On Top

Once or twice a year we try to get pictures of our local Mountain wildlife; If possible this is in winter. Earlier this week we found the perfect opportunity. Cool clear skies, light wind and not too much snow. Getting to the top was OK although the last part had snow that was unstable and tiring. At the summit we found both our local "grouse" species - the Red Grouse and the (Rock) Ptarmigan, both at the same altitude. 
Having photographed both species before made the experience more relaxing. That said I had seldom photographed the Red Grouse against snow. A flock of seven Ptarmigan made our day. The males were courting the females - I guess they found the conditions positively balmy. We also saw a few Mountain Hares (another day) and a couple of Snow Bunting gave us a fly past. A Wonderful reward for our efforts