This was shot high in the hills above Aviemore Scotland. It seemed bigger than one I've seen before, it was part of a group of maybe six. Making more noise than I've heard, quite deep sounding and when I went under the tree to try and get a better shot they appeared to throw pine cones at me. there where reds also but this was my best shot before they flew off. Crossbill, Scotish/ parrot?
For viewing or photography right place right time is everything. I'd rather be in the right place with poor kit than have the best kit and be in the wrong place.
Super pictures by the way,
I remember seeing a 'Crossbill' at Callander, (Stirling area) Scotland a few years ago. It was a male due the colouration. Sadly, I did not get a picture though as we did not have our camera with us at the time
From my own experience of 'Crossbills' - I did remember asking a general question about Crossbills on another one of my fourms, and I was told the most likest species of Crossbill would be a 'Common Crossbill' or the 'Red Crossbill' as it is known by also.
It was explained to me it is simply that 'Common Crossbill' are more likely than another species..
I do agree by going by the feathering that it is an immature one, so it is hard to tell if it is a Male or Female bird at the moment.
More recently we have been lucky to see 2 Crossbills at the RSPB Headquarters, Lodge, but once again I did not know the species. I am sure that someone could explain what species they are? At one point there was a flock of them at the Lodge, but that was seen by others more recently. So no doubt someone will know.
Regards
Kathy and Dave
Heron77 said: Hello. Don't know enough about crossbills to say whether the bird is a Scottish Crossbill or Common Crossbill. Although I have to say those are some brilliant photographs. Paul
Hello.
Don't know enough about crossbills to say whether the bird is a Scottish Crossbill or Common Crossbill. Although I have to say those are some brilliant photographs.
Paul
The only thing you can say is that it is a juvenile - heavily streaked breast and pointed tail feathers. The crossbill complex in the Highlands is very complicated and the only way to identify them is to record the calls and give them to an expert!
I have been to Abernethy and seen lots of crossbills but I don't know which ones to tick!!
Great birds though