the enigmatic Pander’s Ground Jay. A tour designed to appeal to those who enjoy a mix of birding, general wildlife, unique culture and history, awesome landscapes, and friendly locals. Without doubt, an exciting new addition to our calendar!

VIETNAM

REST OF THE WORLD

A comprehensive tour covering endemics, near-endemics and other speciality birds of southern and central regions.

SAT 23 NOVEMBER – FRI 13 DECEMBER 2024 Prices from: £5895pp Single Supplement: £495 Max. 12 clients. Leader (2024) Mike Coleman, joined by expert local guide.

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Vietnam is attracting more and more attention as a birding destination, and its unique and exotic avifauna of over 850 species make it an enticing country to visit. Boasting numerous endemics and near-endemics, we concentrate on key birding sites in the southern and central regions and you can expect to see around 350 species. In the south, important tracts of lowland evergreen and semi-evergreen forest at Cát Tiên National Park should give us a variety of pheasants, pittas, woodpeckers, broadbills, babblers and much more. The Montane evergreen forests on the à L t Plateau are home to several endemics and many distinctive local subspecies, while in central Vietnam we have chances of some truly rare and difficult birds, perhaps including recently discovered Chestnut-eared Laughing-thrush. Other uncommon possibilities include Rufousthroated and Green-legged Partridge, Silver Pheasant, Hodgson’s Frogmouth, Austen’s Brown Hornbill, Blue, Blue-rumped and Bar-bellied Pitta, Sooty Babbler, Rufous-faced Warbler, Limestone Leaf-warbler, Grey-headed Parrotbill and Black-crowned Barwing, the latter only discovered in 1996. We also take some time at the beginning and end with a little orientation and sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon), though exceptional birding is of course the key focus of the tour. tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

COMING SOON…!

Here at Heatherlea HQ we are always planning exciting new trips! Here are a selection of new tours we are currently developing. Look out for full details on our website soon or register your interest and we will contact you with further details when available.

WHALES & WILDLIFE OF NORTHERN NORWAY A winter cetacean spectacular!

November 2024 BIRDING THE NETHERLANDS – A DUTCH WINTER SPECTACULAR A tour dedicated to wintering specialities found in the polders, dunes, waterways and heathlands of one of our closest European neighbours!

December 2024 BIRDING THE NETHERLANDS IN JUNE A Dutch breeding bird Spectacular!

June 2025 LESSER ANTILLIES ADVENTURE A 6 island tour to Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Lucia, Grenada, Dominica and St. Vincent.

January 2026 MADAGASCAR Heatherlea's first departure to one of the world’s greatest wildlife destinations.

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HOW TO BOOK Once you have found the tour to suit you, then please drop us an email at info@heatherlea.co.uk to confirm availability, or you can submit a booking request by completing our online enquiry form, or contact our office.

ASSAM – LAND OF THE RHINO! Birds, mammals and the natural habitat within the state of Assam, India

February 2026

We will confirm your place and issue a booking form and a copy of our Terms and Conditions. We will then request a deposit payment to secure your reservation, and this can be done by one of following methods:-

HEATHERLEA BIRDING & WILDLIFE HOLIDAYS

• Debit card – this can be done over the phone by contacting our office 0n 01479 821248.

• Bank transfer – email us for account details. This method is free and easy to do. Once you have set Heatherlea Birdwatching up as a payee on your online banking system, its then easy to pay any future payments by this method.

• Alternatively, you can complete and sign a booking form and send, together with correct deposit payment cheque made payable to Heatherlea Birdwatching, to our office address.

When we receive your booking form and deposit, we will issue your holiday confirmation letter, contact form, and Tour Information Pack. For overseas tours including a flight, we will also issue an ATOL Certificate.

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HEATHERLEA 2024 HOLIDAY CALENDAR DATES

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

SCOTTISH ISLANDS

OVERSEAS

and other mainland UK holidays 1 Feb – 5 Feb

Birders Blast

5 Feb – 9 Feb 9 Feb – 13 Feb

Birders Blast Birders Blast

13 Feb – 17 Feb 17 Feb – 24 Feb 24 Feb – 2 March

Birders Blast Highland Winter Birding NEW! Scottish Winter Specialities

2 March – 9 March

Highlands and the Aberdeenshire Coast

NEW! Spain in Early Spring Sat 2 March – Sat 9 March Nepal Tues 5 March – Mon 18 March

9 March – 16 March

Highlands and the West Coast NEW! Birding in Footsteps of Jacobites Highland Birding in March Highlands & Ardnamurchan

Camargue Sat 9 March – Sat 16 March NEW! Finland & Norway in Winter Wed 20 March – Mon 25 March NEW! Cuba incl Havana Thurs 21 March – Thurs 2 April

NEW! Highlands & East Coast Birding Highlands & Ardnamurchan Spring into Scotland Scottish Highlands in Early Spring Spring into Scotland

Morocco Sun 24 March – Wed 3 April

16 March – 23 March

23 March – 30 March 30 March – 6 April

HEATHERLEA BIRDING & WILDLIFE HOLIDAYS

6 April – 13 April

Costa Rica with Easy Walking Sat 3 Feb – Sun 18 Feb Norfolk & Suffolk in Winter Sat 10 Feb – Sat 17 Feb

Forest of Dean & Somerset Levels Sat 24 Feb – Sat 2 March

Cyprus Fri 5 April – Fri 12 April Croatia Sat 6 April – Sat 13 April

13 April – 20 April

Highlands and Skye Scottish Highlands in Early Spring

Cornwall in Spring Thurs 18 April – Thurs 25 April

20 April – 27 April

Highlands and Skye

Isles of Scilly in Spring Fri 26 April – Thurs 2 May

27 April – 4 May

NEW! Spring Migration in the Highlands

4 May – 11 May

Birding the Highlands in May

North Ron and Orkney in Spring for birders Sat 4 May – Fri 10 May

11 May – 18 May

Highlands and Corncrake

18 May – 25 May

Birding the Highlands in May

25 May – 1 June

High Season across the Highlands

1 June – 8 June

NEW! Highlands & Ailsa Craig

8 June – 15 June

The Outer Limits in Summer

15 June – 22 June

Highlands & Orkney

22 June – 29 June

Highland Wildlife in Early Summer

Outer Hebrides in Spring Sat 11 May – Fri 17 May North Ron and Orkney in Spring for birders Sat 11 May – Fri 17 May Shetland in Spring for birders Sat 11 May – Sat 18 May Mull, Iona and the Treshnish Isles Tue 14 May – Sat 18 May Outer Hebrides in Spring Sat 18 May – Fri 24 May Birding the North Coast 500 Sat 18 May – Sat 25 May Shetland Island Explorer Sat 18 May – Sat 25 May Sussex, Hampshire & Kent in Spring Sat 18 May – Sat 25 May Islands on the Edge Sat 25 May – Sat 1 June Orkney Island Explorer Sat 25 May – Sat 1 June Shetland Island Explorer Sat 25 May – Sat 1 June South Wales in Summer Sat 1 June – Sat 8 June Peak District, Yorkshire & Norfolk Coast Sun 2 June – Sun 9 June Islands on the Edge Sat 8 Jun – Sat 15 Jun Orkney Island Explorer Sat 8 Jun – Sat 15 Jun Wildlife of Argyll & Inner Hebridean Islands Sat 8 June – Sat 15 June North Wales in Summer Sun 9 June – Sun 16 June Inner Hebrides Fri 21 June – Fri 28 June Northwest Scotland Explorer Sat 22 June – Fri 28 June Ultimate Outer Hebrides Sat 6 Jul – Mon 15 Jul

29 June – 6 July 6 July – 13 July 13 July – 20 July

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Butterflies, Dragons & Birds Eagles, Divers and Dotterel Eagles, Divers and Dotterel Highlands and Wester Ross

tel: 01479 821248

email: info@heatherlea.co.uk

Coll & Tiree in Summer Mon 8 July – Sat 13 July Shetland Wildlife in Summer Sat 13 July – Sat 20 July

web: www.heatherlea.co.uk

Spain - Extremadura Sat 13 April – Sat 20 April Spain – Catalonia and south-east Aragon Wed 17 April – Thurs 25 April Lesvos Wed 17 April – Wed 24 April Georgia Sat 20 April – Mon 29 April NEW! Trinidad, Tobago & St Lucia Sun 21 April – Sat 4 May China – Sichuan & Beijing Thurs 25 April – Fri 17 May Mallorca Sat 27 April – Sat 4 May Armenia Sat 4 May – Wed 15 May Estonia in Spring Sun 5 May – Sun 12 May Bulgaria and Northern Greece Sat 11 May – Mon 20 May Finland- Late Spring Birding Wed 15 May – Tues 21 May

Aberdeen to the Arctic Tues 28 May – Thurs 6 June

NEW! Madeira Tues 4 June – Sun 9 June Romania & the Danube Delta Tues 4 June – Tues 11 June NEW! Uzbekistan & Kyrgyzstan Sat 8 June – Sat 22 June

NEW! South East Brazil – The Atlantic Rainforest Tues 18 June – Thurs 4 July

Iceland in Summer Mon 8 July – Mon 15 July

DATES

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

SCOTTISH ISLANDS

OVERSEAS

and other mainland UK holidays 20 July – 27 July

Highland Mammals & More..

Highland Wildlife in High Summer

27 July – 3 Aug 3 Aug – 10 Aug 10 Aug – 17 Aug 17 Aug – 24 Aug 24 Aug – 31 Aug

Birds & Mammals feat Muck & Eigg Highlands and the Outer Hebs Highlands Birding in Late Summer Autumn in the Highlands with Easy Walking Autumn in the Highlands with Easy Walking Highland Migration by Land & Sea!

31 Aug – 7 Sept

Autumn Migration in the Highlands

7 Sept – 14 Sept

The ‘Outer Limits’ Adventure Highland Autumn Explorer

14 Sept – 21 Sept

The ‘Outer Limits’ Adventure

21 Sept – 28 Sept

The ‘Outer Limits’ Adventure

28 Sept – 5 Oct

Highlands and Skye in Autumn

5 Oct – 12 Oct

Raptors & Grouse

12 Oct – 19 Oct

Highland Autumn Birding

19 Oct – 26 Oct

Scottish Wildlife in Late Autumn

Lancashire & the Wirral Mon 21 Oct – Sun 27 Oct Islay and Jura Sat 19 Oct – Thu 24 Oct

26 Oct – 30 Oct 30 Oct – 3 Nov 3 Nov – 7 Nov 7 Nov – 11 Nov 11 Nov – 15 Nov 16 Nov– 23 Nov

Short Break in Autumn Birders Blast in Autumn Short Break in Autumn Birders Blast in Autumn Birders Blast in Autumn

Solway Firth Sat 2 Nov – Thu 7 Nov

Orkney in High Summer Sat 20 July – Sat 27 July Mull & Ardnamurchan Spectacular Sat 20 July – Sat 27 July

North Ronaldsay and Orkney in Early Autumn for birders Sat 24 Aug – Fri 30 Aug Outer Hebrides in Early Autumn for birders Sat 24 Aug – Fri 30 Aug

North Ron and Orkney in Autumn for birders Sat 14 Sept – Fri 20 Sept North Ron and Orkney in Autumn for birders Sat 21 Sept – Fri 27 Sept Shetland in Autumn for birders Sat 21 Sept – Sat 28 Sept West Cornwall in Autumn for birders Fri 27 Sept – Fri 4 Oct Shetland in Autumn for birders Sat 28 Sept – Sat 5 Oct Outer Hebrides in Autumn for birders Sat 5 Oct – Fri 12 Oct Isles of Scilly for birders Sat 5 Oct – Sat 12 Oct

25 Jan – 1 Feb

Southern Peru & Machu Picchu Sat 12 Oct – Sun 27 Oct NEW! Colombia Sat 19 Oct – Sun 3 Nov

Costa Rica Classic Tour - PLUS! Sat 2 Nov – Wed 20 Nov

Hogmanay Birding Festival New Year Birdlist Booster New Year Birdlist Booster

Short Breaks winter Sat 18 Jan – Wed 22 Jan Birders Blast Wed 22 Jan – Sun 26 Jan Birders Blast Sun 26 Jan – Thurs 30 Jan

Spain – Lynx & Birding Sat 11 Jan – Sat 18 Jan Costa Rica Classic Sat 11 Jan – Sun 26 Jan NEW! Sri Lanka Sat 11 Jan – Tues 28 Jan

Up Helly Aa – Shetland in Winter Fri 24 Jan – Thurs 30 Jan

Sweden in Winter for Birders Sat 25 Jan – Thurs 30 Jan NEW! Guatemala Sun 26 Jan – Fri 14 Feb NEW! Jamaica, Dominican Republic & Puerto Rico Tues 29 Jan – Mon 10 Feb

HEATHERLEA BIRDING & WILDLIFE HOLIDAYS

18 Jan – 25 Jan

NEW! South- West Australia Sun 6 Oct – Wed 16 Oct

Goa – Konkan Coast to the Western Ghats Sat 16 Nov – Sun 1 Dec NEW! Mexico Sun 17 Nov – Thurs 28 Nov NEW! Gambia Tues 19 Nov – Fri 29 Nov NEW! Hungary in Winter Thurs 21 Nov – Sun 24 Nov NEW! Costa Rica Classic in November Sat 23 Nov – Sun 8 Dec Vietnam Sat 23 Nov – Fri 13 Dec NEW! Panama Sat 23 Nov – Sun 8 Dec NEW! Chile- The Atacama Desert Tues 26 Nov – Tues 10 Dec Kenyan Ultimate Birding Tour Wed 27 Nov – Wed 11 Dec Botswana Fri 29 Nov – Sun 15 Dec

23 Nov – 30 Nov

30 Nov – 7 Dec 28 Dec – 4 Jan 2025.

4 Jan – 11 Jan 2025.

11 Jan – 18 Jan

NEW! Southern Ireland Sat 31 Aug – Sat 7 Sept NEW! Sweden in Autumn – Falsterbo Sun 1 Sept – Sat 7 Sept Namibia Sun 1 Sept – Wed 18 Sept Spain – Andalucia for Autumn Migration Sat 7 Sept – Sat 14 Sept The Galapagos Islands & Mainland Ecuador Mon 9 Sept – Tues 1 Oct Azores Thurs 19 Sept – Thurs 26 Sept NEW! Estonia in Autumn Sat 21 Sept – Sat 28 Sept NEW! Cape May for Birders Sat 21 Sept – Mon 30 Sept

81

birding and wildlife holidays

Tel: 01479 821248 website: www.heatherlea.co.uk email: info@heatherlea.co.uk twitter: @heatherleabirds facebook: heatherleabirdwatching

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Heatherlea The Mountview Hotel Nethy Bridge Inverness-shire PH25 3EB

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01/2024