Day 26 of #30DaysWild takes a look at a trip to RSPB Loch of Strathbeg in Aberdeenshire.

Last time we went to RSPB Loch of Strathbeg was probably a couple of years ago. Since then a new visitor centre has been created which looked pretty good! The reserve has numerous hides and walks as well as a wildlife garden. You can also spend time in the visitor centre overlooking the wildlife in the reserve.

As we had Robin with us we spent most of our time in the visitor centre. Taking a baby to a hide wouldn’t be the best guarantee of seeing any wildlife! My favourite thing was the large window which overlooked the bird feeding area. You could just take a seat and watch the birds feed. You were really close to them too which made it easier to get photos of them. Unfortunately the glass window means some of my images aren’t as great as I had hoped!

Robin was next to me in his buggy looking out the window. I was amazed just how quiet and engrossed he was! Youngest birdwatcher ever I think. We saw Tree Sparrows, Great Tits, Blue Tits, Blackbirds, Wood Pigeons, Siskins, Goldfinches, Great Spotted Woodpecker and a Redpoll  (or was it a Linnet? See the pics below and see what you think). I had never seen a Redpoll before and have only ever seen a Woodpecker a few times!

After spending a bit of time in the visitor centre Robin started to get restless so I took him for a walk around the wildlife garden whilst daddy explored the reserve.

This is an interesting reserve to visit even on a rainy day as you can see wildlife from the visitor centre. If you do plan on taking a baby though I would recommend a carrier as it is not really a place for buggies. Even though Robin and I didn’t venture too far we still had a great time and Robin did his first ever bird spot!

Camilla-Erika and Robin Oleander x

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