birding and wildlife holidays 2020 - uk & overseas · birding and wildlife holidays 2020 177556...

birding and wildlife holidays

2020

177556 Heatherlea 2020-Paged-PRINT.pdf 1 25/06/2019 09:41

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WELCOME TO HEATHERLEAyour natural holiday choice for 30 seasons!Welcome to our 2020 Brochure! 2020 will be our 30th season, and we offer awealth of wildlife holiday choice, both inScotland and around the world. There areestablished favourites and exciting new trips, withmany added features to offer you the very bestin wildlife holiday value. Our office team is alsogrowing, and with a full-time team of six to lookafter holiday planning and delivery, we areinvesting in the support services we know you need and appreciate.

Here at our own Hotel in Nethy Bridge, ‘Scottish Highlands’ groups are small(max 7 per guide), with a high level of personal attention. We are birding 47weeks of the year, with 25 different full week itineraries to choose, and thisyear we add some exciting new options. Stay for a full week or choose one ofour shorter breaks, all offer great value.

Around the Scottish Islands, Heatherlea offer a unique gateway to beautiful,isolated places where wildlife is special, with over 25 fantastic holidays fromIslay to St Kilda. Our expert, friendly guides make each experience truly


COVER PHOTOSWhite-tailed Eagle by Neil McIntyreSee our Scottish Highlands, Scottish Islands and manyEastern European tours to target White-tailed Eagle.Magnificent Hummingbird by Dave Pullan.See our Costa Rica holidays to target MagnificentHummingbird.More photo credits on page 37.

Kevin, Caryl and the Heatherlea team

WHY CHOOSE HEATHERLEA? 1Meet the team 2

OVERSEAS 5Do it the Heatherlea wayPre-flight service

EUROPE 8Armenia 8Austria 9Belarus 9Bulgaria in Autumn 9Bulgaria and northern Greece 10Camargue 10Canaries 10NEW! Czech Republic – south Moravia 11Estonia 11Estonia – winter short break 11NEW! ‘Grand Tour’ of Finland & Norway 12Hungary in Autumn 13Iceland in Summer 13Ireland for Birders 13NEW! Italy – Po Delta and Rome 14Mallorca 14Portugal – in Spring 14Skyros 15Spain – Andalucia 15Spain – Catalonia and South-east Aragon 16NEW! Spain for Birds and Butterflies 16 Spain – Birding and Lynx 17Spain – Extremadura 17Spain – Picos Mountains 17Svalbard 18 Sweden for Birders in Winter 18

REST OF THE WORLD 19Morocco 20 Uganda 20Kenya 21Gambia 22NEW! Ghana 22Costa Rica 23Belize and the Yucatan Peninsula 24 NEW! Guatemala 24NEW! Colombia 25Ecuador & Galapagos 25Brazil – The Pantanal 26Peru 26Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons 27NEW! Arizona & the Grand Canyon 27Trinidad, Tobago and St Lucia 28

NEW! Vietnam 28NEW! China –Tibetan Plateau 29 Nepal 29India – Goa 30 India – Birds, Tigers and Taj Mahal 30 NEW! Queensland, SE Australia and Tasmania 31

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS 32Hogmanay Birding Festival 38New Year Birdlist Booster 38Short Breaks and Birders Blasts 39Highland Winter Birding 40 Highlands and the East Coast 40Highlands and the West Coast 41Highland Birding in March 41Spring into Scotland including Mull 42Highlands and Skye 42Birding the Highlands in May 43Highlands & Corncrake 43High Season across the Highlands 44Highlands and Orkney 44The Outer Limits in Summer 45NEW! Highlands and the Isle of May 45Highland Wildlife 46 Eagles, Divers and Dotterel including Mull 46 Highlands & Wester Ross 47Highlands & the Bass Rock 47Highlands and the Outer Hebrides 48NEW! Autumn in the Highlands 48 with ‘Easy Walking’ Twenty Scottish Specials in Autumn 49Raptors & Grouse 49The ‘Outer Limits’ Adventure 50Highlands and Skye in Autumn 50Highland Autumn Birding 51

SCOTTISH ISLANDS 52NEW! Shetland – Up Helly Aa! 53Mull & Islay 54North Ron and Orkney in Spring for birders 54 Outer Hebrides in Spring 55Shetland in Spring for birders 55Mull, Iona and the Treshnish Isles 56NEW! Birding the North Coast 500 56Shetland Island Explorer 57Orkney and the Flow Country 57Islands on the Edge 58Orkney Island Explorer 58Southern Hebrides from Colonsay to Islay 59Shetland and Orkney 59Inner Hebrides from Canna to Iona 60Outer Hebrides and the Shiant Isles 60Ultimate Outer Hebrides 61

Index

memorable. Our ‘Rest of Uk’ holidays are expanding rapidly too, and nowmany of you can choose Heatherlea much closer to home.

Overseas our very popular Pre-flight Service saves you money, brings youcomfort and makes everything easy. We include as standard an AirportHotel, VIP Lounge and Bird Guide (for tours outside the scope of theCollins Guide). With a maximum of just twelve clients on most holidays,and frequently two guides in attendance, the accent is again on personalservice to you, our valued customer. Many departures are already filling aswe write this introduction.

We are also very pleased to welcome several outstanding new guides toour team, in Scotland and further afield. We are delighted that some ofthe best bird guides in the world want to work with Heatherlea.

Thanks to all friends old and new who have joined us during the 30 seasonsHeatherlea has been in operation, we hope to earn your support again.Here’s to great wildlife watching!

St Kilda and the Hebrides 61Coll & Tiree in Summer 62NEW! Hebridean Island Cruise 62Orkney in High Summer 63North Ron and Orkney in Autumn for birders 63 Outer Hebrides in early Autumn for birders 64Shetland in Autumn for birders 64 Unexplored Orkney 65Outer Hebrides in Autumn for birders 65 Coll and Tiree in Autumn for birders 66Islay and Jura 66

REST OF THE UK 67Forest of Dean and the Somerset Levels 67NEW! West Sussex and Kent 68 NEW! Norfolk and Suffolk 68NEW! Lancashire 68Northumberland 69West Cornwall in Autumn 69Isles of Scilly for birders 69Southern Scotland – Coast to Coast 70Birding the East coast in Autumn 70Solway Firth 702021 – new holidays 71Booking Form 71Calendar 72

Heatherlea Scotland

‘High standards of customer care and a genuine

passion for birding and wildlife make this a most

rewarding experience.’

VisitScotland, Heatherlea assessment

This recyclable Brochure is printed on paperfrom responsible sources. All postage is made byrecyclable envelope or polylope.


t: 01479 821248 e: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk Instagram: @heatherleabirds

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Heatherlea is built on a love of wildlife watching, and a real spirit ofadventure. There are birds and other animals to marvel at, flora to enjoy andlandscapes and culture to savour! We are firmly focused on finding wildlifefor you to see, though only in a sensitive and sustainable way, and plan verycarefully in advance to give you the best chances, in comfort and safety.

We are always aware of the environment around us. Whether you are viewingCrested Tit and Capercaillie within a few miles of our Hotel in the ScottishHighlands, watching Tiger from a jeep in a remote Indian reserve, or findingspring migrant birds in Skyros or Extremadura, we work hard to give you the‘real’ experience and treat you as a valued individual, not as part of a crowd.Our Guides are professionals, much more than couriers or day-guides, andthey work hard with patience and skill, wherever you are, to make sure thatyour investment of time and money is rewarded.

Back at our office, inside our own Hotel, we know that integral servicesincluding accommodation, food and travel are just as important as activitiesin the field when delivering a wildlife watching holiday. In our specialist partof the tourism industry, there are very few travel companies who own

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and deliver hotel services on a daily basis, and even fewer hotel-owningcompanies who understand the complex delivery of wildlife holidays.Heatherlea both own a three-star hotel and take you to places around theworld for wildlife. We have the knowledge and experience to delivereverything you need, and our full-time team of six trained Operations Staffare ready to help you.

Established in 1991, protected by our own ATOL Licence (6113), and with adedicated UK Bank account solely for clients’ monies, Heatherlea offers thefoundation and security you need when deciding who to choose. We holdspecialist Tour Operator Insurance, and our Hotel is wholly owned by the company, so we offer added security which might not be availableeverywhere you look. Our attitude and dedication have establishedHeatherlea as one of Britain’s leading wildlife holiday providers, and as weapproach our 30th season we have never stopped striving to be better, togive our clients the best value we can find. We also take care to make sure youare comfortable. You won’t feel out of place if you have less experience thanothers. We are not ‘intensive’ or ‘twitchers’, but are dedicated to showing youwildlife, and above all, we have fun.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS WITH HEATHERLEAYour gateway to Scottish birds and wildlife!

This is where we started, and our lovely Hotel in the beautiful Highland village of Nethy Bridge, on the edgeof the Abernethy Forest, is where many of our clients take their first wildlife watching holiday, often continuingwith us to new places around the world.

Our Scottish full-week holidays take you to places where wildlife is special, and we travel in minibuses whichare great mobile hides. Many special species can be found close to our Hotel, though our Scottish Highlanditineraries might also take you as far away as Handa Island, Orkney, the Isles of Lewis and Harris, Skye, andMull, including a night or two in a second centre to reduce travel miles.

We show you all the wildlife, and include all accommodation, food, travel, access fees and ferry charges. Youget terrific value from our fully inclusive holidays, so book with confidence – there are no hidden extras! Turnto page 32 to read more.

SCOTTISH ISLAND HOLIDAYS WITH HEATHERLEAGo a little further!

We are experts on the Scottish islands, where Corncrake, eagles, skuas, Basking Shark, Storm Petrel, rare,windblown migrants, wonderful scenery, charming people and exciting places are all waiting for you. Theseadventures begin to unfold on page 52.

OVERSEAS WITH HEATHERLEADo it ‘The Heatherlea Way’

Europe, the Americas, long-haul to Africa, Asia or Australia, there is a world of choicewith Heatherlea. ‘The Heatherlea Way’ involves looking after you with care whilstmaximising your experience and giving value for money. Most holidays begin beforeyou even reach airport check-in, with our Pre-flight services. Read more from Page 5.

Finally, we should point out that this Brochure offers a flavour of our holidays, andmost of the basic information you need. More information is available on our websiteor directly by telephone or email, and details can change. We always issue a fullitinerary with each holiday confirmation, though please check against the website toensure you know exactly what the content will be. New holidays are launchedvirtually every month, and as some dates fill others are made available. We are alwaysvery happy to hear from you. Thank you for reading our 2020 Brochure!

WHY CHOOSE HEATHERLEA?



MEET THE HEATHERLEA TEAM!Our highly experienced team are ready and waiting to organise your holiday and show you the wildlife,wherever in the world 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 ourexpert leaders know that the really important part of any holiday is the experience for you, our valued customer. Much more than a friend tohelp you identify birds, your Heatherlea Guide plans your entire holiday, from briefing on the first evening to round-up on the last. Theyorganise everything to suit wildlife, weather and your progress through the week, and because our groups are small, have time to care aboutyour 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, anda 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.

Mike ColemanCheery and friendly, Mike first joined us in 2001, making awelcome return to the team recently. Mike resumes hisduties in Scotland and around the world, much to thebenefit of our groups!

Peter CosgrovePeter is a professional eco-consultant, keen birderthroughout the Highlands and well-travelled overseas,leading for us in the Caribbean, Africa, Americas andelsewhere.

Barry EmblingBarry joined us in 2019 and is already proving popular withmany of our guests. A keen birdwatcher and naturalist athome and abroad, Barry joins the team again in 2020 andis looking forward to leading in Europe, Scotland and therest of the UK.

Bernie ForbesExperienced leader Bernie loves sharing his passion forbirds and his groups enjoy great birding. Bernie has ledmany groups around Europe, North Africa and theAmericas, and now extends Heatherlea tours into hisnative Sussex.

Ian FordIan joined Heatherlea in 1999 and joins us again in 2020 asa Senior Guide. Ever popular, Ian will be leading groupsfrom Orkney to the Solway Firth in Scotland, and overseasholidays including Gambia, Camargue and Yellowstone.

George GayGeorge joined us from North Ronaldsay in 2019, and hissharp birding skills and infectious enthusiasm have alreadyenhanced many of our Scottish tours. We are delightedto welcome George back in 2020.

Toby GreenToby is a very experienced birder, who joined us in 2013. Apopular Leader in Scotland and around the world, Toby isa top birder with a great sense of humour, and boundlessenthusiasm.

Rob JordanA keen birder and top photographer, Rob joined us in 2013and will be guiding Heatherlea groups around Scotlandand overseas during 2020.

Phil KnottPhil is a well-established and popular member of theHeatherlea team. With extensive experience throughoutthe world, Phil will be leading in Queensland and Tasmaniain 2020.

Scott O’HaraScott joined our team in autumn 2015 and has quicklybecome established as a well-liked and invaluable memberof our team. Scott will be leading for us in Scotland andaround the world in 2020.

John PictonJohn joined our happy team in 2016 and will be guiding inScotland in 2020. His relaxed style and easy manner makefor enjoyable days in the field.

Jonny PottJonny joined Heatherlea in 2001 and is full of tales of localhistory and birding lore from his home on Kincardine Moor,close to Nethy Bridge. With caring manner and endlessenthusiasm, Jonny will be there from mountains to Mull toshow you Scotland’s special wildlife.

Dave PullanDave is an exceptional birder who has vast experience inScotland and worldwide. He joined Heatherlea in 2006, andhas been responsible for many sightings of rarities inScotland. Dave also leads overseas in Spain, Armenia, Indiaand China, amongst other places.

Kevin ShawFounder of Heatherlea with wife Caryl in 1991, Kevin isaround most weeks at The Mountview Hotel in NethyBridge when not leading in Scotland or overseas. Kevintends to pop up unannounced on several overseas holidayseach year.

Mark Warren Mark joined us from North Ronaldsay in January 2016, andsince then has become a popular member of our team allaround Scotland. Mark has already made happy returns toNorth Ron as a Heatherlea Guide!

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.

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Our overseas guiding team are dedicated experts in the regions andcountries they cover, and when working for Heatherlea are frequentlyrequired to provide services which make our trips unique. This mightmean gala dinners, upgraded accommodation, cultural elements thatwe think you will like, and much more. Our office team are in regularcontact before every trip, and our overseas agents and guides arealways particularly well briefed. This might mean special attention toyour diet, medical requirements, extensions to your holiday oranything else we can think of to improve your holiday experience. Allare very experienced and great favourites of ours!

Peg AbbottWe first met Peg at Heatherlea, and immediatelyrecognised a first rate tour leader. Peg has worked in theYellowstone ecosystem for 30 years, specialising in wolf,grizzly and elk projects. Peg is an experienced birder,leading natural history and birding tours for over 20 years.

Suchit BasnetSuchit is one of the most famous and sought-afterLeaders in his native Nepal, where his extensiveknowledge and sunny disposition brighten every trip. Weare delighted to welcome him back for 2020.

Wilson DiazOur agent in Peru, Wilson has developed our uniqueitineraries in his home country, covering a huge range ofspectacular birds and wonderful Machu Picchu.

Gerard GormanGerard is Heatherlea organiser for Eastern Europe, andalso leads for us in Uganda and Jamaica. Well-known asan expert on the world’s woodpeckers, and author ofseveral well-informed birding books, Lancastrian Gerardlives in Budapest.

Tang JunHas been guiding birding tours in China since 1999 and isa very experienced Leader throughout the country. Theowner of our Chinese agent company, and vice-chairmanof Chengdu Birdwatching Society, we are delighted thatTang can join us personally in 2020.

Johnnie Kamugisha is a vastly experienced Guide,having led wildlife tours across Uganda for 16 years, oftenin the company of his wife Agnes. Johnnie is a top birder,and President of the Uganda Bird Guides Club.

Paco MadrigalOur leader in Costa Rica for many years, Paco is widelyregarded as one of the best wildlife guides in the country,with an extremely likeable, easy-going manner, and acomplete knowledge of the birds of his homeland. We aredelighted Paco will be leading for us again in 2020.

Gabor and Andrea OrbanGabor and his wife Andrea guide for us in Mexico and Belize.Gabor is our specialist birding guide, having led birding toursin Central Americas since 2006, and Andrea concentrates onthe cultural aspects of the many Mayan sites we visit.

Menotti Passarella'What Menotti doesn't know about the birds of the Po Deltaisn't worth knowing' - Bob Scott, 'Where to go birdwatchingin the Po Delta'. We are always guaranteed fascinating birdingwith our Italian expert Menotti, and often gain access toplaces not normally open to the public.

Sergi SalesSergi is an outstanding Spanish birder, specialising in the birdsof 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 ourholiday team.

Hugo SampaioJoined the Heatherlea team in 2018. Hugo works with SPEA,studying and monitoring birds across Spain, Portugal & theAzores. He has guided extensively across the region and welook forward to his expertise on our Portugal tour.

Rodrigo TapiaRodrigo has explored Chile’s whole length from the northernAltiplano to Cape Horn while conducting ornithologicalresearch and guiding birding tours and pelagics since 1989and works full-time as a birding and wildlife trip leader. Hehas spent hundreds of hours with albatrosses, petrels andother seabirds, a group which has always captivated him.

Andrés Trujillo is a highly experienced tour guide inColombia and Ecuador, with a comprehensive knowledge ofthe birds, mammals and other wildlife of his homeland.Andres has led trips for Heatherlea since 2008.

Washington WachiraWashington 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.

… and in the office …Emma, Fleur, Lindsay, Jolene, Alan and Kevin are here tohelp, please contact us anytime. Please visit our website to read more about the holidayof your choice, and also to download a free ‘Trip Report’from a recent holiday. Our office team will be very happy to speak with you bytelephone or email, and you can check up-to-dateavailability in person by calling or writing. To reserve yourholiday please telephone or email. You may also use theBooking Form on page 71 and send in the post if youprefer.

T 01479 821248 • E [email protected] W www.heatherlea.co.uk • Tw @heatherleabirds



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Your very comprehensive and illustrated report on Spain, Birds and Lynxis very greatly appreciated. Many thanks for including so much detail, awonderful prompt for many happy memories. Receiving a report after aHeatherlea trip is the icing on the cake and in this case a particularly richcake and icing.

Ms NC Spain – Birding & Iberian Lynx, 7-14 January

CLIENT FEEDBACK – just some of your comments from the year so far!

Thanks for your part in the organising of our fantastic trip to Sweden.

After Estonia I said that each Heatherlea holiday impossibly gets better

than the last and this is so true this time too.

The scenery and hotel were superb. (I understand Fleur chose it). The

breakfast and evening meals were so good, and the fresh salad packed

lunches made a nice change.

But all credit must go to Toby and Mark for finding us such wonderful birds

in quite trying conditions. The round up for our star birds was just

impossible with ones like Nutcracker, Siberian Jay, Pygmy Owl, Hawk Owl,

Parrot Crossbill etc etc. Your guides are all good but these two were just

superb. This was no ordinary guiding, with the conditions and large

distances they found us the star birds safely and with their wonderful good

humour. The amount of work involved in taking us down to the site to find

the Siberian Jays was unbelievable. At all times they checked we were all

ok and led down safely. But the experience of seeing the jays along with

numerous Crested Tits and other birds was so memorable.

Mr & Mrs PT Sweden in Winter, 3 – 8 February

Can I offer my congratulations to all the team at Heatherlea for hostingreliably good wildlife holidays. This latest one was no exception - in factit rivalled all the others I have done. Each time I take a Scottish holidaywith yourselves it seems like the best though that is probably onlybecause it is the most recent. Well done to you all.Special thanks go to Jonny and George for their superb knowledge andleadership skills. Jonny's ability to find us birds is outstanding as is hisknowledge of the area. Many birds were first located by their songs andcalls - an admirable skill.Thank you also for the excellent report so quickly produced.Ms MH Highlands & Skye, 20-27 April

I am writing to thank you for an excellent tour with Heatherlea to Kenya.We appreciated every aspect of the tour with very good accommodation,in great locations. Washington is a first-class tour guide and we wouldlike to thank him and his team for organizing every aspect of the trip. Alot of preparation had clearly gone into the running of this tour. We enjoyed great birdwatching throughout with 368 species for us,including 170 lifers. This was also our first experience of big gamewatching. Our highlights were hippos on the lawn outside our room atLake Naivasha - at 0230hrs one morning, to the fortunate sighting of twoleopards on a kill at Lake Nakuru National Park. However, our visit to theMasai Mara made the tour complete when we were able to observe acheetah hunting in the bush into the open plain, to eventually take ayoung Thomson's Gazelle. This was followed by three hyenas hassling amale lion, whilst three lionesses and several lion cubs feasted on anotherkill. We thought you could only view these scenes on Tv!

Mr & Mrs PB Kenya – Birding the Rift Valley, 3-12 February

Hi,

My wife and I have just returned home and we wish to record what asplendid time we had. The accommodation at both venues was very good and the birdwatchingexcellent - largely due to the efforts of John Picton and Barry Embling. John was brilliant at getting us all on to particular species through hisskilful description of landmarks and other features - and all done withpatient good humour and understanding. He is clearly very experienced asa bird guide, is remarkably patient, and was excellent at slipping innuggets of information about the species we saw. A privilege to be withhim.

In the Forest of Dean, we were fortunate indeed to have Barry with us. Heclearly has a huge fount of knowledge of the forest and its trees and isskilled at pointing out significant identification features in the morecomplex of conifers. The importance of timber in the recent history ofBritain was described. I was left in awe at some of the Oaks and wasfascinated at the snippets of information such as learning that the lowerleaves on holly trees are much pricklier than those above the browse line.All in all, John and Barry ensured that we got the most out of the trip andwe are greatly indebted to them!Mr & Mrs JB Forest of Dean & Somerset Levels, 2 – 9 March

Hello everyone up at the Mountview.

Just back from a superb trip to the Canaries.

Dave and Scott did a marvellous job of getting us all onto

the complete list of the target birds plus a couple of

fantastic bonuses. They made a fantastic team and kept us

well entertained and informed throughout the trip.

Both hotels were first class, with top notch food. It was so

nice to stay in traditional countryside accommodation,

rather than a chain big box in the resorts. Congratulations

to whoever sourced the hotels!

Mr NC Canaries, 23 February – 2 March


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OVERSEAS BIRDING AND WILDLIFE HOLIDAYSDo it ‘The Heatherlea Way’!

Our overseas holidays are planned with care to offer great birding and wildlife, led by capable Leaders who really look after you. Everyholiday is run ‘The Heatherlea Way’, offering rewarding and exciting days in the field, and good quality accommodation and meals, with areal flavour of the country we are visiting. Most holidays include at least an element of local guiding, and we always seek to include thepersonal touches that make all the difference.

Heatherlea holidays are not ‘dawn to dusk’ expeditions. Our less-intensive approach is ideal for those who want to relax whilst enjoying excellent wildlifewatching, and wherever possible we organise early or late activity on an optional basis. We also take sensible breaks when in very hot places and regularcomfort 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 betterviews for all rather than chase the next ‘tick’. All itineraries are planned carefully around the best wildlife opportunities, and our relaxed, informal holidaysare great fun.

WHY CHOOSE HEATHERLEA OVERSEAS? The most important part of any wildlife holiday is the experience for you, ourvalued customer. Heatherlea invest in many things to help you get the best:� Heatherlea is your complete wildlife holiday provider, and our team canorganise all your pre-flight and other travel needs, so you book the rightservices, at the best price. See next page for details!

� We have been organising birding and wildlife holidays for 30 seasonsand have a highly experienced and capable office team. We also offer atelephone and email service outside normal office hours.

� Many holidays include content which might not seem important beforeyou book but will make a difference when you arrive – examples includean opportunity to photograph lekking Ruff in Finland, taverna meals inSkyros, internal flights in Peru, India and Nepal, and many more.

� A ‘feel’ of the country we are visiting is an important part of ourholidays. This may mean wine-tasting in Chile, or tea at a Saharancommunity in Morocco. We don’t lose birding time, just offer a little extraso you can enjoy a rounded holiday experience.

� Often our holidays include things which others might invite you to payyourself, for instance Departure Taxes and tips to hotels. Please checkwhen comparing!

� Heatherlea overseas holidays have a maximum of 12 clients per trip,putting the emphasis on personal service, and helping you get the bestpossible experience. (NB we reserve the right to increase the number ofclients to 13, should a couple wish to book the final place available).

� Low initial deposit secures your holiday for most destinations.

MORE IMPORTANT DETAIL!� If you would like more information before you decide, you candownload a copy of the ‘TRIP REPORT’ which includes a copy of the birdlist and species seen on the previous year’s departure. ‘TRIP REPORTS’ canbe downloaded from our website – just visit the holiday page atwww.heatherlea.co.uk, and help yourself, or ring us here in the office andwe will post a printed copy to you. For further information and bookingdetails contact us on 01479 821248 or email [email protected].

� A copy of the ‘Tour Info Pack’ will be issued when you book, includinginformation to help prepare for your holiday. Sections headed ‘Flights’,‘Entering your destination’, ‘Field Clothing’ and ‘Currency’ will help you toplan – you will be very well informed!

� A ‘Final Information Pack’ will be issued prior to travel, containing flighttickets, Guide contact details, airport hotels, accommodation in thedestination country including relevant websites, plus health and otheruseful information you might need whilst abroad.

� All elements of our holidays are sold under our own licence, ATOL 6113.Under UK ‘Flight-Plus’ legislation it is a legal requirement of any touroperator to hold an ATOL licence for the supply of any overseas holidaywhere a flight is involved, if that holiday includes either overseasaccommodation and/or vehicle hire. It can be a criminal offence for anoperator to book flights as part of a package without an ATOL licence.Book holiday extensions through us, and your ATOL protection is extendedeven further. Heatherlea alsohold full Tour OperatorInsurance for your addedprotection.


CHOICE OF AIRPORTPrefer to fly from your local airport? We offer a number of departures fromManchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Aberdeen and other regionalairports. You can often choose to take your pre-flight hotel in yourdestination country rather than in London and join the rest of the holidaygroup the following day. If you do not wish to travel from the nominatedairport, please contact us to see what we can arrange for the holiday of yourchoice.



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ENJOY A PRE-FLIGHT AIRPORT HOTEL andLOUNGE!All 2020 Heatherlea overseas holidays which include flights also include anovernight airport hotel and lounge before you fly, organised by Heatherleaas part of our pre-flight service. We will contact you as your holidayapproaches to confirm details and any other services you might require. Tobenefit, book with Heatherlea!

PRE-FLIGHT HOTELHeatherlea select your airport hotel from our approved shortlist. All offergood en-suite accommodation, evening meals and readily available carparking and transfers to the terminal.

PRE-FLIGHT VIP AIRPORT LOUNGEWe want your holiday to start early - unwind before you fly! A busy airportterminal is hardly the ideal place to relax, and by the time you've boughtfood, drinks, newspapers and a magazine to pass the time, can proveexpensive too. Why not prefer the comfort of an airport lounge, where youcan relax for up to three hours before your flight?

Most of our lounges offer ample free drinks and snacks, magazines andnewspapers, wifi, TV and comfortable seating amid quiet surroundings, in asecluded getaway from the crowded terminal. If travelling on your flight,your Heatherlea guide will be there for an optional chat after everyone haschecked-in, and you can get to know your fellow travellers or just sink into

THE HEATHERLEA PRE-FLIGHT SERVICEan armchair – the choice and comfort are yours! We will confirmarrangements and include any necessary admission tickets in your ‘FinalInformation Pack’. If you've never used an airport lounge before, you don'tknow what you're missing – just don’t get too comfortable and forget tocatch your flight!

PARKINGDriving to the airport? Book secure car parking with us to save time andmoney; we offer trusted and good value airport parking services. We canarrange parking at your hotel or at the terminal, and options include valetparking, and a ‘meet-and-greet’ service, just ask!

FLIGHT UPGRADESHeatherlea offer great deals for Premium Economy and Business Classpassengers, often bookable instantly over the phone. In the Economy Cabinwe can arrange a special meal request or organise extra legroom, just askwhen you book. Where possible we give you written confirmation of specialarrangements to carry with you on the flight.

TAILOR MADE EXTENSIONSLooking to add extra days before or after your wildlife holiday? You canarrange to stopover at any European hub airport as part of any of our tours.We will organise flights and even hotels and transfers to help you get themost from a second centre. It’s quicker and easier than doing it yourself, andyou will benefit from ATOL protection. We can arrange extensions to all ouroverseas tours, just tell us your requirements and we will do the rest!



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PRE-FLIGHT SERVICES, CHARGES AND CREDITSYour holiday price is inclusive of pre-flight hotel and lounge. We adjust yourfinal invoice downwards if you don’t require the pre-flight hotel, or if an airportlounge is unavailable. Other services, including meals, car parking, upgradesetc. are charged separately if we organise them for you. It is important toremember that extra services (e.g. car parking) can be more expensive as yourdeparture date approaches, so please contact us before your final balancepayment is due should you require us to organise any additional service.

QUALITY ASSURANCE All elements of our package holidays are sold under licence (ATOL 6113). Ourbusiness partners include British Airways, Delta Airlines, Premier Inn and HiltonHotels. We have a highly experienced and capable team, and our specialistknowledge will help you get exactly the right services, at the best availableprice. We offer all your airport needs with just one call, so to save time andmoney choose Heatherlea, your complete wildlife holiday provider.

With Heatherlea, the FieldGuide is FREE! Our unique Pre-flight Service offers youmore, and for most holidays in the ‘Rest ofthe World’ section of this Brochure, theleading bird book relevant to the holiday isincluded in your holiday price. We includeone copy with each room booked. Withsome titles costing around £40, this isanother benefit from Heatherlea whichsaves you money!

Don’t forget, when comparing Heatherlea with others;

� pre-flight airport hotel INCLUDED^

� pre-flight VIP lounge entry INCLUDED^

� car parking, upgrades, in-flight special diets ORGANISED AT NO EXTRA CHARGE

� departure tax (several long-haul destinations) INCLUDED

� birding Field Guide (destinations not covered by Collins) INCLUDED

� major tips to Hotels INCLUDED (whip-rounds for drivers/guides always encouraged, but not compulsory).

� a ‘feel’ of the country and other benefits INCLUDED.

� Max 12 clients on most holidays.

The list goes on!^ price reduction if not needed or unavailable.



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This year we have many new trips in Europe, and enhancements to some oldfavourites to keep them fresh and up-to-date with the best available birding. Moredestinations are coming all the time; please keep an eye on our website andnewsletters!

Most European holidays are led by one of our regular guiding team travelling fromthe UK, and with more than seven clients you will usually have two Guides. SomeGuides are based in the destination country.

We are your complete holiday provider, offering upgrades, seat selection, cateringfor in-flight dietary requirements, and other services so you can feel relaxed andcomfortable whatever your needs. Don’t forget, if you wish to extend our advertisedholiday, our ATOL protection covers your full holiday package, and our ‘Pre-flightService’ makes arrival at the departure gate easier – read more on page 6.

We have added many important elements to our holidays to give you extra value,please check the detail! Here are some examples:

✦ In Po Delta we stay in a wonderful rural hotel, whichoffers exceptional local produce; we recommend thevegetarian starters! This is also the case in Catalonia, whereour two hotels are in places you are unlikely to find otherbirders or indeed English clientele; try the local paella!

✦ In Finland we visit a Reindeer Farm for an unforgettablelunch with stories and traditional fish soup. The birdingoutside stretches for miles across a panoramic lakelandcountryside.

This is part of ‘The Heatherlea Way’, to give you the bestavailable holiday content, in comfort, and with excellentsupport from our Guiding team. Heatherlea often includethings which others might invite you to pay yourself, forinstance Departure Tax and tips to hotels, so if comparing besure these ‘extras’ are taken into account!

HEATHERLEA– your natural choice in Europe!

A fantastic holiday featuring many of the key species of far eastern Europe, in a beautifulcountry away from the usual birding venues. This is a comprehensive tour of key habitatsand locations, to see a great deal of the birdlife of Armenia and should appeal particularlyto bird lovers with an eye for culture.

Of over 350 birds recorded in Armenia, more than 200 are breeding, and many will be “lifers”for those who have not visited this remote part of eastern Europe. Among our targets willbe such mouth-watering birds as Marbled Teal, White-headed Duck, Pygmy Cormorant,Collared Pratincole, Caucasian Black Grouse, Caspian Snowcock, Levant Sparrowhawk, White-tailed Lapwing, Armenian Gull, Syrian Woodpecker, Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, Radde’s andAlpine Accentor, White-throated Robin, Finsch’s, Red-tailed Wheatear, Red-breastedFlycatcher, Rosy Starling, Western and Eastern Rock Nuthatch, Caucasian Mountain Chiffchaff,Upcher’s, Eastern Olivaceous, Eastern Orphean, Green and Menetries’s Warbler, Red-frontedSerin, Sombre Tit (these last two species both possible but difficult), Grey-necked andOrtolan Bunting, Armenian Horned Lark, and many more. Many raptors breed here, includingGolden, Lesser-spotted and Eastern Imperial Eagle, Lammergeier, Egyptian, and GriffonVulture, Long-legged and Steppe Buzzard, Lesser Kestrel, Red-footed Falcon, and LevantSparrowhawk, and we expect a total of around 180 species, including many migrants headingnorth in spring.

ARMENIA Relaxed Eastern European birding in a quiet, unspoilt environment

SAT 2 MAY – WED 13 MAY PRICE: £2995pp Single Supplement: £195 Deposit: £800ppLeader Dave Pullan joined by an experienced local guide and translator. Max. 12 clients. Departure from London Heathrow - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.



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Located between Russia and Poland, Belarus contains many prime birding habitats. Its forests, marshes andfenlands remain largely unchanged, and cover a substantial part of eastern Europe. Rich in breeding birds, Belarusis widely tipped to become one of Europe's most popular birding destinations.

This carefully planned itinerary to the forests and marshes of the country formerly known as “White Russia”takes in three main areas: the wonderful wetland reserves of Turau and Sporauski, and the ancient forests ofBielaviezskaja Pusca. During our week we will search for special ‘eastern’ species such as sought-after TerekSandpiper, Great Snipe, Greater Spotted Eagle, Great Grey Owl, Aquatic Warbler, Citrine Wagtail and Azure Tit.Other birds might include Whiskered, Black and White-winged Black Tern, Ruff, which will be in varied breedingplumage, displaying Black-tailed Godwit and Marsh Sandpiper. Corncrake, Little and Spotted Crakes should allbe calling, and we will look for Black and Hazel Grouse. Songbirds might include Marsh and Barred Warblers,Thrush Nightingale, Bluethroat (white-spotted race) and Common Rosefinch with Collared and Red-breastedFlycatchers both occurring. We might add White-backed, Lesser Spotted, Grey-headed, Black and Three-toedWoodpeckers to our list, plus Wryneck while raptors may include Lesser-spotted, Greater-spotted and Short-toed Eagle. The sheer diversity at this exciting time of year makes Belarus a major European destination. Expectbetween 150-175 species including many of the coveted Eastern specialities.

An exciting holiday focusing on the spectacular annual migration of thousands of birds of prey, pelicans, storksand passerines along the Black Sea flyway known as the Via Pontica. First, we visit wetlands around Bourgas, oneof Europe’s richest bird areas with over 340 species recorded, where large flocks of White and Dalmatian Pelicanroost here during migration. At Atanasovsko Lake, a shallow saline lagoon with saltpans, we expect variety withBlack-winged Stilt, Broad-billed and Curlew Sandpiper, Marsh Sandpiper, Kentish Plover, Slender-billed andMediterranean Gull, Gull-billed Tern and many other migrants.

Soaring birds following the coastal flyway in autumn can number in the thousands, and huge numbers of WhiteStork, Lesser Spotted Eagle, Honey Buzzard, Black Stork, Booted Eagle, Short-toed Eagle, Black Kite, Red-footedFalcon, Montagu’s Harrier, and Levant Sparrowhawk take to the air in the right conditions. We also explore coastalriverine forests and sand dunes, and later the oak forests to seek Grey-headed, Middle-spotted and LesserSpotted Woodpecker, Short-toed Treecreeper, Hawfinch and other species.

On a visit to the Black Sea coast, we look for Little Bittern, Ferruginous Duck, Glossy Ibis and Caspian Tern.Shrubland could produce a diversity including Icterine, River and Barred Warbler, Red-breasted Flycatcher,Calandra Lark, Stone Curlew, Isabelline Wheatear, Bee-eater, Tawny and Red-throated Pipit. During spectacularmigrant falls, every bush can hold larks, warblers, chats, buntings and shrikes!

Hunting raptors should include Levant Sparrowhawk, Saker, Red-footed Falcon, Long-legged Buzzard and wemay see Eagle Owl too.

This holiday is suitable for beginners and experts alike, with a range of sought-after birds, plus identificationchallenges and good chances of hard-to-get Eastern scarcities.

BELARUS Exciting eastern birding in the marshes and forests of 'White Russia' SAT 2 MAY – SAT 9 MAY

PRICE: £2395pp Single Supplement: £195 Deposit: £500ppLeader Gerard Gorman joined by local guides. Max 12 clients.Departure from London Heathrow - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

BULGARIA IN AUTUMN Spectacular autumn migration on the Black Sea coast

SAT 5 SEPTEMBER – SAT 12 SEPTEMBER PRICE: £1995pp Single supplement: £130 Deposit: £300pp Leader Toby Green, plus local guide. Max. 12 clients. Departure from Luton - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

Austria is excellent for birding, with several 'eastern' specialities, very diverse habitats including lowland wetlandsand grasslands, vast old conifer and broadleaved forests, flowery pastures and of course the famous Alps. Thescenery is often stunningly beautiful. The pace will be moderate (we will ensure the odd stop for authenticapple or cherry strudel!), with some optional hill walks. We visit when the mountains are free of snow andhence more accessible.

Key birds include; Red-backed Shrike, Red-breasted Flycatcher, Common Rosefinch, Hawfinch, Nutcracker, MiddleSpotted, Lesser Spotted, Grey-headed, Black, Syrian, White-backed and Three-toed Woodpecker, AlpineAccentor, Alpine Chough, Eastern Imperial Eagle, Black Kite, Montagu’s Harrier, Short-eared Owl, Great Bustard,‘blue-headed’ Yellow Wagtail, Hoopoe, Golden Oriole, Bee-eater, River, Marsh, Barred, Icterine, Moustached,Savi’s and Great Reed Warblers, Bluethroat, and both Bearded and Penduline Tits. A wide range of waterbirdsinclude Kentish Plover, Black-tailed Godwit, Common Redshank, Avocet, Black-winged Stilt, Red-crested Pochard,Garganey, Whiskered Tern, and Mediterranean Gull. Hazel Grouse and Eagle Owl are also possible.

This is a seven-day, six-night holiday, allowing time should you wish for an extension in romantic Vienna at theend of the holiday. We will be happy to arrange this for you.

AUSTRIA Brilliant summer birding with an optional Vienna extensionWED 10 JUNE – TUES 16 JUNE

PRICE: £1895pp Single Supplement: £160 Deposit: £300ppLeader Gerard Gorman. Max. 12 clients.

Departure from London Gatwick - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included. Vienna extension available to your specification.



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A ten-day birding tour that combines the highest mountains of Southwestern Bulgaria and the wetlands ofNorthern Greece, including famous Lake Kerkini and the Axios Delta. The timing of this trip and the sheer rangeof habitats covered give us the chance to record somewhere between 180 - 200 species; a very good birdlist withmany eastern species, not easy at all in Europe!

The tour will be split into roughly equal halves in Bulgaria and Greece. The mountains of Bulgaria will give us achance to explore subalpine and woodland meadows, unspoiled coniferous and beech forests, and the river valleysthat drain water from the highest mountains of the Balkans to Northern Greece and the Aegean Sea. One of themain targets here will be to see most of the European woodpecker species (all breed except Iberian Green) alongwith mountain specialists including Hazel Grouse, Pygmy Owl, Spotted Nutcracker, Alpine Chough, Wallcreeperand Shore Lark. Birding in the lowlands and the river valleys of Southwestern Bulgaria should produce good viewsof Short-toed Eagle, Long-legged Buzzard, Griffon Vulture, Calandra Lark, Isabelline Wheatear, Black-headedBunting, Common Rock Sparrow, Sombre Tit and other exciting birds.

Northern Greece is famous for its coastal lagoons and big lakes hosting huge numbers of migratory and residentwater birds. Dalmatian and White Pelican, Pygmy Cormorant, Greater Flamingo, Little Bittern, Purple and SquaccoHerons, Spur-winged Plover, Marsh Sandpiper, Slender-billed Gull, Gull-billed Tern are all likely to feature. Thewood-clad mountains around are home to many raptors including Lesser Spotted Eagle, Booted Eagle, Short-toed Eagle and Black Kite, while the riverine forests support Levant Sparrowhawk and White-tailed Eagle. Thearea has a strong Mediterranean influence that benefits species such as Great Spotted Cuckoo, Olive-tree Warbler,Eastern Orphean Warbler, Masked Shrike, Blue Rock Thrush, Western Rock Nuthatch and Black-eared Wheatear.

BULGARIA & NORTHERN GREECEGreat spring birding from the Bulgarian Mountains to Lake Kerkini

SAT 9 MAY – MON 18 MAY PRICE: £1995pp Single Supplement: £130 Deposit: £300pp Leader Toby Green plus experienced local guide. Max. 12 clients. Departure from London Heathrow - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

Join us in one of Europe’s premier birding destinations just as migration begins. From the sweeping marshes of theCamargue reserve and the surrounding plains of La Crau to the limestone cliffs of Les Alpilles and the mountainslopes of Mont Ventoux, we explore all the special places and key sites, returning in the evening to a lovely cosyhotel and traditional food; Heatherlea aficionados will feel right at home! Winteringspecialities usually include Wallcreeper, Bonelli’s Eagle, Little Bustard, Citril Finch, Eagle Owl,Pin-tailed Sandgrouse, Black Woodpecker, Bluethroat, Alpine Accentor and Penduline Tit anddedicate time to search for them.

Flocks of Greater Flamingo, which can usually be measured in thousands, and we visit in earlyspring, so migrants should be arriving daily to join them on the wetlands. Possibilities includeBlack-necked Grebe, Little Stint, Spotted Redshank, Long-Legged Buzzard, Golden Eagle. RedKite, Yellow-legged and Slender-billed Gull, Little Owl, Crag Martin, Water and Richard’s Pipit,Blue Rock Thrush, Southern Grey Shrike, Crested Tit, Sardinian Warbler, Firecrest, Serin,Hawfinch, Brambling, Common Crossbill, Cirl and Rock Bunting. A tremendous start to youroverseas birding year! Watch out also for the famous Camargue Horses, Camargue Bull, Coypuin ditches, and blundering Wild Boar crashing through vegetation.

CAMARGUE Wonderful early spring birding in the south of France

SAT 7 MARCH – SAT 14 MARCHPRICE: £1895pp Single Supplement: £130 Deposit: £300pp Leader Ian Ford joined by Mike Coleman with more than 7 clients. Max. 12 clients. Departure from London Gatwick - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

An exciting experience in the Canaries! We visit three key islands to find all the endemics, several interestingsubspecies and races, seabirds, and desert species also found in North Africa.

Fuerteventura is a small piece of the Sahara in the sea, mainly covered with shrub steppe, sand dunes and otherdesert habitats. We seek endemic Fuerteventura Chat, Houbara Bustard and Cream-coloured Courser. Otherimportant birds include Barbary Falcon, Barbary Partridge, Black-bellied Sandgrouse, ultramarinus Blue Tit, EgyptianVulture, Lesser Short-toed Lark, Plain Swift, Berthelot's Pipit, Spectacled Warbler and Trumpeter Finch.

In Tenerife we should find endemic Bolles and Laurel Pigeon. We also look for endemic Tenerife Blue Chaffinch,plus local races of Great Spotted Woodpecker and European Robin, and endemic sub-species tintillon CommonChaffinch, teneriffae Goldcrest, teneriffae Blue Tit, Canary Islands Chiffchaff and Canary.

On La Gomera, where the original laurel forest remains very well preserved, good populations of Bolle's and LaurelPigeons occur. The prehistoric ambience is magnified by the dense laurel forest, the silence broken by the song ofCanary Chiffchaff and Blue Tit. Crossing by ferry is itself is a memorable experience, and we watch for petrel species,Cory´s and Manx shearwaters, and Short-finned Pilot Whale and Bottle-nosed Dolphin.

CANARIES Tenerife, La Gomera & Fuerteventura

SAT 22 FEBRUARY – SAT 29 FEBRUARYPRICE: £2295pp Single Supplement: £195 Deposit: £300pp Leader Dave Pullan joined by Toby Green with more than 7 clients. Max. 12 clients. Departure from London Gatwick - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.



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An exciting new short holiday to an under-explored part of Central Europe, ideal for busy birders who want tosee some key European birds in winter. South Moravia is a special region of the Czech Republic rarely visited,though birding can be very rewarding. We seek Wallcreeper, a spectacular bird which winters at low elevationsand can usually be seen well at this time of year. With fewer leaves on trees, we have good chances to seewoodpeckers. Seven species may be found here: Black, Grey-headed, Middle Spotted and Syrian are our maintargets, though Green, Lesser Spotted and Greater Spotted are also present.

Late-February is a great time to visit as winter turns to spring, and South Moravia is blessed with remarkably richand diverse habitats; broadleaved woodlands, floodplain forests, lakes, fishponds, limestone hills, steppegrasslands, meadows, vineyards, orchards, farmlands - and all within a short drive of our base. A wide range ofraptors, wildfowl, passerines and perhaps Eagle Owl will add to the excitement. We will not need to rush around,and the tour will be moderate-paced. With its Mediterranean-like feel, this is the country’s traditional wine area,and we’ll also have the option to visit an old cellar one evening. A wonderful short-break!

Group leader Gerard is a well-known expert Leader based in nearby Budapest. He knows this area very well andis also the author of many well-informed books on the subject of Eastern European birding and woodpeckersin particular. This is a great opportunity to make the most of his excellent local knowledge in a brief period!

NEW! - CZECH REPUBLIC –SOUTH MORAVIAA special Wallcreeper and Woodpecker short break

THURS 27 FEBRUARY – SUN 1 MARCHPRICE: £1195pp Single Supplement: £95 Deposit: £300pp Leader Gerard Gorman joined by Mike Coleman with more than 7 clients. Max. 12 clients. Departure from London Gatwick - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

Estonia is one of Europe’s best destinations for birdwatchers. More than 200 species breed and in spring a heavypassage of wildfowl and waders occurs along the Baltic coast heading north.

This is the smallest and least populated of the Baltic states. About 10% of the country is legally protected forconservation reasons, typified by coast, wetlands and forests. There are thousands of ponds, marshes, bogs andlakes and nearly 1,000 offshore islands and islets. About 40% of the land is covered by forest and 20% by bog, andfarmland is often managed in a low-intensive manner with many acres of hand-mown meadows and lush pastures.This picturesque rustic scenery only enhances the charm of this little-known country, and we aim to explore eachhabitat thoroughly to bring you the very best of the birds – a real Baltic birding bonanza.

Much depends on the passage of spring migrants and the local availability of rare breeding species, and on thiswell planned north-east European adventure we stay in three different locations giving us the best possiblechances of finding specialities. Targets include White-tailed, Golden, Lesser and Greater Spotted Eagle, Montagu’sHarrier, Hazel Grouse, lekking Great Snipe, Red-necked Phalarope, Corncrake, Pygmy, Ural and Tengmalm’s Owl(owls are easier in some other destinations), White-backed, Grey-headed, Black and Three-toed Woodpecker,Thrush Nightingale, Savi’s, Marsh, Barred, Icterine and River Warbler, Citrine Wagtail, Nutcracker, Red-breastedFlycatcher, Common Rosefinch, Red-necked Grebe, Taiga and Tundra Bean Geese, Caspian, Black and White-winged Tern, Temminck’s Stint, Black and White Stork, Red-backed and Great Grey Shrike, Penduline Tit and ParrotCrossbill. Other possible species include Capercaillie, Broad-billed Sandpiper, Golden Oriole and Ortolan Bunting.

This short two-centred holiday will concentrate on owls, woodpeckers and forest species on the mainland, andsea duck and wildfowl on Saaremaa Island - the largest of the Estonian islands, home to some of the most famousbirding sites in the country.We begin on the mainland in forest habitats where Capercaillie and Hazel Grouse may be seen in quiet winteryconditions, Black Grouse will be lekking, and Ural Owl and Pygmy Owl may be calling and defending territories.We may even see Hawk Owl, a scarce winter visitor. March is also a good time to hear woodpeckers drumming,and in the right habitat, we may see Black, Grey-headed, Great Spotted, White-backed, Lesser Spotted, andThree-toed Woodpeckers.In open areas, Rough-legged Buzzard will be hunting, and Common Crane will be returning from further south.If the land is snow-free, other early migrants will also be returning, and there may be a feeling of Spring in theair as Skylark and Lapwing begin to display. Skeins of Bean and Barnacle Geese may be passing over on their waynorth if conditions are right.One of our tour highlights will be to find Steller's Eider. This is one of the most reliable places in Europe to seethis Arctic duck, and up to 1000 birds congregate in tight-knit rafts on the ice-free waters off Saaremaa throughthe winter. We also hope to see Velvet and Common Scoter, Red and Black-throated Diver, Smew, Long-tailed

ESTONIA A Baltic Birding Bonanza

MON 11 MAY – MON 18 MAYPRICE: £2095pp Single Supplement: £165 Deposit: £300pp Leader Mike Coleman, joined by local guide Uku Paal. Max. 12 clients.Departure from London Gatwick - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

Duck, Whooper Swan, Great Crested and Red-necked Grebe and auk species on the sea, and largeflocks of Purple Sandpiper along the coast. Inlandon Saaremaa, we may see Common Redpoll (maybeeven an Arctic Redpoll too), Hawfinch, SnowBunting, Marsh and Willow Tit, and White-tailedEagle in the skies.

ESTONIA – Winter short break Owls, woodpeckers and Arctic ducks

THURS 26 MARCH – TUES 31 MARCH PRICE: £1695pp Single Supplement: £125 Deposit: £300pp Leader Mike Coleman, joined by local guide Uku Paal. Max. 12 clients. Departure from London Gatwick - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.


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On this exciting six-day tour to the land of the midnight sun we divide our time between Finnish Laplandand the Varanger Peninsula, the latter situated some 400km inside the Arctic Circle. The holiday is land-based, beginning at Ivalo, and driving north towards the Finnish/Norwegian border and beyond,overnighting at the fishing town of Batsfjord before continuing to the wildlife rich Varanger Fjord. Theweather and key sightings will help dictate our exact itinerary, featuring plans to explore the Lappishforests and bogs, the snowy highlands and a memorable boat trip to see large seabird colonies onHornøya Island.

Speciality northern birds such as Gyrfalcon, White-billed Diver, Brünnich’s Guillemot, Siberian Jay, SiberianTit, Pine Grosbeak and any available owls will be prime targets. The time of year offers good chances ofseeing both King and stunning Steller’s Eider while other key birds should include Long-tailed Skua,Golden Eagle, Ptarmigan, Smew and Dotterel. Breath-taking birding in a magical northern landscape!

NEW! FINLAND AND NORTHERN NORWAY Early Summer birding in Finnish Lapland and Norway

FRI 15 MAY – WED 20 MAY PRICE: £2995pp Single supplement: £195 Deposit £500pp Leader Peter Cosgrove, plus Tero Linjama from Finnature. Max. 12 clients. Departure from London Heathrow or Edinburgh. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge areincluded.

A birding trip for a wide range of key European species. During our first two days we target Eagle, Great Grey, Ural,Tengmalm’s, Hawk, Long-eared, Short-eared and Pygmy Owl, and also look for Montagu’s and Pallid Harriers. Migrant andbreeding waders feature with Greenshank, Black-tailed Godwit, Spotted Redshank, Ruff, and rare Broad-billed and TerekSandpiper possible with booming Bittern, calling Corncrake, Caspian Tern, Whooper Swan, Common Crane, Garganey,Dipper, Citrine Wagtail in similar habitats. A few pairs of Red-backed Shrikes breed, and other key birds include White-tailedEagle and forests give our first chance of Three-toed and Black Woodpecker, Black and Hazel Grouse and Capercaillie. ‘Nightsingers’ can include Thrush Nightingale, Blyth’s Reed Warbler. We also visit a hide to see Ruff at the lek, an unforgettableexperience, popular with photographers!

Our second centre is in Kuusamo, Finland’s top birding destination. En-route we have a delicious lunch at a Reindeer farm,then begin a feast of birding! Vast forests hold Capercaillie and Black, Willow and Hazel Grouse, breeding Goldeneye,Wood Sandpiper and Brambling, though the real draw is the list of eastern and northern species. Possibilities include Red-flanked Bluetail, Little and Rustic Bunting, Greenish Warbler, Siberian Tit and Siberian Jay. Among the other birds we mightsee are Bohemian Waxwing, Great Grey Shrike, Red-necked Grebe, Common Rosefinch, Pine Grosbeak, Two-barred Crossbilland Parrot Crossbill. Black and Three-toed Woodpecker and Little Gull breed here too.

Late nights help us enjoy brilliant birding throughout, though there will be the opportunity to rest up in the afternoon onsome days.

FINLAND – LATE SPRING BIRDING Great birding with chances of all the northern Scandinavian specials!

WED 20 MAY – TUE 26 MAY PRICE: £3095pp Single supplement: £275 Deposit £500pp Leader Peter Cosgrove, plus Tero Linjama from Finnature. Max. 12 clients. Departure from LondonHeathrow or Edinburgh. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

NEW! ‘GRAND TOUR’ of FINLAND & NORWAY

Newly arrived migrants should be freshly onto territory, and we’ll search andlisten for vocal songsters in woodlands and wetland sites. Targets includeThrush Nightingale, Icterine, Great Reed, Blyth’s Reed, Marsh and perhaps RiverWarbler and a range of other possibilities. With a brief tour of the majorsightseeing locations in Helsinki, this is a fine conclusion to our ‘Grand Tour’!

NEW! HELSINKI EXTENSION TUES 26 MAY – THURS 28 MAY PRICE INCLUDED IN ‘GRAND TOUR’.

15 MAY - 20 MAY 2020 FINLAND AND NORTHERN NORWAY 20 MAY - 26 MAY 2020 FINLAND LATE SPRING BIRDING26 MAY - 28 MAY 2020 HELSINKI EXTENSIONPRICE: £5995pp Single supplement: £495 Deposit: £1000pp Leader Peter Cosgrove, plus Tero Linjama from Finnature. Max. 12clients. Departure from London Heathrow or Edinburgh. Pre-flightairport hotel and lounge are included.

A tremendous and unprecedented opportunity to see all the keybirds of northern Scandinavia on one tour. We begin in the land ofthe midnight sun, birding Finnish Lapland and the Varanger Peninsulasituated some 400km inside the Arctic Circle. Next we enjoy greatbirding in northern Finland rounding up many specialities, followedby a unique short extension in Helsinki for late-arriving southernbreeders. The first two elements can be taken separately should youwish.



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Our main focus on this three-centre holiday is the spectacular migration of Common Cranesthrough the Hortobagy National Park in eastern Hungary, one of Europe’s great birdingexperiences. Each autumn up to 70,000 of these elegant birds from Fenno-Scandia, the BalticStates, Poland and elsewhere in northern Europe congregate here. We will see cranes flying toroost at dusk in vast skeins and feeding by day in crop fields. There are also special resident birdsincluding Great Bustard, Saker Falcon, White-tailed and Eastern Imperial Eagle, eight species ofwoodpecker including White-backed, Middle-spotted, Grey-headed, Syrian and Black, and earlywinter visitors such as Great Grey Shrike. A highlight is a visit to a Long-eared Owl roost in aremote village, with sometimes up to 30 birds present. Plentiful wildfowl should include the firstRussian White-fronts and perhaps some Tundra and Taiga Bean Geese. Other birds should includeHawfinch, Black Redstart, Red-throated Pipit, Serin, Rock Bunting, Short-toed Treecreeper, MarshHarrier, Penduline Tit, Stone Curlew and Dotterel. A tremendous autumn feast of birds!

This unique holiday is a complete tour of the Land of Fire and Ice. Our trip is designed to give you the verybest, as we stay in three centres in an unforgettable and thorough exploration. Want to ‘do’ Iceland? Look nofurther!

Amid dramatic landscapes, we seek Gyrfalcon, Red-necked Phalarope, Great Northern and Red-throated Diver, dazzling Harlequin Duck and Barrow’s Goldeneye. We cover all the birdlife, includingWhite-tailed Eagle, Ptarmigan, Brünnich’s Guillemot, Snow Bunting, Whimbrel, Black-tailed Godwitand Arctic and Great Skua. Recent trips have produced rarities including Ring-necked Duck, LesserScaup, American Wigeon and King Eider.

We also enjoy three whale-watching trips – giving fantastic chances to see Orca, Humpback andMinke Whale, White-beaked Dolphin, and Harbour Porpoise. We may see mighty Blue Whale, plusSperm, Fin and Sei Whales, and Bottle-nosed and White-sided Dolphins, as these mammalscongregate in the food-rich waters of the North Atlantic.

Later, you will see the hot spring area of Hveravellir, the dramatic glacial river falls of Gullfoss, thefamous geysers at Geysir, and the glaciers, waterfalls and active volcanoes of Eyjafjallajökull andHekla. The tumbled moraines provide much of interest for botanists and geologists.

A two-centre tour of the southern coast of the Emerald Isle, from County Cork to County Wexford. We runthis holiday in a similar style to our popular Scottish ‘ for Birders’ tours, seeking rarities in under-watchedcoastal locations.At this time migrant waders are at their peak, and we hope to find a range that may include anAmerican vagrant. In Cork, we cover many famous birding sites, and though our itinerary dependson weather, tides and recent sightings, Mizen Head, Rosscarbery and Cobh Harbour all have lists ofmouth-watering rarities over the years. Ballycotton is another of the best sites, with annual recordsof Semipalmated Sandpiper, American Golden Plover, Pectoral Sandpiper and Lesser Yellowlegs.An exciting aspect is our dedicated pelagic boat trip into the Atlantic, chumming from the boat todraw in a range of rare birds. Top targets are Wilson’s Petrel and Great Shearwater, though anynumber of petrels, shearwaters, skuas and auks are possible, with chances of common and rarecetaceans.Another draw is our day trip to Cape Clear, accessed by foot ferry. This is the most southerly pointof Ireland, famous for rare birds, and has produced some huge rarities at this time, with NorthernWaterthrush, Yellow Warbler and Solitary Sandpiper all in the last decade. We will spend severalhours on foot, checking out the sparse cover and hope to find a rare passerine or two!Once over into Wexford we have two full days birding, covering the famous sites of TacumshinMarsh, Lady’s Island Lake, Rosslare Harbour and Hook Head amongst others. Superb birding in abeautiful country!

ICELAND IN SUMMER Birds, cetaceans and geology - ‘Complete Iceland’

MON 20 JULY – MON 27 JULY PRICE: £2995pp Single Supplement: £310 Deposit: £500pp Leader Dave Pullan joined by Toby Green with more than 7 clients. Max. 12 clients.Departure from London - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

HUNGARY IN AUTUMN Spectacular Crane migration and the best of autumn birding

THURS 1 OCTOBER – THURS 8 OCTOBER PRICE: £1895pp Single Supplement: £140 Deposit: £300pp Leader Gerard Gorman joined by another from our experienced Heatherlea team with more than 7 clients. Max. 12 clients. Departure from London Gatwick - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

IRELAND FOR BIRDERS Migration in County Cork and County Wexford

SAT 22 AUGUST – SAT 29 AUGUST, SAT 29 AUGUST – SAT 5 SEPTEMBER PRICE: £2095pp Single Supplement: £210 Deposit: £300pp Leader Mark Warren joined by another from our team with more than 7 clients. Max.12 clients. Departure from London Heathrow - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.



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A very different and relaxing holiday, combining birding with culture.Specialities of this vast wetland include Black-necked Grebe, Pygmy Cormorant, Purple, Night and SquaccoHeron, Glossy Ibis, Spoonbill, Greater Flamingo, Lesser Kestrel, Ferruginous Duck, Red-crested Pochard, LittleBittern, Marsh Harrier, Marsh, Green and Wood Sandpiper, Avocet, Kentish Plover, Little Stint, Whimbrel, Caspianand Gull-billed Tern, Mediterranean Gull, Wryneck, Black Redstart, Sardinian Warbler, Penduline Tit, Serin, HoneyBuzzard, Black Kite, White Stork, Black Stork, Bee-eater, Hoopoe and several races of Yellow Wagtail on passageto more northerly breeding grounds. We may also take a boat trip into the shallow Adriatic lagoon to seebreeding Slender-billed Gull, depending upon availability.We may be joined by top local birder Menotti Passarella, who always produces fascinating birding, often withaccess to places not normally open to the public. Our lovely hotel is a major element of our holiday experience,everyone who has joined this holiday has loved this delightful venue. Breakfasts are expansive and luxurious, andevening meals superb. A real treat, and very much a taste of rural Italy.After birding, we take you to Rome, to enjoy the city’s timeless wonder. Enjoy the Colosseum, the Roman Forum,visit the Parthenon and Trevi Fountain, and relax around St Peter’s Square and see the Sistine Chapel when youvisit Vatican City. We stay centrally, and your guides will arrange transfers including to the airport at the end ofthe holiday.

This is an exciting time of year when virtually anything can happen, as many thousands of birds pass through theisland, resting and feeding before continuing to mainland Europe. Unexpected rarities can occur anywhere, andthere are excellent ‘migrant traps’ such as the fig orchards and fields at Casas Veyas and the Boquer Valley. Rareand much sought species include Black Vulture, Balearic and Moustached Warbler while species seen infrequentlyin the UK include Balearic Woodchat Shrike, Golden Oriole, Bee-eater, Roller, Wryneck and Firecrest. ElegantEleonora’s Falcon, Egyptian Vulture, Short-toed Eagle and Red-footed Falcon occupy the skies along with manyhundreds of Honey Buzzards at one time! A huge variety of water birds and passerines, both resident and migrantcan also be present and we will be sure of great birding each day. Our base for the week is a family-run hotel in a small village in the north of Mallorca, very conveniently placedfor transfer to migration hotspots, yet away from busy tourist areas. Perfectly positioned to visit the mountain,marsh and coastal habitats of the northern part of the island, and with little physical effort, we’ll be able to enjoysome of Europe’s most sought-after species amid beautiful scenery. This trip is ideal for those who want toexperience the thrill of spring migration at its best, for those who are new to European birding and want to seemany of the most iconic species, and for those with more experience who want to ‘fill-in’ a few gaps whileenjoying warm spring sunshine on a relaxing and laid-back holiday. This gently paced tour has a potential list ofover 120 species and a major objective is for everyone to get good views of as many of these as possible.

Portugal has a warm climate, superb scenery and an impressive diversity of breeding birds, which includes anumber of species with restricted range in Europe. We have organised this spring tour to the south to include awide diversity of birds in a mixture of wetlands, grasslands, oak forest, scrub, heath and rocky habitats.

Highlights might include some of the numerous raptors; Bonelli’s, Booted, Short-toed, Golden and SpanishImperial Eagles, Griffon and Black Vultures, Black-winged Kite, Montagu’s Harrier and Lesser Kestrel. Wetlandsfeature heavily and will be busy with breeding and migratory birds such as Purple Heron, Little Bittern, BlackStork, Purple Gallinule, Audouin’s and Slender-billed Gull, Caspian, Little and Gull-billed Terns, Collared Pratincoleand a good selection of passage waders. Open country and scrub birds should include impressive numbers ofGreat and Little Bustard on the ’Steppe’, plus Black-bellied Sandgrouse, Stone Curlew, Great-spotted Cuckoo,Red-necked Nightjar, Roller, Pallid and White-rumped Swift, Calandra, Thekla, Short-toed and Lesser Short-toedLark, Tawny Pipit, Red-rumped Swallow, Black-eared Wheatear, Rufous Bush Robin, Blue Rock Thrush, Orphean,Subalpine and Spectacled Warbler, Iberian Chiffchaff, Woodchat and Iberian Grey Shrike, Iberian Magpie, Cirl andRock Bunting. In addition to first class birding, this tour promises a fine show of spring flowers including Orchids,plentiful sunshine and the opportunity to sample Portuguese wines and tasty local cooking.

MALLORCA Birds of prey, bustards, sandgrouse and brilliant Spanish spring birding

SAT 18 APRIL – SAT 25 APRIL PRICE: £1895pp Single Supplement: £145 Deposit: £300pp Leader Dave Pullan joined by Bernie Forbes with more than 7 clients. Max. 12 clients. Departures from London Gatwick - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

PORTUGAL IN SPRING Iberian Specialities and Spring Migration

SAT 25 APRIL – SAT 2 MAY PRICE: £1795pp Single supplement: £145 Deposit: £300pp Leader Mark Warren joined by local guide Hugo Sampaio with more than 7 clients. Max. 12 clients. Departure from London Gatwick - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

NEW! - ITALY – PO DELTA AND ROME Great birding short break in one ofEurope’s most important National Parks, followed by a few days in Rome

WED 1 APRIL – WED 8 APRILPRICE: £2095pp Single Supplement: £145 Deposit: £300pp Leader Scott O’Hara joined by Mike Coleman with more than 7 clients. Max. 12 clients.Departure from London Gatwick - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.



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A destination ideal for birders who want to enjoy spring migration onan island unspoilt by tourism, without crowds of birders. Comparisonswith nearby Lesvos are inevitable; basically, Skyros is smaller, with lesscover. There will probably be fewer species (about 100) but birds aremore concentrated and conspicuous here.

Skyros sits far out in the Aegean, highly visible to migrant birdsbecause of its dominant mountain rising sharply from sea level. Birdsdrop in to sparse cover and small wetlands where they arebottlenecked and easy to see. Fertile areas are greenest in late April,at peak migration time, so birds rest to feed before moving on. Withits location and topography falls of migrants are highly possible, andbirding can be exciting. We visit a variety of interesting habitatsincluding rocky heaths and scrub, fields, groves and wetlands, gnarledoaks and maples in the valleys, open slopes, rocky streams and coastalmouths, and of course the open sea. Among the highlights will be ourboat charter taking in the rugged coastline and off-shore islets wherewe will hope to enjoy spectacular views of the largest single breedingcolony of Eleonara’s Falcons in the world! We may also see Blue RockThrush, Audouin’s Gull, Yelkouan and Scapoli’s Shearwater, plusdolphins and the critically endangered Monk Seal.

Close birding will include a wide range of spring migrants withnumerous warblers, Collared, Pied and Spotted Flycatchers Woodchatand Red-backed Shrike, Bee-eater, Golden Oriole, pipits, larks andhirundines plus waders and herons arriving daily. Cretzschmar’sBunting favour the rugged south of the island where we may also seeAlpine Swift, Eastern Subalpine Warbler and Little Owl. Among theraptors will be Bonelli’s Eagle, Pallid, Montagu’s and Marsh Harrier,Long-legged and Honey Buzzard, Red-footed Falcon and (scarce)Levant Sparrowhawk - absorbing birding in a lovely location. In theevenings, we eat at tavernas on a relaxed itinerary which will give youtime to explore (or keep birding!) as you choose. If you want springmigration in a quiet and unspoilt place, this is it!

SKYROS Relaxed spring birding on an ‘undiscovered’ Greek island in the heart of the Aegean Sea

WED 22 APRIL – WED 29 APRIL PRICE: £1995pp Single Supplement: £160 Deposit: £300pp Leader Scott O’Hara joined by another from our experienced Heatherlea team with more than 7clients. Departure from London Heathrow - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

More raptors migrate across the Straits of Gibraltar annually than atany other site in Europe. A daily stream of thousands filtersouthwards through Spain, with concentrations in different placesaccording to the weather. If unsuitable for passage, birds continue tofunnel into the area each day until there may be 10,000 individualswaiting to cross. Our main focus is spectacular migration watchingfrom a variety of viewpoints on the Spanish side of the Straits. Theremay also be significant passerine migration, and we also take time tofind key local resident birds rare or unknown elsewhere in Europe.

Target raptors include Honey Buzzard, Black and Red Kite, Egyptianand Griffon Vulture, Short-toed, Bonelli’s, Booted Eagle, Montagu’sHarrier, Lesser Kestrel and possibly Golden Eagle, Black Vulture, Black-winged Kite, and Long-legged Buzzard too. Other birds include manyWhite and Black Stork, White-headed Duck, Purple Gallinule, GreaterFlamingo, Glossy Ibis and Penduline Tit in the wet ‘marismas’, Balearicand Cory’s Shearwater, Audouin’s and Slender-billed Gull, Caspian andLesser Crested Tern on the coast, Iberian Magpie, Spotless Starlingand Spanish Sparrow inland and migrating Alpine and Swift, CragMartin, Red-rumped Swallow, Hoopoe and Bee-eater.

SPAIN - ANDALUCIA Iberian specialities and autumn migration!

SAT 5 SEPTEMBER – SAT 12 SEPTEMBER 2020PRICE: £1795pp Single Supplement: £150 Deposit: £300pp Leader Sergi Sales joined by another from our experienced Heatherlea team with more than 7 clients. Max.12 clients. Departure from London Gatwick - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.


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Outstanding European birding covering an impressive number of targets indelightful places, at the time of peak migration, this exceptional eight-nightadventure features days full of birdsong and breeding display. Kevin says: 'I spenta few days in the Delta in Sept 2017, and a few more in the steppes around Lleidain April 2018 to put this holiday together. The birding is truly exceptional in bothlocations, the two hotels are just right, the temperature isn't too hot and the birdsare active. The excitement of migration adds an important extra element!'

In the Ebro Delta spring birding is wonderful. Ideally situated on the northernMediterranean coast, and easy to reach just two hours south of Barcelona, wherewe should see up to 25 wader and 7 heron species! Large numbers of Slender-billed, Mediterranean and Audouin's Gull occur along with many hundreds ofbreeding birds include Whiskered, Gull-billed and (passage) Caspian Tern, Black-winged Stilt, Greater Flamingo, three egrets, Purple Heron, Black-crowned NightHeron, Kingfisher, Glossy Ibis, Spoonbill, Squacco Heron, Little Bittern, CollaredPratincole, Purple Gallinule. Reed Bunting (of the rare witherbyii subspecies),Penduline Tit, Savi’s, Moustached and Great Reed Warbler, Red-crested Pochard,Curlew Sandpiper, Little Stint and Whimbrel may also feature during their longmigration.

We search for warblers, chats and flycatchers passing through, perhaps in number,and small clumps of scrubby bushes close to the beach can hold falls includingWoodchat Shrike, Western Subalpine Warbler, Common Redstart, PiedFlycatcher, Hoopoe and more. At dusk we might search for local breeding Long-eared Owl or perhaps a vocal Scops Owl.

We travel north-east via mountainous Els Port, including a visit to a spectacularvulture feeding station where there may be many dozen Griffon Vulture at closequarters. Other birds today may include Booted, Short-toed, Golden and Bonelli’sEagle, Egyptian Vulture, Black Kite, Peregrine, Firecrest, Short-toed Treecreeper,Serin, Red-billed Chough, Blue Rock Thrush, Rock Bunting, Rock Sparrow and

CATALONIA AND SOUTH-EAST ARAGON Superb spring birding from the Ebro Delta to the pre-Pyrenees.

WED 22 APRIL – THURS 30 APRILPRICE: £1995pp Single Supplement: £270 Deposit: £300pp Leader Ian Ford plus expert local Guide Sergi Sales with more than 7 clients. Max. 12 clients. Departure from London Gatwick - otherregional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel andlounge are included.

Crag Martin. We also hope to see rare and beautiful Spanish Ibex, and thereshould be excellent chances for photography.

Next, we transfer inland to enjoy outstanding birding in plain, steppe andmountain areas. Key birds include Little Bustard, Black-bellied and Pin-tailedSandgrouse, Lammergeier and many, many more, including Booted, Bonelli's,Short-toed and Golden Eagle, Black and Egyptian Vulture. Brightly colouredRoller, Bee-eater, Hoopoe and Golden Oriole can be seen, plus warblers includingMoustached, Melodious, Western Bonelli's, Great Reed, Western Subalpine,Western Orphean, Cetti's and Spectacled, larks including Calandra, Thekla, Short-toed and Lesser Short-toed, Black Wheatear, Pallid Swift, Penduline Tit, CirlBunting, Turtle Dove, Stone Curlew, Woodchat and Iberian Grey Shrike, Eagle andLittle Owl, Iberian Green Woodpecker, Great Spotted Cuckoo … the list goes on!We have good chances of both Great Bustard and Dupont's Lark, and even anoutside chance of Wallcreeper. A true birding feast on one of the very bestEuropean itineraries available.

We may also have extra birding opportunities on arrival and departure days, tohelp us towards a total of well over 150 and perhaps as many as 180 species. Westay in two rural Catalonian hotels with excellent birding close at hand and wherelocals form most of the clientele, featuring genuine Catalan dishes in placeswhere the English language is rarely heard. A fascinating and very rewardingholiday!

A delightful holiday in late spring early summer to see both birds and butterflies.Habitats include dry sedimentary cliffs and scrub, rich mixed deciduous forestextending high up the slopes, alpine grasslands and meadows, steppe landscapescombining rich bushland, traditional farming areas, natural steppe patches, andriverside forests and slopes recovering from recent fires. These places hold avariety of birds and butterflies, including many highly desirable yet hard to findkey species.

Birding should produce a varied selection of western European specialitiesincluding Lammergeier, Little Bustard, Black-bellied and Pin-tailed Sandgrouse,Egyptian Vulture, Short-toed and Golden Eagle, Eurasian Griffon, Black Kite,Montagu’s Harrier, Eagle Owl, Lesser Kestrel, Black Woodpecker, Wryneck, Roller,Bee-eater, Turtle Dove, Calandra, Thekla, Short-toed and Lesser Short-toed Lark,Alpine Swift, Red-rumped Swallow, Iberian Grey Shrike, Alpine and Red-billedChough, Rufous-tailed and Blue Rock Thrush, Black Wheatear, Spectacled,Western Subalpine, Melodious, Dartford and Orphean Warbler, Crested Tit,

NEW! SPAIN – FOR BIRDS AND BUTTERFLIES Relaxed days enjoying birds and butterflies

SAT 23 MAY – FRI 29 MAYPRICE: £1695pp Single Supplement: £125 Deposit: £300pp Leaders Ian Ford and local Catalunian expert Carles Oliver with more than 7 clients. Max. 12 clients. Departure from London Gatwick - other regional departures may be available.Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

Firecrest, Short-toed Treecreeper, Citril Finch, Ortolan and Rock Bunting, andone morning we will look for scarce and difficult to find Tengmalm’s Owl.

Butterflies include Apollo, Two-tailed Pasha, European, Spanish and ScarceSwallowtail, Cleopatra, Duke of Burgundy, Lesser Purple Emperor, CamberwellBeauty, Mountain Small White, Western Dappled White, Moroccan Orange Tip,Mountain Clouded Yellow, Knapweed, Niobe, Spotted, Glanville, Lesser Spottedand Queen of Spain Fritillary, Lefèbvre`s Ringlet, Pyrenees Grassy Ringlet,Piedmont Ringlet, Iberian Marbled White, Dusky and Pearly Heath, Rock Grayling,Large Grizzled and Southern Marbled Skipper, Turquoise, Baton, Little and iflucky, Gavarnie Blue. We enjoy good quality accommodation and foodthroughout.

SPAIN – CATALONIATwo fabulous holidays in this highly rewarding region, where habitats range from the highmountains of the Pyrenees to the extensive wetlands of the Ebro Delta. Resident andmigratory birds are numerous, and many European specialities can be found. If you haven’tbirded this region before, or even if you know it well, these holidays offer a wealth offascinating and much sought-after birdlife.


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Some of the best birding in Europe, featuring many rare and endangered species. We expect outstanding raptorwatching with all five Spanish eagles; Bonelli’s, Golden, Booted, Short-toed and endangered Spanish Imperial, andthree vultures; Black, Egyptian and Griffon. We watch the spectacular breeding display of Great Bustard, and alsoseek Little Bustard, Black-bellied and Pin-tailed Sandgrouse. Other sought after species include Montagu’s Harrier,Lesser Kestrel, Stone Curlew, Collared Pratincole, Bee-eater, Roller, Hoopoe, Black and Black-eared Wheatear,Rock Bunting, Iberian Grey Shrike, Little Owl, Alpine Swift, Red-rumped Swallow, Calandra and Short-toed Lark,Woodlark, Tawny Pipit, Great Spotted Cuckoo, Woodchat Shrike, Crested Tit, Rock Sparrow, Hawfinch, PendulineTit, Little Bittern and we should see both White and Black Stork at the nest. Red-billed Chough, Blue Rock Thrush, Crag Martin, Eagle Owl with chicks, and beautiful southern specialitiesincluding Black-shouldered Kite and Iberian Magpie are all targeted. Great Spotted Cuckoo, Purple Heron, SpanishSparrow and Savi’s, Sardinian, Western Bonelli’s, Western Subalpine, Dartford, Spectacled, Western Orphean,Melodious, and perhaps shy Western Olivaceous Warbler, you won’t believe how many birds there are! We stayin a comfortable, local hotel with all rooms en suite.

This holiday is an exciting wildlife experience, as we target some of Spain’s most sought after montane andforest birds coupled with excellent chances of seeing Iberian Brown Bear in the wild.This is a two-centre holiday. Our first base is in the Somiedo Nature Park, where we target Brown Bear andraptors including Egyptian Vulture, Short-toed and Booted Eagle. Other birds of note might include Blue RockThrush, Woodlark, Crested Tit, Short-toed Treecreeper, Golden Oriole, Water Pipit, Rock Bunting, Firecrestand Black Woodpecker.In the evening and again in the early morning we go bear watching to see Iberian Brown Bears in their wildenvironment. On this holiday we do not use hides or maize/honey baiting. This means we may take longerto find bears than under controlled conditions, but the genuine natural experience is worth the effort.We use optics to view the animals and to respect their wild status.Our second base is high in the Picos de Europa, where we will be birding for key species including White-winged Snowfinch, Wallcreeper, Alpine Accentor, Red-billed Chough and Alpine Chough. The scenery isspectacular, walking relatively easy, and the birding promises to be memorable.We stay in family-run hotels with a real feel of Spain. Your leaders are experienced birders in this part ofthe world, with excellent local contacts for birds and bears. Those Heatherlea clients who have enjoyedour Spanish birding and Lynx holidays should have a feeling of deja-vu on this relaxed and exciting itinerary!

SPAIN - PICOS MOUNTAINS Birding and Cantabrian Brown Bear

FRI 28 AUGUST– FRI 4 SEPTEMBER PRICE: £2095pp Single supplement: £130 Deposit: £300pp Leader Sergi Sales plus another from our experienced Heatherlea team with more than 7 clients.Max 12 clients. Departure from London Stansted - other regional departures may be available.Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

SPAIN - EXTREMADURA Birds of prey, bustards, sandgrouse and brilliant birding

SAT 18 APRIL – SAT 25 APRIL PRICE: £1895pp Single Supplement: £145 Deposit: £300pp Leader Toby Green joined by Barry Embling with more than 7 clients. Max. 12 clients. Departure from London Gatwick - other regional departures may be available.Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

This is a combined birding and mammal trip in the mild winter of southern Spain, with a special focus on seeingendangered Iberian Lynx in the wild. We think this itinerary is one of the best available for this beautiful yetelusive cat, as it includes two classic Spanish destinations, giving you more opportunities to see the animals thanalternative itineraries based solely in Andujar. This two-centre holiday also includes time in Coto Donana forsome excellent birding. We begin by looking for White-headed Duck as we transfer to Coto Donana, where we explore the mosaic ofmarshes, pine woodland, open heathland and sand dunes at one of the best times to visit. Expect large numbersof gulls, waders, herons and egrets, plus White Stork, Glossy Ibis and Spoonbill and the opportunity to see keySpanish specialties, in particular Purple Gallinule, Marbled Teal, Red-knobbed Coot and rare Spanish ImperialEagle. Some breeding raptors are back on territory or passing on migration and the whole area is full of birds. Our second centre is in Sierra de Andújar. This beautiful mountain chain holds the largest remaining Lynxpopulation in Spain, now critically endangered and increasingly difficult to see, though our local contacts areextensive, and on previous visits we have always succeeded. We search for these rare animals in quiet places awayfrom the crowds at public viewpoints, though we will take part in joint efforts at key places too! We may alsosee Red and Fallow Deer, Mouflon, Otter, and Wild Boar. Birds here include Griffon and Black Vultures, SpanishImperial Eagle, Iberian Magpie, and Black Wheatear. Expect around 120 –140 bird species in total. This is a relaxed and interesting itinerary, with good birding and mammal watching in a pleasant climate. Our small,exclusive group visits isolated places in incredible landscapes, and our rural hotels give a real feel of Spain.

SPAIN - BIRDING and LYNX Endangered Iberian Lynx plus superb birding in Coto Donana

SAT 11 JANUARY – SAT 18 JANUARYPRICE: £1845pp Single Supplement: £150 Deposit: £300pp Leader Dave Pullan joined by Sergi Sales with more than 7 clients. Max. 12 clients. Departure from London Gatwick - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.



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This fantastic trip is focused on Scandinavia's specialities, and we seek these special birds in one of the wildestEuropean environments amid an incredible snowy landscape.

Winter Birding in Scandinavia is completely different when compared to spring, indeed Northern Hawk Owl, SiberianJay and Pine Grosbeak are only available in Central Sweden at this time of year. Based close to Stockholm, we birdmainly in the Taiga forests for owls, woodpeckers, raptors and grouse, and highly sought-after passerines. Nomadicby nature, the Owls are top targets and once they find good feeding are often reliable to winter territories wherewe may enjoy special encounters. We divide our time between searching for them, visiting feeding stations andtaking forest walks. We also visit the Baltic Coast, where masses of waterfowl including Long-tailed Duck and Smewcan be seen, and where raptors including White-tailed Eagle and Goshawk hunt. We may also encounter hugeEuropean Elk, Roe Deer and Red Fox, while a darker variant of our Red Squirrel resides in the woods.

Sweden is a vast country with tricky terrain to negotiate at times, so please be aware of lengthy drives andchallenging walks requiring a reasonable level of fitness.

Top targets;Owls – Pygmy and Northern Hawk are keytargets, Great Grey, Ural, Eagle, Long-eared andShort-eared, Tawny and Tengmalm’s are possible.

Woodpeckers – Six species are present, Black,Grey-headed, Green, Three-toed, Great Spottedand Lesser Spotted.

Siberian Jay and Nutcracker at feeding stations.

Capercaillie, Black Grouse and if we’re luckyHazel Hen.

In one of the last great wildernesses on Earth, only 600 miles from the North Pole, nothing can prepare you foryour first Polar Bear, undisputed king of the Arctic. Expect prolonged views at close quarters, and fantasticsightings. Our time with Walrus can also be unforgettable; these massive animals can be just a few feet away,another great wildlife experience. We take advantage of long daylight hours at the height of the breeding season. Countless seabirds nest onspectacular cliffs, and we watch Little Auk, Ivory Gull, Grey Phalarope, King Eider, Long-tailed Skua and Brünnich’sGuillemot amongst the variety of ducks, geese and seabirds. Sabine’s Gull and American vagrants are also verylikely, and we should also see Arctic Fox, Svalbard Reindeer, four species of seal, beautiful Beluga and MinkeWhale and perhaps other cetaceans including Fin Whale. You will never forget the wonderful wildlife of thisharsh, beautiful landscape. Our vessel is ice-strengthened and ideal for this voyage, and we use inflatable zodiacs amongst the ice-floes tospend as much time ashore as possible. Expect a friendly intimate atmosphere in a cosy and comfortable onboardenvironment. This is not to be missed; come and join us for the Arctic wildlife trip of a lifetime!

Raptors – Golden and White-tailed Eagles, Rough-legged Buzzard and Goshawk.

Great Grey Shrikes, Waxwings and even ArcticRedpolls and Pine Grosbeaks in influx years.

Coastal wildfowl including impressive gatherings ofSmew.

Please note: this is an ambitious list! Weather andlocal conditions apply as always, and we estimate wemight achieve around two-thirds of our top targets.

SWEDEN for BIRDERS in WINTER Winter woodpeckers, owls and otherScandinavian specialities

SAT 1 FEBRUARY – THURS 6 FEBRUARYPRICE: £2195pp Single Supplement: £295 Deposit: £300pp Leader Mark Warren joined by Toby Green with more than 7 clients. Max. 12 clients.Departure from London - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

SVALBARD Polar Bear, Walrus and birdlife in an incredible Arctic wilderness

WED 3 JUNE – WED 10 JUNE (other dates available)PRICES FROM £3995pp based on twin cabin with porthole Deposit: £800pp Leaders from Oceanwide Expeditions, joined by one of our experienced Heatherlea leaders with more than 8 clients. Flights not included.


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Every holiday is carefully planned to give you a memorable wildlifeexperience, all part of ‘The Heatherlea Way’, which gives you the bestavailable content, in comfort, and with excellent support. Most are led byone of our regular Guiding Team travelling from the UK, though some arebased in the destination country, and with more than seven clients youwill usually have two Guides.

On ‘long-haul’ holidays, it is particularly important to choose an operatorwith good back-up services. With Heatherlea, hotels, meals and activitiesare usually booked directly in the destination country, helping to guaranteesmooth running, and we employ very experienced local ground agents,who offer a warm welcome, and who give invaluable advantages whichwill enhance your holiday, particularly when we need to find difficult-to-see wildlife. We have a highly experienced and capable team throughoutthe world, and the emphasis is firmly on personal attention, with our UKoffice available at short notice for tour operations. Also, Heatherlea ofteninclude things which others might invite you to pay yourself, for instanceDeparture Taxes, tips to hotels, a night walk, or a boat safari through primehabitat. The cost of these things can be significant, so if comparing, takethem into account!

We are your complete holiday provider, offering upgrades, seat selection,catering for in-flight dietary requirements, and other services so you canfeel relaxed and comfortable whatever your needs on a long flight. Shouldyou wish to extend the advertised holiday, our ATOL protection coversyour full holiday package, and our ‘Pre-flight Service’ makes arrival at thedeparture gate easier – you can read more on page 6. Many holidays beginwith a flight in the evening, and end with return to the UK in the afternoon,so you may take your complimentary airport hotel on your return shouldyou wish. You may even ask us to arrange a day-time airport Pod-hotelafter an overnight flight – a great way to recover!

This year we have many well-established favourites, many enhanced withnew experiences, and also brand-new destinations featuring carefullyplanned itineraries which we can’t wait to run for you. We will be addingmore all the time, please keep an eye on our website and newsletters!

We add many important elements to our holidays to give you extra value,please check the detail! Here are some examples:

✔ In Yellowstone we add as standard a visit to the Great Salt Lake, where well over a million migrating waders and grebes can be expected. The birding aspect of your holiday will certainly be enhanced by this experience.

✔ In Costa Rica we take gentle boat trips through the brackish mangrove swamps at Tortuguero, where rarities such as Agami Heroncan be found at close quarters. We do the same at the Tarcoles River,where giant American Crocodiles are often lazing on the bank.

✔ In Nepal, we include a flight from Koshi Tappu back to Kathmandu, avoiding a long road journey. Later we include a flight to Mount Everest, and a brief cultural tour which we strongly recommend.

✔ In Morocco we sometimes visit a Saharan community for tea in the desert. This is a very unusual experience for western travellers, when the local community welcome us with a very valuable commodity – hot water!

✔ In India, convenience is again important, as we use internal flights to minimise travelling. We also visit some of the very best Tiger reserves, and our itineraries also allow for much rewarding birding.

With Heatherlea, the Field Guide is free!Our unique Pre-flight Service is developing allthe time, and we now include a FREE bird guidewith all ‘Rest of the World’ holidays (excludingMorocco, where the Collins European guide isa good choice). We will supply one field guidefor each room booked. With some titlescosting around £40, this is another benefitfrom Heatherlea which saves you money!

HEATHERLEA– your natural choice throughout the world!


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An eleven day delight, covering the birdlife of desert, mountain, coast and wetland, plus the spectacle ofspring migration. Morocco has specialities and near-endemics only found in the south of the WesternPalearctic and could have been designed for birding! Habitats include stony deserts, sand dunes, lakes, rivers,estuaries and the immense Atlas Mountains. In late March passerines are migrating to Europe and the beautifulMoroccan landscape explodes into bloom, helping birds such as Nightingale, warblers and buntings onnorthward migration, adding an extra dimension to the tour. Morocco still has a rural style of life lost in mostEuropean countries, which has helped birdlife for centuries. By fully exploring all these habitats we should find a mouth-watering list of species. Key birds includeTristram’s Warbler, Desert Sparrow, Bald Ibis, Houbara Bustard, Moussier’s Redstart, Fulvous Babbler, HoopoeLark, African Desert Warbler, Brown-necked Raven, Spotted, Little and Baillon’s Crakes, Black-crowned Tchagra,Marbled Duck, Glossy Ibis, Common Bulbul, Lesser Short-toed Lark, Cream-coloured Courser, Blue-cheekedBee-eater, Rufous Bush Robin, European Roller, Pin-tailed, Spotted, Crowned and Black-bellied Sandgrouse,Thick-billed, Bar-tailed, Desert, Thekla, and Temminck’s Horned Lark, Black, White-crowned Black, Red-rumpedand Desert Wheatear and Trumpeter Finch. Raptors should include Lanner, Long-legged Buzzard, BootedEagle, Montagu’s Harrier, Black-winged Kite, Golden and Bonelli’s Eagle and possibly Lammergeier. A birdlistwith a real flavour of North Africa! We visit many special places, including the High Atlas Mountains at Oukaimeden, where we search thesnowline for handsome Crimson-winged Finch. At the famous Tagdilt Track, careful searching could revealHoubara Bustard, Cream-coloured Courser, Black-bellied & Crowned Sandgrouse, Thick-billed, Bar-tailed,Desert and Temminck’s Horned Lark. Our secluded auberge at Merzouga is right on the edge of the Sahara,and we pass numerous wadis and palm-fringed oases, with Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, Lanner Falcon and EagleOwl before reaching the edge of the red sand dunes of the Erg Chebbi – the largest dune system in Morocco.A major prize should be found around the various cafes that are dotted about the landscape, elusive DesertSparrow. Other species here include Fulvous Babbler, Hoopoe Lark, African Desert Warbler and Brown-neckedRaven. There are sometimes seasonal lakes, which attract numerous wildfowl and waders – an amazing sightout here in the desert. You will travel from the snowline to Sahara on this holiday!We stay in comfortable en-suite accommodation throughout. An optional visit to Marrakech city may bepossible one evening.

MOROCCO A big birdlist with a real flavour of North Africa!SAT 21 MARCH – TUE 31 MARCHPRICE: £2345pp Single Supplement: £220 Deposit: £300pp Leader Dave Pullan. Max 12 clients. Departure from London Gatwick - other regional departures may be available. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

Uganda is one of the most attractive destinations in East Africa for the wildlife enthusiast. Straddling theEquator and sharing a long land border with Kenya, the country is friendly, with good quality accommodationand improved travel. Uganda's wealth of birds and mammals make a wildlife visit thoroughly absorbing.

This holiday is a carefully designed safari through many of the most wildlife-rich areas. We focus on birdingand mammals, with excellent opportunities for photography. Uganda boasts around 1080 birds, and on thiscarefully prepared itinerary we hope to see approx. 300 species, including impressive Shoebill, striking BateleurEagle and elusive African Finfoot. Among the wide diversity of birds are many avian specialities of centralAfrica, and a good number of endemic species. Large mammals of interest include Lion, Hippo, Elephant andNile Crocodile, and a key highlight of the holiday will be the opportunity to see both Mountain Gorilla andChimpanzee.

As might be expected, our journey takes us to many of the mostimportant wildlife locations in Uganda. Our first key destination is theMabamba Wetlands, where we quietly approach Shoebill and manyother wetland birds in canoes; Kibale National Park is wonderful forprimates including Chimpanzee; the famous Queen Elizabeth NationalPark and its Kazinga Channel should yield Hippo, Nile Crocodile anda wide diversity of birdlife; Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Parkoffers the opportunity to encounter Mountain Gorilla, and LakeMburo, our final National Park, holds Eland, Burchell's Zebra, CapeBuffalo and many more new birds. Our tour includes three enjoyableboat trips, giving us exceptional views of birds and animals withminimum effort, an important part of this holiday.

This non-intensive tour seeks to avoid trekking and strenuous hikes to see wildlife, though ‘tracking’ to seegorillas and chimps involves walking to whichever part of the forest is favoured by these animals at the timeof our visit. We have excellent chances of seeing both large primates, and it is possible to spend up to an hourwith Gorillas, depending on our luck with their location.

As an idea of the huge diversity of wildlife targeted on this holiday, mammals alone might include MountainGorilla, Chimpanzee, Lion, Leopard, Hippo, African Elephant, Burchell's Zebra, Rothschild's Giraffe, NileCrocodile, Red Colobus, Black and White Colobus, Red-tailed Monkey, Blue Monkey, Grey-cheeked Mangabey,Spotted Hyena, Eland, Impala, Uganda Kob, Defassa Waterbuck, Reedbuck, Topi, Oribi, Bushduiker, OliveBaboon, Giant Forest Hog, Warthog, Cape Buffalo and more.

UGANDA A wonderful birding safari, plus Mountain Gorillas and Chimpanzees.

SAT 25 JANUARY – SAT 8 FEBRUARY PRICE: £6795pp Single Supplement: £795 Deposit: £1200pp Leader Gerard Gorman joined by experienced local guide Johnnie Kamugisha. Max 12 clients. Departure from London Heathrow. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

We don’t include a Field Guide here, werecommend ‘Collins Bird Guide to Europe’.

FREE! ‘Birds of Eastern Africa’by Ber van Perlo is included in yourholiday price (one copy per roombooked).


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21t: 01479 821248 e: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk Instagram: @heatherleabirds

BIRDING the RIFT VALLEYAn exciting holiday focused on birding with big game too!

SUN 2 FEBRUARY – TUES 11 FEBRUARYPrice: £4295pp Single Supplement: £345 Deposit: £800ppLeader Pete Cosgrove. Max 12 clients.

An exciting birding holiday with well over 300 species. Key sites include LakeNakuru, Lake Naivaisha, Lake Baringo and the famous Nairobi National Park, witha secondary focus on spectacular big game. Masai Mara extension available.

Just a few of the birds: Ostrich, Secretary Bird, African Water Rail, Spotted Thick-knee, Black-winged Plover, African Finfoot, Pangani Longclaw, Jackson’s Widowbird,Kori and Hartlaub’s Bustard, Saddle-billed Stork, African Yellow White-eye,Ruppell’s Robin-chat, Northern Pied Babbler, Red-throated Tit, Speke’s Weaver,Yellow-throated Sandgrouse, Martial, African Crowned and Wahlberg’s Eagle,African Quail-finch, Zebra Waxbill, Harlequin Quail, Lappet-faced Vulture, Violetand White-headed Wood-hoopoe, Short-winged, Croaking and Desert Cisticola,Hartlaub’s Turaco, Cinnamon Bracken Warbler, Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater,Green-headed, Malachite and Olive Sunbird, Bar-tailed Trogon, White-browedCrombec, African Olive Pigeon, Mountain Buzzard and both Lesser and GreaterFlamingo. Big game includes Giraffe (Maasai and Rothschild's), Zebra, Warthog,Cape Buffalo, White Rhino and Black Rhino.

MASAI MARA SHORT BREAKA memorable visit to one of the world's premier wildlife destinations

WED 6 NOVEMBER – TUES 12 NOVEMBER 2019 WED 4 NOVEMBER – TUES 10 NOVEMBER 2020Price: £2995pp Single supplement: £195 Deposit: £800ppLeader Pete Cosgrove. Max 12 clients.

A memorable visit to one of the world's premier wildlife destinations, featuringunforgettable wildlife and excellent services at a very attractive price. Thiscarefully researched itinerary includes two nights in Nairobi, three nights in 'theMara', and an experienced Guide from the UK supported by top quality localguides. All of these elements combine to help make the most of our time whileallowing you to relax. Substantial, comfortable vehicles where everyone has awindow seat, excellent hotels and food throughout. This is the ideal short Kenyansafari for those with a general interest in African wildlife.

We begin at Nairobi National Park, then travel to the Masai Mara, a breathtakingsavannah punctuated by scattered shrubs and meandering river courses. We enjoythe panoramic spectacle of Africa's top nature reserve, as wandering Wildebeestroam the plains with Zebra, Cape Eland and gazelles. On their trail, residentpredators include African Lion, Cheetah and Leopard, and we often experiencebreathtaking and unforgettable experiences including kills and mating. At the riveritself, Nile Crocodile lie in wait for ruminants, and many Hippos laze in theshallows. Everywhere you turn, there will be amazing game to enjoy, includingAfrican Elephant, Common Warthog, Banded Mongoose, Thompson's Gazelle,Topi, Cape Buffalo and Maasai Giraffe.

KENYAKenya has a huge birdlist, and a magnificent heritage of big game. Habitats and wildlifechange quickly over short distances, and on all these tours you should see a great deal!We have four cracking trips, full of wildlife, each ideal for birders and those with ageneral interest in African wildlife. All tours are led by expert UK-based Guide PeteCosgrove, accompanied by excellent local Guides and drivers.

Departure from London Heathrow - other regional departures may be available.Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

ULTIMATE BIRDING TOURA Massive birdlist including many East African endemics

SUN 1 DECEMBER – TUE 17 DECEMBER 2019Price: £5995pp Single Supplement: £560 Deposit: £1000pp Leader Pete Cosgrove. Max 12 clients.

A massive and mouthwatering birdlist of 450+, as we visit many of the country'stop birding spots in search of sought-after Kenyan species. These includenational endemics Jackson's Francolin, Snowy Barbet, Aberdare Cisticola, Grant’sWood Hoopoe, Turner’s Eremomela, Kikuyu White-eye and Sharpe's Longclaw.East African endemics include Grey-crested Helmetshrike, Red-throated Tit,Northern Pied Babbler, Hildebrandt’s Starling, Abbott’s Starling, Kenrick’s Starling,Jackson’s Widowbird, Hartlaub’s Turaco, Hunter’s Cisticola, Black-lored Babblerand Kenya Rufous Sparrow. ‘Near endemics to Kenya’ include Golden-wingedSunbird, Parrot-billed Sparrow, Fire-fronted Bishop and Donaldson Smith’sSparrow-Weaver.

Kenya is also considered to be “Best Territory” in Africa for some other birds,Somali Ostrich, Black-faced Sandgrouse, White-headed Mousebird, Blue-headedBee-eater, Somali Bee-eater, Jackson’s Hornbill, Taita Fiscal, White-bellied Tit,Hunter’s Sunbird, Somali Sparrow, Golden Palm Weaver, Northern MaskedWeaver, Grey-headed Silverbill, Golden Pipit, Steel-blue Whydah, PanganiLongclaw, William's Lark, Moorland Francolin, Friedmann’s Lark, Chapin’sFlycatcher, Hinde’s Babbler, Abyssinian Wheatear, Kakamega Greenbul and OliveIbis. Add a vast range of other African birds, and you have the ideal tour for thebirder seeking a comprehensive birdlist. Big game are incidental but unavoidable,you will enjoy good views of a wide range of wildlife.

NEW! KENYA and TANZANIAWonderful East African birding and wildlife

SUN 7 JUNE – FRI 19 JUNEPrice: £5995pp Single Supplement: £495 Deposit: £1000pp Leader Pete Cosgrove. Max 12 clients.

A fantastic tour which starts at Nairobi NP, heading south to wonderful wildlifedestinations in Tanzania. We visit Amboseli NP, at the foothills of Mt.Kilimanjaro, and the majestic Ngorongoro Crater, one of the wonders of Africa.Descending to the crater floor takes you through great scenery, with excellentbirding and plentiful herds of wild animals as well as breathtaking views of thecrater walls. Look out for the local African Lions, Cheetah, Savannah Elephantand Black Rhino. We also explore Tarangire NP, the land of Elephants and Baobabtrees, where many birds await us. Contact our office to be placed on theadvance notification list for this unforgettable African Odyssey!

FREE! ‘Birds of Eastern Africa’ by Ber van Perlo isincluded in your holiday price (one copy per room booked).



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Gambia is a superb option for British birders, offering the nearest rainforestjungle to the UK, easy access from London and comfortable hotels close tothe airport. This holiday is a straightforward introduction to African birding,centered around a wide variety of habitats mostly at the bird-rich coastalstrip, and largely dry and sunny when we visit. This allows us to be flexible ifone of our pre-planned sites is poor for birds, and rapidly switch to anotherlocation. For those who like their birding leisurely and easy, this is the placeto be with dozens of species every day.Most of the holiday is based at the coast, though one day we head inland toMarakissa Rivercamp, an exciting birding destination which has a greatdiversity of habitats and species. Lunch can be accompanied by up to fivespecies of kingfisher! We enjoy a two- hour canoe trip through the mangroveswamp, and there should be great photographic opportunities. Likely sightingsinclude Orange-cheeked Waxbill, Oxpecker, African Paradise Flycatcher, GreenCrombec, Red-shouldered Cuckoo-shrike, Cardinal Woodpecker, Yellowbilland many more. Other key sites include Kotu Creek and Fajara Golf Course, Abuko Nature Reserve, the Faraba-Banta ‘Raptor Track’, the village of Brufut, Tanji Village, and Turjering. Birding promises to be exceptional, and we will almost immediately see Red-billed and Grey Hornbill, SenegalCoucal, Long-tailed Sunbird, Hooded Vulture and many more. Hotel grounds offer excellent birding nearby, andour first morning’s stroll should produce fine views of some spectacular species. As usual, we shall keep an eyeon the general wildlife of the area including butterflies and reptiles including Nile Monitor Lizard, and monkeyssuch as Green Vervet and Red Colobus.Other birding highlights include Snow-crowned Robin-chat, Palm-nut Vulture, African Darter, Hammerkop, GiantKingfisher, African Pygmy Kingfisher, Red-bellied Flycatcher, Western Bluebill, Oriole Warbler, Yellow-throatedLeaflove, Fanti Saw-wing, White-headed Helmet Shrike, White-faced Scops Owl, Pearl-spotted Owlet, SenegalParrot, sunbirds, Yellow-crowned Gonolek, Black-crowned Tchagra, Long-tailed Nightjar, and Bearded Barbet.Painted Snipe, Abyssinian Roller, Blue-bellied Roller, Green Wood-hoopoe, Green Turaco and Violet Turaco arecolourful and exotic, and we also hope to see Black Egret using its famous umbrella fishing technique. Raptorsmight include Martial Eagle, Booted Eagle, Long-crested Hawk Eagle, African Harrier Hawk, Shikra, Lizard Buzzard,Hooded Vulture, Black-shouldered Kite, Dark-chanting Goshawk, Lanner Falcon, Grey Kestrel and White-crownedHelmet Shrike. A relaxing and very rewarding birding holiday!

GAMBIA African rainforest birding and migrationFRI 10 JANUARY – FRI 17 JANUARY PRICE: £2395pp Single Supplement: £250 Deposit: £300pp Leader Ian Ford, joined by Scott O’Hara with more than 9 clients, plus experienced local guides. Max 12 clients. Departure from London Gatwick - other regional departures may beavailable. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

Ghana is a must visit destination for any birding and nature enthusiast, with over 760 bird species. From coastallagoons, grassland savannah and upper guinea rainforest, moving northwards through broad-leaved guineawoodland and finally touching the Sahel savannah plains in the far north, Ghana offers all the core west Africanhabitats. Birding is exceptional, with 12 of the 15 Upper Guinea Endemic bird species recorded, and highlightsinclude Yellow-headed Picathartes (also commonly called White-necked Rockfowl) and Egyptian Plover. Ouritinerary is focused on birding at relaxed pace, though we will enjoy a big birdlist including key speciality species.

We begin birding in the open grassland savannah of the Shai Hills Reserve and at Sakamona Lagoon, getting ourtour off to a great start with a range of African families including rollers, sunbirds and hornbills, plus manywetland birds. Next, we spend three days birding the famous Kakum National Park where the canopy walkwaygives ideal viewing of the tropical rainforest. Sample birds include; Violet-backed Hyliota, Chestnut-cappedFlycatcher, Sharpes Apalis, African Pied, Brown-cheeked and White-crested Hornbill, Copper-tailed andChestnut-winged Glossy-Starling, West African (Bioko) Batis, Blue Cuckoo-shrike, LittleGreen Woodpecker …. birding is wonderful here!

After birding at Antwikwaa for Bee-eaters, eagles and African Finfoot we head toAnkasa, Ghana’s pristine evergreen rainforest to look for endemics and difficultNkulengu Rail. Another highlight will be our visit to a viewing area for prehistoriclooking Yellow-headed Picathartes, one of the most sought after birds in our itinerary.Egyptian Plover can be found along the White Volta River, and birding at Mole NP willproduce many new species perhaps including Forbes Plover, Pel’s Fishing and NorthernWhite-faced Scops Owl, Spotted Creeper and Rufous-rumped Lark, with a largesupporting cast of dozens.

The emphasis is on birding, though some mammals should be seenincluding African Elephant, Crocodile and many antelope and monkeyspecies.

NEW! GHANA Excellent birding in a part of West Africa which boasts a big birdlist!

FRI 7 FEBRUARY – THURS 20 FEBRUARY PRICE: £3795pp Single supplement: £310 Deposit: £800pp Leader Gerard Gorman joined by experienced local guides. Max 12 clients. Departure from London Heathrow. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

FREE! ‘Birds of Senegal and TheGambia’ by Nik Borrow and Ron Demey,Helm, is included in your holiday price(one copy per room booked).

FREE! ‘Birds of Ghana’ by Nik Borrow and Ron Demey(one copy per room booked).



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COSTA RICA

Highlights include our visit to the Savegre River Cloudforest, where we hope tofind startling Resplendent Quetzal, one of the world’s most striking birds. Wealso visit world famous La Selva Biological Station, where the number and sheerdiversity of birds can be overwhelming. On the Pacific coast we enjoy a leisurelybirding boat trip in Carara National Park, and also look for macaws, manakins andmore in the tropical forest. At Ensenada we explore tropical forests in a hot, dryenvironment, with endlessly rolling plains reminiscent of central Africa, acomplete contrast to all other places we visit. Spectacular Arenal Volcano isunforgettable, and we stay very close to the volcano itself in the splendidObservatory Lodge, watching tanagers, woodpeckers, jays and oropendolas onbalcony feeders with the caldera directly behind. At wonderful Tortuguero,where the Caribbean Sea is just 200 metres from extensive freshwater lagoons,we leisurely explore the mangrove swamp in boats, and Agami Heron, Sloths,Monkeys and Neotropical River Otter are just some of the delights we hope toencounter. We stay in comfortable en-suite hotels and lodges throughout, allwith great birding immediately to hand. Our local agents here are amongst thebest we've found anywhere in the world, and their meticulous organisation andexcellent guides ensure a really first-class holiday.

WITH HEATHERLEA IN COSTA RICA ... THE VALUE ISEXCEPTIONAL!

✔ Choose from three very different holidays, all led by top expert Paco Madrigal.

✔ Includes a Guide from the UK with more than 7 clients, guaranteeing a high level of personal attention. Max 12 clients.

✔ All holidays include Tortuguero, the most expensive destination, though unforgettable!

✔ Excellent rooms in very good hotels. All meals included, as are all tours and entrances, and fruits and water on the bus.

✔ Flights direct from London Gatwick, regional departures may be available.

✔ Pre-flight airport hotel, VIP Lounge, field guide and tips wallet included.

CLASSIC TOURSAT 11 JANUARY – SUN 26 JANUARYPrice: £5195pp Single Supplement: £525 Deposit: £800ppLeader Paco Madrigal with Mike Coleman. Max 12 clients.

Ideal choice for the first time visitor to Costa Rica or for your first long-distancebirding holiday. Birding is generally very easy, and the pace is relaxed and laid-back. This is not an intensive birding holiday, rather a hugely enjoyable andrewarding experience. Other wildlife includes monkeys, sloths, lizards, crocodiles,Agouti, Coatimundi, bats, amphibians, turtles, snakes, a vast range of butterfliesand a wealth of flora!

COSTA RICA CLASSIC TOUR - PLUS!TUE 3 NOVEMBER – SAT 21 NOVEMBER 2020Price: £5495pp Single Supplement: £585 Deposit: £1000ppLeader Paco Madrigal with Mark Warren. Max 12 clients.

Our ‘Classic Tour’ with three extra nights, so we can include more experiences aswe stay longer in some very special places. With more time, we add desirableextras, including baby Green Turtles hatching on the beach, additionalHummingbird sites and the chance of some rare birds otherwise not available, afascinating forest night walk (optional) for all kinds of wonderful wildlife, a visitto a chocolate plantation (also optional), where you will watch and participate inthe organic process, and above all an enhanced birdlist.

COSTA RICA: BIRDING TOURSAT 4 APRIL – SUN 19 APRILPrice: £5195pp Single Supplement: £525 Deposit: £1000ppLeader Paco Madrigal with Pete Cosgrove. Max 12 clients.

This ‘Birders’ Tour’ features more birding, as we use the available time to maximiseour lists. We will spend a lot of time in the field, with much shorter afternoonbreaks, featuring more early morning starts and evening outings.We hope for well over 400 species!

FREE! ‘Birds of Costa Rica’ by Richard Garrigues andRobert Dean, is included in your holiday price (one copyper room booked).

This is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with pristine beaches, wonderful tropical wetlands, lowland rainforest, highcloudforest festooned with orchids and bromeliads, and cool, misty mountain tops. There are more birdspecies to the square mile here than any other country on earth, and the experience is simply stunning.There are so many birds we can only list a few here: Resplendent Quetzal, Orange-collared Manakin, Long-tailed Manakin, Flame-coloured and Crimson-collared Tanager, Collared Trogon, Torrent Tyrannulet, VolcanoHummingbird, Gray-tailed Mountain Gem, Scarlet Macaw, Tiger Heron, parrots, orioles, macaws, RoseateSpoonbill, Anhinga, six kingfishers, Crested Caracara, Mangrove Black Hawk, endangered Great Green Macaw, Sunbittern, Black-facedGrosbeak, Snail Kite, Wood Stork, Boat-billed Heron, Limpkin, Turquoise-browed Motmot, White Hawk, Brown-hooded Parrot, LanceolatedMonklet, Golden-olive Woodpecker, many hummingbirds, three toucans, three tinamous, Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl, Black and White,Spectacled, and Pacific Screech Owl, Great Potoo, Nighthawks, and mammals, insects and interesting flora abound.



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A superb environment for wildlife, home to around 570 bird species plus manyinteresting mammals and innumerable butterflies. Belize provides a fascinatingopportunity for UK birders and wildlife enthusiasts and has potential tobecome one of the most important destinations in the Caribbean.The country has a diverse mix of primary and secondary forest, and much of thelandscape is covered by lush forest, interspersed with cultivated areas and smallvillages. There are several National Parks and other protected areas (coveringaround 40% of the land area), plus several prime Mayan archaeological sites,some of which we visit. NB Those not interested in the cultural aspects won'tbe wasting time, there is good birding everywhere! We also spend time birding the region around Puerto Morelos, on the Yucatan peninsula,part of Mexico. This allows us to seek some special birds not found in Belize. There are many Yucatan and Belizean endemics on this tour, such as Yucatan Woodpecker,White-browed Wren, Black Catbird, Rose-throated Tanager, Blue Bunting, Orange Oriole,Yucatan Parrot, Yucatan Vireo, Yucatan Jay and Yucatan Flycatcher, with chances of YucatanBobwhite, Yucatan Poorwill and Yucatan Nightjar. Regional endemics include Ruddy Crake,Wedge-tailed Sabrewing, Yellow-winged Tanager, Stub-tailed Spadebill and Couch's Kingbird.Whilst there is some inevitable overlap with other countries in Central and Southern America,Belize remains one of the best countries to catch up with hard-to-see species such as Orange-breasted Falcon, Azure-crowned Hummingbird, Rufous-capped Warbler, Great Tinamou,Solitary Eagle, Crested Eagle and the oddly-adorned Ocellated Turkey.

BELIZE AND THE YUCATAN PENINSULAOutstanding Central American birding plus stunning Mayan archaeological sites.

SUN 15 NOVEMBER – SAT 28 NOVEMBER PRICE: £4795pp Single Supplement: £345 Deposit: £800pp Leaders: Gabor & Andrea Orban, joined by another from our experienced Heatherlea team with more than 10 clients. Max 12 clients. Departure from London Gatwick. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

This tour offers some of the finest neotropical birding for hard-to-find and localised species in Central America, and we expectover 300 species. Only 2% of Guatemala is urbanised, and wetravel through beautiful landscapes ranging from denselywooded 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, some targets being HornedGuan, Highland Guan, Pink-headed Warbler, Mountain Trogon,Blue-throated, Russet-crowned and Turquoise-browed Motmot,Azure-rumped Tanager, Bearded Screech-Owl, Black-cappedSiskin, Green-throated Mountain-gem, Emerald-chinned, Blue-tailed, Cinnamon, Wine-throated, Garnet-throated andAmethyst-throated Hummingbird, Rufous-browed Wren, Blue-and-white Mockingbird, White-bellied Chachalaca, Buffy-crowned Wood-Partridge, SingingQuail, Crested Bobwhite, Lesser Roadrunner, Lesser Ground-Cuckoo, Bushy-crested,Unicolored, Black-throated and Azure-hooded Jay, Spot-breasted, Black-vented and Bar-winged Oriole, Rufous Sabrewing, Plain-capped Starthroat, Slender Sheartail, PacificParakeet, Black-headed Siskin, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Chestnut-sided Shrike-Vireo, Beltedand Nutting’s Flycatcher, Gray Silky-flycatcher, Slate-colored Solitaire, White-loredGnatcatcher, Tawny-throated Leaftosser, Scaly-throated Foliage-gleaner, Cinnamon-belliedFlowerpiercer, Common Chlorospingus, Blue-crowned Chlorophonia, Spotted and Black-headed Nightingale-Thrush, Varied Bunting, Lesser Nighthawk, Buff-collared Nightjar,Guatemalan Screech-Owl, Stripe-headed Sparrow, and White-eared Ground-Sparrow.

Of birds in the highlands about 10% are endemic, and the range of some species is restrictedto western Guatemala and the south Mexican state of Chiapas. The highlands are also hometo Resplendent Quetzal, considered so special it adorns the national flag, and the nationalcurrency is named after it! The lowlands contain the country’s highest diversity, with nearly500 species recorded.

As well as exceptional birding, we experience much of the history andculture of the country. Antigua, the ancient former capital, is a WorldHeritage Site located next to former coffee plantations reborn as privatenature reserves, where we watch Rufous and Violet Sabrewings, White-eared, Magnificent, and Beryline Hummingbird.

NEW! GUATEMALA Central America’s most diverse birding nation

SUN 10 JAN – SAT 23 JAN 2021PRICE: £4695pp Single Supplement: £345 Deposit: £1000pp Leader Mike Coleman with local guide Knut Eisermann. Max 12 clients. Departure from London Heathrow. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

FREE! 'Birds of Mexico and Central America'by Ber van Perlo is included in your holiday price.

FREE! 'Birds of Central America' by Andrew Vallely and Dale Dyeris included in your holiday price (one copy per room booked).

TIKAL extensionFRI 22 JAN – FRI 29 JAN 2021Price: £1395pp Single Supplement: £125Extend your holiday as we explore the wildlife and culture of anotherWorld Heritage Site, a vast area of ancient pyramids and structuresreaching from deep forest into the sky amidst a soundscape of birdsong.Additional targets include: Great Curassow, Ocellated Turkey, White-fronted and Mealy Parrot, Crested Eagle, Orange-breasted Falcon, Slaty-tailed Trogon, Keel-billed Toucan, Chestnut-coloured Woodpecker,Fork-tailed, Vermilion, Sulphur-bellied and Yucatan Flycatcher, White-bellied Wren, Montezuma Oropendola, Scaly-breasted and Rufous-tailedHummingbird, Stripe-throated and Long-billed Hermit, White-neckedJacobin, Red-capped and White-collared Manakin, Dusky Antbird, Black-faced Grosbeak, Black Catbird, Gray-breasted Chat, Green-backedSparrow, Rose-throated, Scarlet-rumped and Crimson-collared Tanager,Black-throated Shrike-Tanager, Mottled and Black-and-white Owl,Guatemalan Screech-Owl, Common Pauraque and Yucatan Poorwill.

The tour is generally relaxed and easy-paced, although expect some earlyor packed breakfasts to make the most of the morning bird activity Weenjoy friendly hospitality in comfortable, well-located lodges, and eatlocally sourced produce, often bought from lively, colourful villagemarkets where Mayan culture survives to this day.



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Colombia has nearly 2000 bird species, more than any other country in the world, and its diversegeography and landscape make this a wonderful destination. On this tour we cover the eastern,central and western slopes of the Andes, plus birding at the hotspot of Magdalena Valley, the SantaMarta mountains and the superb Guajira Desert to give a good selection of both habitats and birdlife.We anticipate perhaps over 500 species, more than on any other Heatherlea tour, including chancesfor over 35 Colombian endemics. The tour features colourful mixed flocks of tanagers, woodpeckers, toucans, fruiteaters, plus antpittasand hummingbirds as we visit many different habitats including beautiful reserves and breathtakinglandscapes in various regions of the country, from high-altitude locations for Buffy Helmetcrest tothe coast for many shorebirds.Your Guides Andres and Dave are veterans of many Heatherlea tours in Ecuador and Galapagos, andColombian national Andres is particularly looking forward to leading our tour here in his homecountry. This is a busy trip by Heatherlea standards with a number of centres, though this is important tocover the many specialities on this relatively high-activity tour; our itinerary will be most suited tothose with a strong birding perspective. Highlights are many; rare Yellow-eared Parrot is a key targetand we could even see wonderful Andean Cock of the Rock on the same day! We find time toappreciate a myriad of hummers, bizarre Oilbird, colourful mixed flocks of tanagers, woodpeckers,toucans and fruiteaters and migrant North American passerines. The volume of available species canbe overwhelming, though being a Heatherlea tour we also take time to enjoy some cultural aspects,including a bird-friendly Colombian coffee tour. Accommodation has been carefully selected forquality and prime position for wildlife activities. Colombia is a large country though the inclusion ofinternal flights is an important feature to maximise both comfort and birding.

NEW! COLOMBIA An exceptional birding tour from Colombia’s central and westernAndes & Cauca Valley to the endemic- rich Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta

SAT 24 OCTOBER – SUN 8 NOVEMBER 2020PRICE: £6795pp Single Supplement: £795 Deposit: £1000pp Leader Andreas Trujillo joined by Dave Pullan with 9 or more clients. Max 12 clients. Departure from London Heathrow. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

FREE! ‘Field Guide to the Birds ofColombia’ by Miles McMullan is included inyour holiday price (one per room booked).

We take you from snow-covered mountain peaks and highpáramo moorlands down through Andean valleys and manygradations of temperate and subtropical forest, as we visitthe key habitats and iconic locations of this world-famousbioregion. Important locations include Milpe Bird Sanctuary,Antisana Ecological Reserve, San Isidro and Wildsumaco.Ideal for those who wish to experience the incredible aviandiversity of Ecuador, we see many hummingbirds (well over40 species), unforgettable Andean Condor, spectacular andcolourful Cock-of-the-Rock, strange-looking Oilbird andincredible Long-wattled Umbrellabird and maximize our listwhile staying in very comfortable hotels and lodges, andbirders and photographers alike will appreciate hummingbirdfeeders from just feet away.

Next, we transfer to the fabulous Galapagos Islands, wherenothing compares to the sense of wonder and privilege feltwith animals which don't run or fly away when humansapproach, truly unique treasures of our earth. We explore ata relaxed pace among spectacular scenery to see endemic birds and reptiles in the wild. The holiday is landbased, using local boat services to visit other islands, amid the company of passing petrels, shearwaters,boobies, gulls, dolphins, turtles, seals and sharks.

Isabela is the largest island, and we visit a pristine ecosystem of tidal lagoons to see Darwin’s finches, MangroveWarbler and others. Flightless Cormorants and Brown Pelicans nest along the coast. There are lava fields downto the sea’s edge where we hope to find Galápagos Penguin, Blue-footed Booby, Magnificent Frigatebird,Audubon Shearwater, Galápagos Hawk, Galapagos Rail, Woodpecker Finch, Green Warbler Finch, Small TreeFinch and Galapagos Flycatcher and Paint-billed Crake. We also see Giant Tortoise in the wild and visit theCharles Darwin Breeding Centre. On Española noisy Sea Lions and curious Hood Mockingbirds greet us as weland, and we see boobies, Swallow-tailed Gull and endemic Marine Iguanas. Steep cliffs rise out of the sea,and we watch the famous blowhole. The Waved Albatross colony will be active, Galápagos Dove, LargeCactus-Finch, Sally Lightfoot Crab and Galápagos Hawk should be seen, and Red-billed Tropicbirds will beoverhead. On Floreana we search for Medium Tree Finch and visit the famous Post Office Bay.

You'll enjoy thrilling encounters with animals, up-close and in large numbers, completely at ease among humanvisitors, here in one of the last truly wild places on Earth.

ECUADOR AND GALAPAGOS Relaxed birding and wildlife watching

MON 14 SEPTEMBER – TUE 6 OCTOBER 2020PRICE: £8595pp Single supplement: £875 Deposit: £1600pp Leader Andres Trujillo joined by Dave Pullan with nine or more clients. Max 12 clients. Departure from London Heathrow. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

FREE! 'The Birds of Ecuador' byRobert Ridley & Paul J Greenfield isincluded in your holiday price (onecopy per room booked).



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Brazil's Pantanal contains one of the world's largest tropical wetland areas. We visit in July, when travel is relativelyeasy, and wildlife generally is at its most accessible.

Birding is our main focus and a list of around 350 species can be reasonably expected. Helmeted Manakin, Dot-earedCoquette, Cinnamon-throated Hermit, Blue-winged, Red-shouldered Macaw, Red-and-Green Macaw, Blue-wingedMacaw, Blue-headed Parrot, Swallow Tanager, Yellow-billed Blue-Finch, Bat Falcon, Euler’s Flycatcher, White-backedFire-eye, Yellow-tufted Woodpecker, Ornate Hawk-Eagle, Russet-crowned Crake, Chapada Flycatcher, CollaredCrescentchest, Rufous-sided Pygmy Tyrant, Rufous-winged Antshrike, Shrike-like Tanager, Small-billed Tinamou, Sooty-fronted Spinetail, Coal-crested and Red Pileated Finches, Black-throated Saltator and Hyacinth Macaw, the world’slargest parrot, are just some of the birds.We also target key mammals, including Giant River Otter, Giant Anteater, Brazilian Tapir, and especially Jaguar, whichyou have every chance to see on this holiday. We will spend two full days exploring the Porto Jofre – SouthernTranspantaneira area, where sightings of this striking cat have become fairly regular in the last few years. We make threehalf-day boat trips along the Cuiabá River, and reach isolated areas where Jaguars are frequent. Most sightings aremade from the boat, which can provide us with good photo opportunities. The boat tours also offer excellent chancesfor other mammals and of course for a diverse arrange of colourful birds. We will also have more chances for GiantOtter, and Capybara will be a constant sighting on the riverbanks. We may see up to 30 mammal species in total.We stay at various lodges and hotels along the length of the famous 'Transpantaneira', the only road across the northernPantanal. The tour includes two full days on the river systems searching for Jaguar plus two morning boat trips at otherlocations searching for other wildlife and birds. Much wildlife in the Pantanal is easily viewed from the Transpantaneiraitself, often using the famous wooden bridges as viewing platforms, allowing for some great photographicopportunities.

BRAZIL - THE PANTANAL Superb birding and mammals in the heart of Brazil

SAT 11 JULY – THURS 23 JULYPRICE: £5495pp Single Supplement: £375 Deposit: £1500pp

Leader Pete Cosgrove and local guide(s). Max 12 clients. Departure from London. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included

FREE! ‘Birds of Brazil’ byBer van Perlo is included inyour holiday price (onecopy per room booked).

Enjoy a fascinating selection of birdlife in the famous and very importantNorthern Birding Corridor, with a long list including iconic and breathtakingspecies. This trip is exceptionally good for hummingbirds, includingKoepcke’s Hermit, Black-throated Hermit, Fork-tailed Woodnymph, White-chinned Sapphire, Rufous-crested Coquette, Reddish Hermit, Blue-frontedand Green-fronted Lancebills, Violet-fronted Brilliant, Long-tailed Sylph, Speckled Hummingbird, White-bellied Woodstar, Sword-billedHummingbird, Collared Inca, Andean Emerald, White-bellied Hummingbird,Purple-throated Woodstar, Purple-throated Sunangel, White-belliedWoodstar, Royal Sunangel, Tawny-bellied Hermit and not forgettingMarvellous Spatuletail, the world’s most spectacular hummer. You can alsoexpect tanagers, toucans, raptors, finches and fruiteaters, with chances ofunforgettable Andean Condor and Cock-of-the-Rock, as we visit unspoiltforests where many brightly-colouredbirds can be expected in the canopy. Wealso include an easy-going day to seeHumboldt's Penguin and Inca Tern.

NORTHERN BIRDINGSAT 2 OCTOBER – THURS 14 OCTOBER 2021PRICE: £4795pp Single supplement: £545 Deposit: £1000ppLeader Gerard Gorman joined by expert local Guide Wilson Diaz. Max 12 clients. Departure from London Gatwick. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included

Wonderful Peruvian birding from the Pacific coast near Lima to the unique ManuBiosphere, together with an exploration of Cusco, Aguas Calientas and the ancientcity of Machu Picchu, at the very heart of the Inca Empire. We recently extendedthis tour by five extra nights, allowing us to take more time to build anunforgettable experience in this wonderful country.

We spend most of our time in the south, and visit humid, unspoilt temperateforests where flocks of brightly-coloured birds can be expected among the forestcanopy of bromeliads and mosses. Hummingbirds, tanagers, toucans, raptors,finches and fruiteaters, the birdlife is astounding, and we plan to see a largeselection in one of the world's most bird-rich regions. It would be very difficult tocover all the birdlife of southern Peru during one holiday, and we concentrate onthe area around Cuzco to combine our birding experience with the culturaltreasures of Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the city of Cuzcoitself. In this south-eastern part of the country, the Inca influence is particularlystrong, and tradition still rules the daily lives of people, who are very proud of theirheritage. Excursions are at a slow pace, and you will have plenty of time insideMachu Picchu for photographs, and to enjoy local birds including Inca Wren, andCuzco Brush-Finch. Our hotels have been chosen carefully for both birding andeasy access to the city of Cuzco.

The second part of the trip takes us to the cloud forests of the fabulous ManuNational Park in the Andean foothills. We visit an area where altitudes range

between 1500 and 3000 metres, offering a high diversity of mountainbirds. The main attraction here is the Cock-of-the-Rock lek locatedjust outside the lodge.

We also include an easy-going day on arrival to see Humboldt's Penguinand Inca Tern, and the entire trip should be of great interest to all whowant a bird-filled holiday with important cultural heritage viewing, anda real flavour of Peru, all conducted at a non-intensive pace.

SOUTHERN BIRDING and MACHUPICCHU

SAT 17 OCTOBER – SUN 1 NOVEMBER 2020 PRICE: £5295pp Single supplement: £545 Deposit: £1000pp Leader Ian Ford joined by expert local Guide Wilson Diaz with 9 ormore clients. Max 12 clients. Departure from London Gatwick. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

PERUPeru is one of the most important birding destinations in the world, containing so many different habitats, in wild and hard to reach places,that even now, new species are being discovered every year. Many areas are completely unexplored by birders, and only recently have somefascinating places with rich bio-diversity and a large concentration of species become available to western enthusiasts. With Heatherlea youhave two options full of fabulous birding. Visit the south on a memorable itinerary including the Manu biosphere and Machu Picchu.Alternatively, visit the north and add a southern extension should you wish.

FREE! ‘Birds of Peru’ bySchulenberg et.al, is includedin your holiday price (onecopy per room booked).



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A tremendous tour of both National Parks, as we visit spectacular locations to see a fantastic range of birdsand mammals. Summer is a time of abundance in Yellowstone, and we should see Grey Wolf, Black and GrizzlyBear, American Bison at the rut, Coyote, Pronghorn, Bighorn Sheep, Elk, Moose, Mule Deer, White-tailed Deer,River Otter, American Beaver, American Badger, Red Fox – no wonder Yellowstone has been compared to anAfrican safari! Summer is a good time for mammals, wolves with young should be found, and both bear speciesare active.

Birds are spectacular too, including Trumpeter Swan, White-facedIbis, Ruffed and Blue Grouse, American Three-toed Woodpecker,Western Tanager, Black-headed Grosbeak, Bald Eagle, GoldenEagle, Steller’s Jay, Sandhill Crane, Red-naped Sapsucker, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Cordilleran Flycatcher, Mountain Bluebird,Clark’s Nutcracker, Barrow’s Goldeneye, American Dipper, LazuliBunting and Osprey. In a small mountain town, we expect Rufousand Broad-tailed Hummingbird at feeders.

Geological delights include the world heritage geyser basins, andwe hope to witness at least two Old Faithful eruptions. Othergeysers are impressive too, as are hot springs, which are everycolour of the rainbow! The dramatic Upper and Lower Falls ofYellowstone River are well worth visiting, and we take an excitingbirding/beaver raft trip on the Snake River. We also visit the10,000-foot mountain pass that crosses the great BeartoothPlateau to see some of North America’s finest landscapes, anunforgettable scenic experience.

Additionally, our journey begins at Great Salt Lake, where wetlandsof worldwide importance hold many tens of thousands EaredGrebe, Wilson’s Phalarope, American Avocet and other shorebirds.This can be a memorable birding experience!

YELLOWSTONE & THE GRAND TETONS Birds and mammals in Yellowstone

SAT 25 JULY – FRI 7 AUGUST PRICE: £5695pp Single Supplement: £895 Deposit: £1500pp Leader Ian Ford, joined by expert local guides. Max. 12 clients.Departures from London Heathrow. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

FREE! ‘Birds of Western NorthAmerica’ by David Allen Sibley isincluded in your holiday price (onecopy per room booked).

This is a two week trip to one of America’s most stunning destinations, featuring amazing cactidesert and ‘sky-island’ mountain landscapes. We begin our trip at the indescribably beautifulGrand Canyon, then travel south to savour the legendary birding of Southeast Arizona. Thereis a diversity of fabulous birds to match the scenery, from desert and Mexican specialities, tomany gorgeous and gaudy breeding plumaged American wood warblers heading northwardsinto the mountains, this is a trip that every birder should do at least once. Migration will be infull swing and the excitement is unparalleled as wave upon wave of new birds arrive around us.

Birds may include Californian Condor, Roadrunner, Chiricahua Raven, Gambel’s, Scaled andMontezuma’s Quail, Say’s Phoebe, Loggerhead Shrike, American Avocet, Bairds, Spotted, Least,Stilt and Semi-palmated Sandpiper, Willet, Long-billed Dowitcher, Cinnamon Teal, White-facedIbis, Wilson’s Phalarope, Chestnut-collard Longspur, Dusky, Vermilion, Pacific-slope, Cordilleranand Hammond’s Flycatcher, Crissal Thrasher, Inca Dove, Cassin’s Kingbird, Elegant Trogon,Steller’s and Mexican Jay, Hermit Thrush, Acorn, Gila and Arizona Woodpecker, Pygmy, White-breasted and Red-breasted Nuthatch, Painted Redstart, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Black-headedGrosbeak, Hooded and Scott’s Oriole, Poorwill, Elf, Spotted, Whiskered Screech and WesternScreech Owl, Pyrrhuloxia, Summer and Hepatic Tanager, Belted and Green Kingfisher, White-tailed Kite, Bushtit, Juniper and Bridled Titmouse, Mexican Chickadee, Brown Creeper, Lincoln’s,Brewer’s, Savannah and Black-throated Sparrow, and Lazuli and Indigo Bunting.

Migrants include delightful Black-chinned, Broad-tailed, Anna’s, Magnificent, Calliope, Luciferand Rufous Hummingbird, and warblers include Black-throated Gray, Yellow, Wilson’s, Grace’s,Orange-crowned, Olive, Townsend’s Hermit’s and McGillavray’s, plus more difficult to see Red-faced, Virginia’s and Nashville Warbler.

We visit and stay in some of the most beautiful places in North America, where the hospitalityis wonderful and the vistas occasionally familiar to those who watch Westerns! This is thehome of several Native American tribes and was the scene of Apache Chief Geronimo's 'laststand'. As 'The Sunshine State' shares a 350-mile border with Mexico, the landscapes, food andpeople have a Mexican feel.

NEW! ARIZONA AND THE GRAND CANYONFantastic spring birding across the ‘Grand Canyon state’!

TUES 28 APRIL – TUES 12 MAY PRICE: £5295pp Single Supplement: £695 Deposit: £1200pp Leader Pete Cosgrove joined by expert local guide Pat Leuders. Max. 12 clients.Departures from London Heathrow. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

FREE! ‘Birds of Western North America’ byDavid Allen Sibley is included in your holidayprice (one copy per room booked).



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Vietnam is attracting more and more attention as a birding destination, and itsunique and exotic avifauna make it an enticing destination. The country boastsmany endemics and near-endemics, and on this tour we concentrate on key birdingsites in the southern and central parts of the country to see around 350 specieswith 9 possible endemics and 25+ near endemics and endemic subspecies. In thesouth there are important areas of lowland evergreen and semi-evergreen forest atCat Tien National Park, and we enjoy three days here to see pheasants, pittas,woodpeckers, broadbills, babblers and much more. In central Vietnam there are more opportunities forendemic and near-endemic species, including recently discovered Chestnut-eared Laughing-thrush. Otheruncommon birds include Rufous-faced Warbler, Pale Blue Flycatcher, Grey-headed Parrotbill and Black-crowned Barwing, only discovered in 1996.Interesting species in the Mang Den area include Pale-capped Pigeon, Austen’s Brown Hornbill, Stripe-breastedWoodpecker, Rusty-naped Pitta, Ratchet-tailed Treepie, White-winged Magpie, Rufous-faced Warbler, Black-hooded Laughing-thrush, Grey-crowned Tit and Pale Blue-flycatcher.Montane evergreen forests on the Dalat Plateau are home to several endemics and many distinctive localsubspecies, and we enjoy three full days here. The long list includes Lowe’s Green-pigeon, Red-vented,Necklaced and Annam Barbet, Dalat Shrike-babbler, Annam Minivet, Yellow-crowned Green Magpie, LangbianTit, Annam Grasshopper-warbler, Brown-backed Bulbul, Indochinese and Black-crowned Fulvetta, Black-headed Parrotbill, Annam Streaked and Indochinese Wren-babbler, Vietnamese Cutia, Orange-breasted, White-cheeked and Collared Laughing-thrush, White-spectacled Sibia, Plain Minla, Grey-crowned Crocia,Yellow-billed Nuthatch, Langbian Lesser Shortwing, Langbian and Annam Sunbird and Vietnamese Greenfinch.Key birds on the tour also include Limestone Leaf-warbler, Sooty Babbler, Tonkin Partridge, White-belliedGreen-pigeon, Brown Fish-owl, Austen’s Brown Hornbill, Red-collared Woodpecker, Blue-rumped and Bar-bellied Pitta, Indochinese Wren-babbler and Yellow-billed Nuthatch.We begin with a little orientation and sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon), thoughexceptional birding is of course the key focus of the tour!

NEW! VIETNAM A comprehensive first-time tour covering endemics, near-endemicsand other speciality birds of southern and central regions

MON 23 NOVEMBER – SAT 12 DECEMBER 2020PRICE: £4495pp Single Supplement: £450 Deposit: £800pp Leader Gerard Gorman, joined by expert local guide Nguyen Thanh Nhan. Max. 12 clients.Departures from London Heathrow. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

A significant improvement on the traditional combination of Trinidad and Tobago, this top-value itineraryalso includes St Lucia, where birding is excellent. You will add many species here unavailable in ‘T&T’, includingSt Lucia Parrot, Wren, Oriole, Black Finch, Warbler, and Antillean Pewee. Other specialities include St LuciaNightjar, Antillean Bullfinch, Purple-throated Carib, Green-throated Carib, Antillean Crested Hummingbird,White-breasted Thrasher, Scaly-breasted Thrasher, Pearly-eyed Thrasher, Gray Trembler, Antillean Euphonia,Lesser Antillean Flycatcher and Lesser Antillean Saltator.

On Trinidad, the Asa Wright experience is unforgettable. Birds include Tufted Coquette, Barred Antshrike,Violaceous Trogon, Channel-billed Toucan, Golden-headed Manakin, Bearded Bellbird, Chestnut Woodpecker,Rufous-tailed Jacamar, and rare Moriche Oriole among many others. We enjoy key ‘Trini’ experiences includingScarlet Ibis coming to roost, the Oilbirds in Dunstan Cave, the Caribbean coast and the open grasslands, andthe birdlife of the northern primary forest. We also seek key species including endemic Trinidadian Piping-guanand visit a secluded beach to watch giant Leatherback Turtles egg laying.

Tobago is beautiful and laid-back, a fitting final destination for ourholiday. We explore the forested areas to find specialities includingBlue-backed Manakin and White-tailed Sabrewing and visit the jewelof Little Tobago in a glass-bottomed boat to see boobies, frigatebirdsand tropicbirds.

On each island we are joined by the best available local experts, withwhom we have worked for many years. All are adept birders who knowhow to produce key species for you with a minimum of exertion!Experience a kaleidoscope of bird life, butterflies and wildflowers, set against the impenetrable tangle of the forest ona relaxed and enjoyable holiday. A classic Caribbean birdingexperience!

TRINIDAD, TOBAGO AND ST LUCIAOur unique three island Caribbean adventure- now with egg-laying Leatherback Turtles!

THURS 23 APRIL – TUES 5 MAYPRICE: £4695pp Single Supplement: £495 Deposit: £800pp Leader Mike Coleman joined by expert local guides on each island. Max. 12 clients.Departures from London Gatwick. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

FREE! ‘Birds of Trinidad and Tobago’ by RichardFrench is included in your holiday price (one copy perroom booked).

FREE! ‘Birds of Vietnam’ byRichard C Craik and Lê Quý Minh isincluded in your holiday price (onecopy per room booked).



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Memorable and often enchanting, this tour is filled with birds,mammals, landscape and lifestyle experiences. Key places includethe country's two finest reserves, Chitwan National Park and KoshiTappu. We also have an excellent day birding at BOTH ends ofthe tour, as we drive to the 2,740-metre summit of Phulchowkiclose to Kathmandu, where our birdlist will grow quickly withSuchit; on this trip, you have friends in high places!

The holiday is primarily focused on birding, including winteringwetland birds, passerines from Siberia and high Himalayanbreeders plus many resident species. Expect well over 200 birdsincluding woodpeckers, minivets, warblers, flycatchers, laughing-thrushes, yuhinas, fulvettas, sunbirds and flowerpeckers. We lookfor rare Ibisbill and may see sought-after and delightful Eurasianspecies including Red-flanked Bluetail, Siberian Rubythroat andWallcreeper. Other fantastic birds include Cutia, Swamp Francolin,Tickell's Red-breasted Blue Flycatcher and many more - a big listof special species!

Chitwan holds a wealth of mammals, and we seek these as weexplore by jeep, rubber boat and on foot. Greater One-horned(Indian) Rhinoceros, Wild Boar, Sambar, Muntjac, Spotted and HogDeer, Indian Grey Mongoose, Rhesus and Common LangurMonkey are among the commoner mammals, and Sloth Bear andGaur may also be seen, as may Gharial, Mugger Crocodile, GangesRiver Dolphin and if we are lucky, Bengal Tiger.

At the end of the holiday we include a thrilling Mount Everestpanoramic flight, plus a fascinating visit to some of Kathmandu'sfamous monumental sites, often regarded as a highlight of thetrip by many.

NEPAL Birding and mammals for the first-time visitorWED 11 MARCH – WED 25 MARCHPRICE: £3995pp Single Supplement: £595 Deposit: £1000pp Leader top Nepalese guide Suchit Basnet joined by Heatherlea guide Toby Green withmore than 8 clients. Max 12 clients. Departure from London Heathrow. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

FREE! ‘Birds of Nepal’ byRichard Grimmett and CarolInskipp is included in yourholiday price.

Often described as ‘The Roof of the World’, the Tibetan Plateau has long held a fascination forwestern birders, and we are delighted to offer this spectacular tour visiting the major birding sitesboth here and also in Xining, the capital of Qinghai province in central China. We travel duringsummer, when birds are at their most active and the weather should be relatively mild amongwonderful high-altitude scenery.

We begin in Xining the westernmost province of China, progressing to Chaka, the RubberMountain, Er La Shan Pass, Nangqian, and finally Yushu from where we transfer by air to Lhasa, thecentre of the Tibetan Buddhist world for over a thousand years. There are many endemic andlocalised species to look for, including Szecheny's Monal Partridge, Tibetan Snowcock, HimalayanSnowcock, Tibetan Eared-Pheasant, Prince Henri's (Brown-cheeked) Laughingthrush, Giant Babax,Black-necked Crane, Ibisbill, Tibetan Sandgrouse,Tibetan Lark, Mongolian Lark, Pink-tailed Finch, PereDavid's, Henri's and Blanford’s Snowfinch and manymore. We also plan to devote time looking formammals including the rare and beautiful SnowLeopard. In Lhasa we enjoy both birding and culturalhighlights at Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple andBarkor Street, before a dinner withtraditional dancing. A truly memorabletour to ‘The Roof of the World’!

NEW! CHINA – TIBETAN PLATEAU Qinghai province and the 'The Roof of the World'

SAT 13 JUNE – TUES 30 JUNE PRICE: £5995pp Single supplement: £625 Deposit: £1500pp Leader Dave Pullan joined by an experienced local guide. Max 12 clients. Departure from London Heathrow. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

FREE! ‘Field Guide to the Birdsof China’ by Fen-qi He (one copyper room booked).


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t: 01479 821248 e: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk Instagram: @heatherleabirds30

Goa is extremely rich in birdlife, and our days promise outstanding birdlife, asGoa boasts a huge variety of birds despite its small size. Key habitats areconcentrated, and our itinerary features many small, easily worked areas. We visitall the best sites and stay at just three centres, so that relatively little travel isinvolved.

There are approx 28 endemics within the Western Ghats, with many regionalspecialities and near-endemics also. We seek Malabar Whistling Thrush, MalabarBarbet, 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 FairyBluebird and Golden-fronted Leafbird to name but a few. Key Asian migrantsincluding Citrine Wagtail, Greenish and Paddyfield Warbler, Bluethroat (red-spotted race) and several species of pipit may be seen along with up to eightspecies of Kingfisher. Bee-eaters are stunning birds and if lucky we will encounterBlue-tailed, Chestnut-headed, Little Green and others. In wetlands and on the coasts, we look for Terek andMarsh Sandpiper, Pacific Golden Plover, Lesser and Greater Sandplover with beautiful Painted Snipe perhapsalso featuring on our lists, which are likely to exceed 200 species on this enjoyable holiday.

This is the ideal choice for the first-time birding visitor to India. The state’s infrastructure is well developed,making it easy to get around, and we expect our stay to be comfortable and enjoyable. Weather conditionsare usually warm, dry and sunny at this time of year, and our itinerary will be very flexible. We find time toenjoy some memorable cultural experiences without detracting from the birding. We visit the 12th centuryMahadev Temple at Tambdi Surla - the oldest Hindu temple in Goa, and take a walk around Old Goa, theformer capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site where historically significant buildings include themagnificent Sé Cathedral and Basilica of Bom Jesus.

Your Leader, popular Heatherlea Guide Toby Green, has birded Goa extensively, and this is one of his favouritebirding destinations in the world. He is very much looking forward to showing you the birdlife and culture ofthis superb destination!

FREE! ‘Birds of Southern India’by Richard Grimmet and TimInskipp, is included in your holidayprice (one copy per room booked).

INDIA - GOA A relaxed and enjoyable birding tour from the Kancun coast to the Western Ghats.

FRI 15 NOVEMBER – SAT 30 NOVEMBER 2019 FRI 13 NOVEMBER – SAT 28 NOVEMBER 2020

PRICE (2019): £3495pp Single Supplement: £425 Deposit: £800pp Leader Toby Green plus local guide. Max 12 clients.Departure from London Gatwick. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

This holiday is an enjoyable combination of mammal watching, birding and sightseeing, as we pass throughfascinating cities, pastoral landscapes and protected forests on a splendid introduction to the wildlife andculture of northern India.We begin at two of the best birding sites in the north Indian Plains, Bharatpur, India’s most famous birdsanctuary, and the Chambal River, one of the healthiest river environments in India. Birding at Bharatpur isvaried and exciting, with wetland birds on man-made lakes and marshes, including Sarus Crane, Black-neckedand Painted Stork, Indian Spot-billed and Comb Duck, Black Bittern, Indian Scops-owl, Orange-headed Thrushand Siberian Rubythroat in a mosaic of habitats. The Chambal River, a serene stretch of water that feeds India’sagricultural heartland, is home to Indian Skimmer, as well as the curious Gharial and Ganges River Dolphin.We visit the magnificent Taj Mahal and Red Fort in Agra, before driving back to Delhi to take an internal flightbetween Delhi and Jabalpur, avoiding a long road journey. Bandhavgarh National Park is perhaps the mostreliable reserve for Tiger sightings in India, and six game drives in jeeps for our exclusive use will provideexcellent chances for memorable Tiger encounters. As we drive through the jungle and grasslands we willencounter a whole host of other mammals, which might include Leopard, Jackal, Jungle Cat, Grey Langur,Rhesus Macaque, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, and if we are lucky perhaps Sloth Bear or apack of the secretive Dhole (Indian Wild Dog). More than 250 bird species are known from the reserve, andLesser Adjutant, Stork-billed Kingfisher, Emerald Dove, Brown Fish Owl, Mottled Wood Owl, Grey-headedFish Eagle, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Shahin Falcon, Orange-headed Thrush and Tickell's Blue Flycatcher may beseen. Safari space at the best reserves is limited, and at Bandhavgarh, where chances of Tiger sightings are verygood, we need to book well in advance.We use good accommodation, comfortable transport in what can be an uncomfortable country,the services of a professional India-based ground agent and an experienced Heatherlea guideaccompanied by a knowledgeable local naturalist throughout. Two internal flights maximisetime available in the field, and once you arrive in India,you will be aware how much all these things add to theexperience! This itinerary is ideal for the enthusiast whowants to see Tigers whilst enjoying excellent birding andkey elements of India’s rich heritage.

INDIA – BIRDS, TIGERS and TAJ MAHALBharatpur, Chambal, Agra & Bandhavgarh

MON 2 MARCH – THURS 12 MARCH PRICE: £3495pp Single Supplement: £375 Deposit: £800pp

Leader Dave Pullan joined by experienced local guide Leio De Souza. Max 12 clients Departure from London Heathrow. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

FREE! ‘Birds of the IndianSubcontinent’ by Carol Inskippand Richard Grimmett, is includedin your holiday price (one copyper room booked).


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31t: 01479 821248 e: [email protected] www.heatherlea.co.uk Instagram: @heatherleabirds

NEW! ‘GRAND TOUR’ of QUEENSLAND, S.EAUSTRALIA & TASMANIA

NEW! QUEENSLANDTHURS 12 NOVEMBER – MON 23 NOVEMBER 2020PRICE: £4995pp Single Supplement: £695 Deposit: £1000ppLeader Phil Knott plus local guide Max Beckenbridge. Max 12clients. Departure from London Heathrow. Pre-flight airport hoteland lounge are included.

This outstanding itinerary takes us to some amazingly significant areas, manywith World Heritage status. We begin in Cairns, staying here for a couple ofnights to acclimatise before heading for the Atherton Tablelands, a fertileplateau which contains several small remnants of protected rainforest,classified by BirdLife International as one of Australia's Important Bird Areas,with several endemic birds and mammals. We stay here four nights beforeheading for the famous Daintree River area, where we add many more birdsand mammals.

Perhaps a highlight will be our visit to The Great Barrier Reef, the largest, mostspectacular coral reef system in the world. We are birding here, though giantclams, turtles and an array of colourful fish can be seen as we pass through thecoral gardens.

Birds may include Southern Cassowary, Australian Bustard, Lovely Fairy-wren,Victoria’s Riflebird, Superb Fruit-Dove, Sarus Crane, Plumed Whistling-Duck,Pacific Baza, Spotted Harrier, Lesser Sooty Owl, Southern Boobook, Tooth-billed Catbird, Fairy & Brown Gerygones, Chowchilla, Double-eyed Fig-Parrot, Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo, Pale-headed Rosella, Blue-wingedKookaburra, Azure Kingfisher, Fairy Martin, Papuan Frogmouth, Scaly-breastedLorikeet, Helmeted Friarbird, and a chance of rare and localised Great-billedHeron. Mammals and reptiles may include Striped Possum, Long-nosedBandicoot, Musky Rat Kangaroo, Green Ringtail Possum,Red-legged Pademelon, Agile Wallaby, SaltwaterCrocodile, Amethystine Python & Common Tree Snake.

TASMANIA & S.E AUSTRALIA SAT 21 NOVEMBER – TUES 8 DECEMBER 2020PRICE: £6895pp Single Supplement: £995 Deposit: £1500pp Leader Phil Knott plus local guide Max Beckenbridge. Max 12clients. Departure from London Heathrow. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

We begin on mainland Australia, covering a variety of habitats all within a fewhours easy drive of Melbourne. Target birds include Emu, Laughing Kookaburra,White-naped, Painted and Yellow-faced Honeyeater, Speckled Warbler, Black-eared Cuckoo, Little Lorikeet, Long-billed Corella, Zebra Finch, Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, White-winged Chough, Galah, Brolga, Rufous Bristlebirdand delightful Southern Emu-wren. Wetland birds are abundant and flocks ofover 1000 Pink-eared Ducks are possible. Mammals include Black and Red-necked Wallaby and Eastern Grey Kangaroo, and we may be fortunate enoughto encounter Koala. We enjoy a night excursion to seek Brush-tailed and Ring-tailed Possum and, if very fortunate, Sugar Glider.

Our Tasmania tour is a superb tour of the island, covering all its habitats fromthe mountains through primary forest down to the rich coastline, with awealth of birding and wildlife opportunities. We visit exceptional places toseek rare wildlife, and endemic birds include Scrubtit, Tasmanian Scrubwren,Pink Robin, Green Rosella, Tasmanian Native Hen, Black Currawong, TasmanianThornbill, Strong-billed Honeyeater, Dusky Robin, Forty-spotted Pardalote andoddly adorned Yellow Wattlebird. One of the most exciting aspects is ouroptional pelagic cruise into the Southern Ocean. Although weatherdependent, it is sheltered from the prevailing winds and has a good chance ofgoing all the way to the continental shelf, where we could encounter between20-30 species of tubenose, with numerous species of albatross and shearwaterlikely, as well as Seals, Dolphins and Whales.

Mammals and marsupials include Common Wombat, Tasmanian Pademelon,Southern Brown Bandicoot, Long-nosed Potoroo, Eastern and Spotted-tailedQuoll and both Short-beaked Echidna,and bizarre looking Platypus, Australia’s two egg-laying montreme species. One of Australia’s mostthreatened and charismatic mammals is Tasmanian Devil, and we have anexcellent opportunity to view and photograph these elusive creatures.

Australia holds a huge range of bird families and species, many of which are endemicto the continent. The sheer scale of vast distances and logistical issues mean thatmost birders need to be selective, so in 2020 we have concentrated on two key areasto offer tours which can be seen as alternatives, or which can be combined to offer a‘Grand Tour’ covering some of the most sought-after places on the continent. Our tour runs in the Australian spring, featuringpleasant temperatures, longer days and migratory birds arriving from their northern winter grounds. Should you wish toextend your holiday, perhaps travelling onwards to other parts of Australia or New Zealand or making a stopover en-route,we can arrange flight and hotel options to suit your requirements under our ATOL Licence 6113, please ask.

THURS 12 NOVEMBER – TUES 8 DECEMBER 2020PRICE: £9995pp Single Supplement: £1690 Deposit: £1600ppLeader Phil Knott plus local guide. Max 12 clients. Departure from London Gatwick. Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge are included.

NEW! GRAND TOURBoth of the below itineraries including transfer from Cairns to Melbourne.

FREE! ‘Birds of Australia’ by Ken Simpson and Nicholas Day is included in your holiday price (one copy per room booked).



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Heatherlea are Scotland’s premier birding and wildlife holiday operator.Founded in 1991, we will celebrate our 30th season at our HQ, TheMountview Hotel in Nethy Bridge, in the heart of the beautiful CairngormsNational Park, in the Scottish Highlands. We offer birdwatching and wildlifeholidays every week from Jan – Nov, and you can come at any season;wildlife is always great in this part of the world. Stunning and variedhabitats are close at hand, and from mountains and ancient forest towonderful coastline and beautiful islands, you will visit Britain’s mostbreathtaking scenery. We are not ‘intensive’ or ‘twitchers’, but are dedicatedto showing you wildlife, and above all, we have fun. You won’t feel out ofplace if you have less experience than others, and many of our guestsbecome friends visiting year after year. We take care to make sure everyoneenjoys an unforgettable holiday.

We show you all the wildlife, and include all accommodation, food, travel,access fees and ferry charges. You get terrific value from our fully inclusiveholidays, so book with confidence – there are no hidden extras!

Our full-week ‘Scottish Highlands’ holidays take you to places close to ourHotel, where wildlife is special. Many also include a night or two in asecond centre for your comfort, as far away as Handa, the Orkney Islands,Skye, Mull, or the isles of Lewis and Harris. This is a unique way to see the‘Highlands and Islands’ during one visit, made possible with Heatherleabecause we own our hotel and keep your room secure, while you enjoybirding the islands.

Above all, your holiday includes the services of a Heatherlea Guide, a veryvaluable asset. We are famous for great guiding and personal care, and ourexpert leaders know that the really important part of any holiday is theexperience for you, our valued customer. Much more than a friend to helpyou identify birds, your Heatherlea Guide plans your entire holiday, from

tremendous quality and value

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briefing on the first evening to round-up on the last. They organiseeverything to suit wildlife, weather and your progress through the week,and because our groups are small, have time to care about your personalexperience. This isn’t just whether or not you saw the bird or animal, butwhether you are getting the most from your holiday. We maintain theemphasis on personal service, with a limit of just seven clients per guideon all our full-week Scottish trips. Heatherlea are the first mainlandWildlife Experience to be awarded five stars, the highest possible rating,by VisitScotland.

GROUPSHeatherlea organise group holidays for magazines, RSPB Members Groups,wildlife organisations, other holiday operators, and groups of friends. Weare very experienced and can take the hassle away from holidayorganisation and delivery. Just relax and let us look after you! Groupholidays can be tailored exactly to suit your needs. You can bring anynumber of people, any time of year, to see any combination of birds andmammals, and we offer very attractive terms. If you would like to chatover the possibilities, please ring. You will be surprised how easy it is withHeatherlea!

‘SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS’ WITH HEATHERLEAYour gateway to Scottish birds and wildlife!

Choose Heatherlea, the Scottish birding specialists with everything you need.



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Our resident Guides are very experienced Scottish leaders with unbeatablelocal knowledge. Mike Coleman, Ian Ford, George Gay, Toby Green, RobJordan, Phil Knott, Scott O’Hara, John Picton, Jonny Pott, Dave Pullan, KevinShaw and Mark Warren are highly skilled birders and real ‘people people’,who can’t wait to show you the wonderful wildlife of the Scottish Highlands!

We are birding continuously, building knowledge each week as the seasonsunfold. Where is the best place for Crossbills this year? Which Blackcock lekis still going strong? Where are Golden Eagles actually being seen? YourHeatherlea Guide knows where the birds have been showing, and the bestway to maximise your chances. We gather an enormous reservoir ofinformation not available anywhere else, and always try to make sureeveryone sees the birds. Heatherlea work alongside local landowners andestates to develop brilliant birding close to hand, often with unique access,and there are some extra benefits too. As an example, we never leave before6am to see Black Grouse and Capercaillie.

Relax and enjoy your holiday as we look after the details and find wildlife foryou. No wonder our groups have a happy and friendly atmosphere!

Don’t forget that our holidays show you all Scotland’s birds and other wildlife.We have a huge choice, with full-week holidays and short breaks for busybirders. Whichever you choose, all holidays include everything you need. Youmay be tempted to ‘do it yourself’, but don’t forget how much more you willspend on fuel, guided trips, lunches, ferries, wildlife watches and access toreserves – and that’s before you have found the wildlife you came to see!

Heatherlea travel by roomy minibus, important for birders. Passengers getlots of leg room, good all-round visibility, the chance to reach out for optics,and great views when we need to stay inside. We probably see Capercaillie,Black Grouse, Red Grouse and Short-eared Owl better inside the minibusthan from outside!

CHOOSE HEATHERLEA GUIDES FOR SCOTTISH WILDLIFE

You can’t beat Nethy Bridge as a Scottish birding base, as seen recently onBBC Springwatch! We are on the edge of the Abernethy Forest, and a casualstroll can produce Capercaillie, Scottish Crossbill and Crested Tit beforebreakfast. Red Squirrel, Siskin and Great Spotted Woodpecker are regular onour feeding station, Osprey and Buzzard pass overhead, and Dipper breed onthe clear River Nethy 200 metres away. Kestrel, Hobby, Merlin, Sparrowhawk,Peregrine and even Golden Eagle, Goshawk and White-tailed Eagle are onour ‘hotel list’. Woodcock are common in spring and summer, Grey Wagtail,Goldeneye, several breeding waders, and even Otter and Pine Marten have allbeen spotted within a mile or two, especially along the nearby River Spey. Insummer we have Tawny Owl and perhaps Long-eared Owl with young, andBlack Grouse and Ptarmigan are within a few miles reach. With extensive localwalks and trails in this unspoilt and delightful Highland location, earlymorning 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. ‘Nethy’is just right – brilliant for birding, close to services, yet unspoilt and delightfulin character. A real Highland village at the heart of the Cairngorms NationalPark!

We have carefully designed each holiday to give you the best wildlifewatching 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. Youcan count on Heatherlea to find key Scottish wildlife whenever you visit – awealth of wonderful wildlife experiences! Ideally placed to reach everyimportant habitat, we can easily transfer east or west, to see that special birdwhich puts the cap on a great week.

NETHY BRIDGE, the centre of Scottish birdwatching

‘Exceptional’VisitScotland

‘The whole day was very enjoyable and expertly led. To achieve an awardof five stars, a score of at least 85% must be achieved. Heatherlea scoreat this level or higher in every category, and the award of five stars isconfirmed.’

VisitScotland.



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Our ‘Scottish Highland’ holidays are based at our own property, The MountviewHotel, a 3-star Edwardian Country House Hotel in the charming village of NethyBridge, in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. The Mountview is certainlywell named; the peak of Cairn Gorm can be seen from our front door, and gloriousviews of three ranges extend many miles across the Cairngorms, Monadhliaths,and the four Kincardine peaks. The ancient Caledonian Forest begins behind theHotel, and the clear River Nethy is just 200 metres away.

The Mountview is set in two acres of attractive grounds featuring native ScotsPine and Silver Birch. Guests are welcome to explore, and in season you will findblaeberry and chanterelle. Our busy bird feeding station attracts Crested Tit,Siskin, Redpoll, Goldfinch and our local Red Squirrel population, and ourwildflower meadow holds Moonwort and Northern Marsh Orchid. You are alsowelcome to view our highly productive kitchen garden, which provides our tablewith seasonal herbs, salad greens and vegetables.

From the moment you arrive you will be made to feel at home. Inviting publicrooms include a welcoming lounge with deep seated, comfortable sofas and openlog fire; a peaceful reading room stocked with natural history books andmagazines; a private residents’ dining room with fresh flowers and a well-stockedrestaurant bar with glorious mountain views. Guests enjoy attractive en-suitebedrooms 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 importantfeature of evenings after dinner. Above all, when birding is over for the day, wehave attentive staff who take care and really make you welcome. Non-birdingguests are welcome.

Our award-winning kitchen team is led by Caryl and highly skilled Head ChefEttienne Els. Expect a wide selection of fresh Scottish produce, bought locallywhere possible, and prepared with skill and imagination by highly trained chefs.If you have special dietary needs, we cater personally for you and offerimaginative vegetarian and vegan dishes. Dinner is usually at 7pm, allowing timeto relax after an exhilarating day in the field, and our groups eat together in ourResidents’ Dining Room. You can expect a variety of traditional food, full offlavour and offering a delicious taste of Scotland. To accompany your meal, our

Wine List offers high quality wines, and excellent value. You can also choose froma wide selection of local beers, malts, other spirits (try our range of Scottish gins!)and soft drinks.

THE MOUNTVIEW RESTAURANTNon-residents are welcome in our popular Restaurant. Many of our birding friendsjoin us for dinner here, especially either side of a SCOTTISH ISLAND holiday. Non-residents/guests are welcome to join you for dinner.

GREEN HEATHERLEAOur kitchen is a hive of activity, and we pride ourselves on the artisanal nature of our Hotel. Caryl makes all our jams and jellies herself and is often out sourcingsoft fruit from local farms, handpicking rowanberries in local woodland orchoosing just the right fruit for our preserves. Strawberry, damson, worcesterberry,rhubarb and ginger, rowan jelly, apple jelly, marmalade and lemon curd are just aselection, and from the local forests we gather blackberries, chanterelle, porcini,and blewits.

Over the years our list of home bakes has become extensive; as well as ourrenowned flapjacks and shortbreads, we also make banana bread, ginger cake, fruitcake, carrot cake and many different sponge cakes. Baskets of homemade breadand rolls accompany dinner, and these may include buttery brioche, wholemealplaited bread, Italian-style ciabatta, spelt bread, pain brie, granary rolls, bath bunsor ale bread.

As part of our policy of using the best, freshest produce, we manage our ownvegetable garden, where produce is grown according to organic principles. Ourgarden provides most of our herbs, and almost everything in summer has a flavourfrom our garden. Expect a selection from mange-tout peas, sugar snap peas,tomatoes, Swiss chard, courgettes, garlic, pak choi cabbage, beetroot, broccoli,potatoes, curly kale, lovage, tarragon, thyme, fennel, dill, landcress, rocket, sage,lemon balm, ginger mint, applemint, spearmint, and cos, curly endive, freckles,lollo rosso, green salad bowl and red salad bowl lettuces. Our own Kitchen Gardenreduces food miles and our salads and vegetables taste great too!

THE MOUNTVIEW HOTEL – your perfect birding base!

‘our’ Long-eared Owl!



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BY CAR From the west travel north to Perth. From the easttravel via Forth Road Bridge and M90 to Perth. From Perth take A9signposted Inverness and exit north of Aviemore. Follow signsnortheast through Boat of Garten to Nethy Bridge (10 miles). In NethyBridge, drive through the village, over the River Nethy, and you will see our sign 200metres ahead on the right.

BY COACH Scottish Citylink (www.citylink.co.uk 0871 266 3333) Coach travel ispossible from England but takes a long time – most of our guests prefer rail or air travel.

BY RAIL The best train to Aviemore is the ‘Highland Chieftain’operated by London North Eastern Railway. This leaves LondonKings Cross at 12.00, arriving Aviemore at 19.27. This train stops atYork (13.54), Darlington (14:23), Newcastle (14.56) and Edinburgh (16.34). Change of trainmay 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, wherea trip across the city between stations is needed, often followed by a change at Perth.

Return trains to Edinburgh leave Aviemore at 07.25, 08.30 (fast train to London –recommended), and 10.20. Please check details before you travel. Rail enquiries: 03457484950, www.nationalrail.co.uk.

BY AIR New flights to Inverness are becomingavailable all the time, for latest info call our office.Fly from:

Heathrow – British AirwaysGatwick, Luton, Bristol – EasyjetBelfast, Birmingham, Jersey – FlybeManchester – LoganairAmsterdam - KLM

www.flybe.com (0371 700 2000)www.easyjet.com (0330 365 5000)www.ba.com (0844 493 0787)www.loganair.co.uk (0344 800 2855)

Travel from Inverness Airport to Nethy Bridge by taxi, or by rail fromInverness to Aviemore. We can provide current details by phone or email.

Disclaimer: This information is published to help you and all details werecorrect at June 2019, but we offer no guarantee of services. Please check alldetails before you travel!

Transfers between Nethy Bridge and Aviemore – FREE!Our courtesy collect and return service runs between Aviemore and TheMountview Hotel. Pick-up is at 16.30 hours and 19:30 hours, and drop-offat 08:20 hours and 10:20 hours, on SATURDAYS ONLY. Please give at least24 hrs notice when booking.

CAPERCAILLIE and the‘Heatherlea Private Estate’

GETTING HERE IS EASYReaching Nethy Bridge is easy. Here are some suggestions to help you plan.

Guidelines for watching Capercaillie have been issued by theScottish Capercaillie Group, a national body whose membersinclude RSPB Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage, Forestry andLand Scotland, Scottish Forestry, Cairngorms National ParkAuthority, Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust and ScottishLand and Estates. Heatherlea fully supports these guidelines,which are published on our website, and we look for Capercailliein a safe and responsible manner. We feel our methods give thebest opportunity in Scotland to see these spectacular birds.Much of Scotland’s remaining population is within a few milesof Mountview Hotel, and we see the birds all year round. Ourexperienced and capable guides have their ear to the ground,and our local knowledge and strong contacts give you the verybest chances whenever you come.

A key advantage is our relationship with local landowners,especially our unique ‘Private Estate’ access, currently in its 24thseason. We enter through secure gates, and stay inside our‘mobile hide’ minibuses, which are high enough to allow goodviews above the berries carpeting the forest floor, as we drivealong tracks with keen eyes to all sides. In spring, birds are oftenperched in trees, snipping new growth from the branches. Insummer and autumn, birds are more frequently seen on theground, and often stand to attention, or slowly walk into theforest. We pay note to areas recently cleared of trees, whereberries are exposed and Capercaillie come to feed. Usingvehicles is very sensible, as the birds do not generally regard ourbuses as a threat. Secondly, our group is kept together, so oftenthe bird is enjoyed by everyone, rather than by one or twopeople at the front of a group on foot, when birds are highlylikely to take flight. We are the only wildlife/birding touroperator authorised to look for Capercaillie inside these lands.

Our record of finding the birds is very good, however we do notaccept specific commissions to look for Capercaillie at any time,so please do not ask us to 'show you a Capercaillie', you shouldinstead join one of our advertised tours, and we will pick thebest day to look for the birds. Our highly professional Guidesand many clients are equally keen to keep the best interests ofthe birds in mind, and whilst sightings are not guaranteed, wehave a very high success rate over many years – you really cansee Capercaillie!



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‘Scottish Highlands’ holidays include everything you need for agreat birding holiday. En-suite accommodation, all foodincluding breakfast, packed lunch and dinner, all minibustransportation, ferries, access charges, guidance and much moreare included in the price.

Your holiday (based on a full week itinerary) includes:� seven nights en-suite accommodation. A VisitScotland approved three-starhotel, The Mountview Hotel in Nethy Bridge has comfortable en-suite roomsincluding TV and hospitality tray.

� THERE IS NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT, and guests are never expected to share.Single guests may be upgraded to a double room at no extra charge. Deposit is£200PP.

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

� seven days with Heatherlea, including full Scottish breakfast, a substantialpacked lunch (six days) and a delicious dinner.

� Your holiday will be led by one or more of our resident Guides, Mike Coleman,Ian Ford, George Gay, Toby Green, Rob Jordan, Phil Knott, Scott O’Hara, JohnPicton, Jonny Pott and Mark Warren.

� All transport by comfortable minibus.

� The services of your Guide during six full days birding, including optional earlyand late excursions. Maximum group size seven clients per Guide (or eight clientsduring four-night holidays).

� All access fees, ferry charges and transfers.

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

� A checklist specifically prepared for your holiday to record your sightings andnotes.

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 yourholiday price.

Field Notes – Scottish Highlands

How our Scottish Highlands holidays work:

✦ Breakfast is usually at 7.30am or 8.00am. Sometimes we organise an earlierbreakfast if we have a distance to travel, you will be given full information duringthe holiday. We leave for a full day (with a substantial packed lunch!), returningabout 5.30pm – 6.00pm for dinner at 7.00pm. Dinner on arrival date may be alittle earlier or later to suit train timetables, and early breakfast is available onthe final day.

✦ Expect a wide variation of weather, whenever you visit Scotland! Bring warmclothing, waterproofs, and walking boots or shoes. Bring binoculars and atelescope if possible. A camera may be useful too! You don’t need flasks for hotdrinks, or wellies.

WALKINGWalking is generally light to moderate, and if you can walk a couple of miles inhalf a day you will find these holidays very comfortable. Many days containhardly any walking at all, as we take you directly to key sites. An exception isour mountain day, where walking can be strenuous, particularly in the monthsMay – July when we usually require a long walk to see Ptarmigan and especiallyDotterel. You can ‘opt-out’ of this day if you wish. A specific ‘Easy Walking’itinerary is available on specified dates, and we take you to a different locationto look for Ptarmigan.

BITING INSECTSBiting insects are not expected January to May, or October to December. In themonths June to September, biting insects are not generally a problem. We don’tlinger around standing water, and if insects do occur, we move away!

TURNING THE TIDE AGAINST PLASTICPicnic lunches prepared at Heatherlea are now virtually free of disposableplastic (clingfilm is used sparingly). We don’t use plastic water bottles, sandwichboxes or cutlery, and re-usable mugs are provided for drinks. We have asked allour partner agents and hotels around the world to do the same.

IMPORTANT NOTESThe interests of wildlife come first on a Heatherlea holiday. We never disturbor alarm wildlife, and fully support countryside and birdwatching codes ofconduct. We also respect the wishes and instructions of landowners and ask ourguests to adopt the same approach.

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

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS HOLIDAYS (pages 38 – 51)On our Scottish Highland weeks you can expect 100 – 135 species depending on the season,including all the key Scottish birds. For more details including a Trip Report see our websitewww.heatherlea.co.uk . If you have any questions, please contact us, we will be happy to answerany questions you may have. Emma, Fleur, Jolene, Lindsay, Alan and Kevin are here to help.

Your guide(s) will be a member of the Heatherlea team: Mike Coleman, Ian Ford, George Gay,Toby Green, Rob Jordan, Phil Knott, Scott O'Hara, John Picton, Jonny Pott, Dave Pullan, Kevin Shawor Mark Warren.

Weekly holidays begin with dinner on Saturday evening, though you are welcome to arrive anytime after 2pm. The holiday finishes after breakfast on the final Saturday. Don’t forget our courtesycollection and return service to Aviemore on Saturdays – see ‘Getting here is Easy’.



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PICTURE CREDITSOur thanks go to many people who provided images for use in this brochure. Our apologies to anyone wehave missed!

Photos: Photos: Peg Abbott, David Acfield, Jolene Allan, Eric Angus, Hilary Atkins, Suchit Basnet, Nigel Bewley,Birdlife Belarus, David Boorman, Paul Carter, Mike Coleman, Peter Cosgrove, Wilson Diaz, Knut Eisermann, MagsFewkes, Finnature, Jeff Fisher, Ian Ford, Liz and Roy Gaff, George Gay, Simeon Gigov, Gerard Gorman, TobyGreen, Trausti Gunnarsson, Gareth Hawkes, Andy Jones, Rob Jordan, Tang Jun, Phil Knott, James Leonard, MurdoMacdonald, Paco Madrigal, Emma McBride, Neil McIntyre, Chrys Mellor, Orsolya Meszaros, Derek Mills, AdrianMills, Scott O’Hara, Gabor & Andrea Orban, Jari Peltomaki, Pablo Petracci, Heinz Plenge, Jonny Pott, DavePullan, Rupert Pye, Stephen Rutt, Josele Saiz, Graeme & Karen Searle, Kevin Shaw, Rob Skinner, Rodrigo Tapia,Ted Smith, Greg Smith, Nigel Sprowell, Allison Stone, Matt Sullivan, Pat Taylor, Adams Toussaint, ChrisTownend, Paul & Janet Tublin, David Tillman, Andres Trujillo, Mladen Vasilev, Glenn Vermeersch, WashingtonWachira, Mark Warren, David Whitaker, Sue Whitehead.Cartoons for ‘Getting here is easy!’ Clive Francis.

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 equippedwith Swarovski telescopes which they are happy to share, though of course youmight have to wait for a look! Please book loan binoculars in advance; availabilityis limited and cannot be guaranteed.

‘You have an excellent working relationshipwith Swarovski Optik who have providedsome very expensive binoculars that youoffer on free loan to your guests; this is anexcellent extra service.’

VisitScotland

SEE THE UNSEEN

ATX THROUGHCOMPLETELY NEW EYES

BY APPOINTMENT TOHER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II

SWAROVSKI OPTIKSUPPLIER OF BINOCULARS



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Come to the Highlands and enjoy fantastic birding both before and after New Year. Weexplore in Strathspey, at the coast and perhaps further afield, depending on weather.During local days we concentrate on finding Black Grouse, Capercaillie, Crested Tit,Scottish Crossbill and Ptarmigan, with Golden Eagle soaring over the often snow-coveredhills, scattering coveys of Red Grouse off the summits. Both guides and guests frequentlycomment that this is the best time of year to see many Scottish species, with prolongedand confiding views of flighty birds such as Crested Tit, Goldcrest and Treecreeper.

If weather allows we will head to the West Coast to give our New Year list a real boost withtop targets including Great Northern and Black-throated Diver, Black Guillemot and White-tailed Eagle. A real chance of Otter too in some of the most stunning scenery in Scotland.We also enjoy a day in the glens as we target Golden Eagle, Dipper and hopefully a goodrange of other upland birds, which may include Peregrine, Goshawk or Hen Harrier. Red Deerand Mountain Hare should also show well in beautiful Highland surroundings.

Excursions to the coast, perhaps the Black Isle, the Moray Coast or even Aberdeenshire, mayyield a range of farmland and coastal species. In these habitats, winter lists can reach 60species in a day, where wildfowl, waders and passerine flocks can often number into thehundreds. We aim to round up any rarities within reach, perhaps including Ring-billed Gull,Surf Scoter, Great Grey Shrike, Snow Goose, Waxwing and any other northern surprises.

Hogmanay is a time of great celebration in the Highlands, and we may visit a nearby villageparty, which could typically involve live music and dancing. For those who prefer to stayindoors we will clear a space in our restaurant and celebrate ‘The Bells’ in the warmth.Breakfast is usually slightly later on the morning of 1 Jan, though with a brand new birdlistto begin you may wish to be up early!

Total species approx. 90. Other wildlife should include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer,Grey Seal, Common Seal, Mountain Hare, and possibly Otter.

Seven nights at Mountview Hotel

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS New Year Birdlist Booster (p38)

HOGMANAY BIRDING FESTIVALSAT 28 DECEMBER 2019 – SAT 4 JANUARY 2020, TUE 29 DECEMBER 2020 – TUE 5 JANUARY 2021PRICE: £1295pp‘Early Birder’ discounts may apply, contact us before booking! Full details anda Trip Report are on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 36.

This holiday is great fun, ideal for both the serious birder orbeginner, and a chance to get your 2020 British Yearlist off to acracking start! Key birds are those you have to visit Scotland tosee, so we target Capercaillie, Crested Tit, Ptarmigan, ScottishCrossbill, Black Grouse and Golden Eagle. Next we seek a host ofnorthern winter visitors, and during the rest of the week round-up rarities, including adventures at under-watched coastal spots.We spend a lot of time at the coast, where American Wigeonand King Eider are regular, and at this exciting time of yearanything can turn up, including exceptional rarities. By the end,you should have 'done' Scotland for your yearlist. Target 110+species, including many 'difficult' birds you might otherwise miss.

The holiday is based at Heatherlea’s HQ here at the Mountview Hotel in Nethy Bridge, whichgives us full flexibility to maximise our birding. We aim to spend two days in the forests andglens targeting the Scottish specials, striving for good views of all of the tough Highlandspecies, a real boost to any British yearlist! We include a trip to either the rugged West Coastin search of White-tailed Eagle and divers or visit the arable and flat Aberdeenshire coast.

Key Targets:Capercaillie, Black Grouse, Ptarmigan, Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Golden Eagle, White-tailed Eagle.

Probables:Whooper Swan, Pink-footed Goose, Pale-bellied Brent Goose, Greater Scaup, Long-tailedDuck, Common Scoter, Velvet Scoter, Red-breasted Merganser, Goosander, Red Grouse, Red-throated Diver, Great Northern Diver, Slavonian Grebe, Red Kite, Golden Plover, PurpleSandpiper, Iceland Gull, Peregrine, Dipper, Hooded Crow, Raven, Tree Sparrow, Lesser Redpoll,Common Crossbill, Snow Bunting and Yellowhammer.

NEW YEAR BIRDLIST BOOSTERSAT 4 JANUARY – SAT 11 JANUARY, SAT 11 JANUARY – SAT 18 JANUARY

PRICE: £1195pp‘Early Birder’ discounts may apply, contact us before booking! Full detailsand a Trip Report are on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 36.

Highly possible:Tundra Bean Goose, Barnacle Goose, King Eider, Surf Scoter, GreyPartridge, Hen Harrier, Goshawk, Merlin, Black-throated Diver, GlaucousGull, Waxwing, Great Grey Shrike, Brambling, Twite and Corn Bunting.

Outside chance/rarities (by no means a definitive list, all these havebeen seen at this time in the past few years):

Ross’s Goose, Red-breasted Goose, American Wigeon, Green-wingedTeal, American Coot, American Black Duck, Ring-necked Duck, BlackScoter, Harlequin Duck, White-billed Diver, Red-necked Grebe, GreaterYellowlegs, Parrot Crossbill, Bonaparte's Gull, Ring-billed Gull, Kumlien’sGull, Ross's Gull, Ivory Gull, Brünnich’s Guillemot and Little Auk.

Seven nights at Mountview Hotel.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSHogmanay Birding Festival (p38), Birders Blast (p39).



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SHORT BREAKS & BIRDERS BLASTSBIRDING SHORT BREAKS IN THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

Price: see panel. No single supp. ‘Early Birder’ discounts may apply, contact us before booking! Fulldetails are on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 36.

Ideal for your first wildlife holiday, or for busy birders who don't have a full week to spare, theseholidays are an exciting ‘dip’ into the birdlife of the Highlands, which should find many of the keyspecialities, and a host of northern birds difficult to see elsewhere in Britain. Our extensive localknowledge 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 experiencedHeatherlea Guide. Great fun and superb birding!

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

BIRDERS’ BLASTS are perfect for all levels of birding ability, but run at a slightly faster pace, packingin a lot of birds and lots of sites.

Outline Itinerary:DAY 1: Arrival, welcome, dinner and briefing. Don’t forget our courtesy collectand return service to Aviemore.DAY 2: LOCAL SPECIALITY DAYA pre-breakfast outing for Black Grouse, and we should also see Red Grouse.After breakfast, we visit ‘hotspots’ to see Crested Tit and other pinewoodspecies. Scottish Crossbill are usually present in small numbers though trickyto identify. We also seek Capercaillie in our private estate. Red Squirrel are onour Hotel feeders most days.DAY 3: EAGLE DAYA favourite day looking for Golden Eagle, our top target. Other species mightinclude Peregrine, Red Grouse, White-tailed Eagle and Raven, with Dipper atlower elevations. We should see Red Deer, Roe Deer, feral goats andMountain Hare. Many guests say this is the day they were hoping for whenthey chose to holiday in Scotland! DAY 3 Early Autumn only: WEST COAST SEATRIPTravel with us all the way to the Outer Hebrides! Seabirds might include Greatand Arctic Skua, Storm Petrel, Sooty and Manx Shearwater, Gannet, Kittiwake,

SHORT BREAKS IN WINTERPrice: £745pp Sun 26 January – Thurs 30 January, Thurs 30 January – Mon 3 February

BIRDERS’ BLAST IN WINTERPrice: £745pp Sat 18 January – Wed 22 January, Wed 22 January – Sun 26January, Mon 3 February – Fri 7 February, Fri 7 February –Tue 11 February, Tue 11 February – Sat 15 February

See Capercaillie, Golden Eagle, Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Black Grouseand more. Add waders, seaduck, divers, waders, gulls and farmland birds,and you have an absorbing and rewarding few days of winter birding.

SHORT BREAKS IN EARLY AUTUMNPrice: £725ppSat 15 August – Wed 19 August, Wed 19 August – Sun 23August, Sun 23 August – Thurs 27 August 2020Sea and coastal birding should be memorable as we catch early migration onan exciting pelagic birding adventure across The Minch to the OuterHebrides. We also round-up the best birding inland in August.

SHORT BREAKS IN AUTUMNPrice: £745ppSat 31 October – Wed 4 November, Sun 8 November – Thurs 12 November

BIRDERS BLAST’ IN AUTUMNPrice: £745ppWed 4 November – Sun 8 November, Thurs 12 November – Mon 16 NovemberSee Capercaillie, Golden Eagle, Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Black Grouseand much more. Add rare geese, seaduck, divers, waders, gulls and farmlandbirds, and you have an absorbing and rewarding few days birding duringNovember.

terns, gulls and auks including Puffin and Black Guillemot. Scarcer possibilities mayinclude Leach’s Petrel, Sabine’s Gull and both Long-tailed and Pomarine Skua. Closeto land, we have chances of White-tailed Eagle and Hooded Crow. Minke Whale,Basking Shark, Bottle-nosed and Common Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise are oftenseen too. Enjoy Scottish pelagic birding with experienced guides at the best timeof year!

DAY 4: COASTAL DAYThe Moray Coast, where winter birding is excellent, good numbers of Long-tailed Duck, Eider and rafts of Common and Velvet Scoter should feature.Goosander, Red-breasted Merganser, Slavonian Grebe, Red-throated and GreatNorthern Diver can also be seen offshore, and in recent years rarities includedKing Eider, Surf Scoter and White-billed Diver too. Iceland and Glaucous Gullare regular and many waders and wildfowl can be expected. This is an excellenttime to see farmland birds, including Corn Bunting, Tree Sparrow, Grey Partridge,Reed Bunting and Yellowhammer, with occasional Twite amongst the Linnets.

DAY 5: FINAL DAYBreakfast and depart

This outline itinerary is a guide only, actual holiday content may vary according to elements beyond our control (e.g. weather).



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A wonderful winter birding itinerary, as we seek speciality birds inland, visit Highlandcoastlines, including places less known to UK birders to round up the winter birds ofnorthern Scotland. This holiday almost always yields at least a few rarities and should beof great interest to all! Includes two nights in Thurso, in under-birded Caithness.

Locally we seek Black Grouse popping and cooing at the lek, Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbillin the nearby Abernethy Forest, and Capercaillie by safari in our private estate or elsewhere. Wevisit 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 allwhite in winter, as are Mountain Hare. Sutherland and Caithness are the most remote counties in Britain. On the way, Glaucous andIceland Gull are regular in harbours, and we may get lucky with a Ring-billed or even Bonaparte’s,Ross’s or Ivory Gull. In secluded coastal bays, wintering divers are occasionally joined by abeautiful White-billed, or storm driven Grey Phalarope or Little Auk. The far north supportslarge flocks of winter thrushes and Starlings, and also lots of Yellowhammer and Reed Buntingwithin which Twite, Brambling and Snow Bunting can lurk. This is a real birding adventure,depending on our skills, weather and a slice of luck – our list in recent years includes CommonCrane, American Wigeon, Greenland White-fronted Goose, Ring-necked Duck, Long-billedDowitcher and Bonaparte’s Gull. Other local birds are Hen Harrier, Peregrine, Short-eared Owl,Merlin, ‘real’ Rock Dove, Raven, Hooded Crow, Black Guillemot and Great Northern Diver.We visit nearby coastal sites too, for Common and Velvet Scoter, Long-tailed Duck and divers,and previous holidays have yielded Kumlien’s Gull, Green-winged Teal, American Wigeon, SurfScoter and King Eider. We may find Corn Bunting, flocks of grey geese and waders perhapsincluding Purple Sandpiper, and Golden Plover. Waxwing and Great Grey Shrike are often seen,with good numbers of seabirds, waders, geese and farmland birds, expect around seventyspecies on this varied day.

Total species for the holiday approx 120. Other wildlife should include Red Squirrel, Red Deer,Roe Deer, Grey Seal, Common Seal, Mountain Hare, and possibly Otter.

Five nights at Mountview Hotel. Two nights at a comfortable hotel inThurso

Combine with:SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSBirders Blast (p39), Highlands & the East Coast (p40).SCOTTISH ISLANDSMull & Islay (p54).

This winter holiday combines favoured birding areas with some new and exciting sites. Rarespecialities such as Black Grouse, Ptarmigan, Capercaillie and Crested Tit often show well,and we also explore rural and coastal Aberdeenshire, and the rich pinewoods, stunningrivers, and glens of Royal Deeside. We have excellent chances of finding our own raritiesand build a healthy birdlist from mountain to sea.

Top local targets include Capercaillie, Black Grouse, Crested Tit and Golden Eagle, with localDippers near nest sites, and Goosander and Goldeneye on the rivers. Local goose flocksoften contain migrant birds and we are vigilant for stray Bean, White-fronted, Snow or Ross'samongst the commoner Pink-feet and Greylags.In Aberdeenshire, we have time to explore, working a good selection of favoured harboursand bays, with journeys between the sites being through mixed open land favoured byfinches, waders and a farmland birds. This whole coastline is massively under-watched, withvery few resident birders. We have excellent chances of rarities, this being a good time forWhite-billed Diver, King Eider and rare gulls. Offshore we should find good numbers ofScoter, Divers and Auks, with the bonus of Purple Sandpiper and Turnstone. We return westthrough mixed farmland, birding near the River Dee and around the previous Winterwatchsite of Mar Lodge. With luck we may pick up Scottish or Common Crossbills, Goshawk,Golden Eagle and Red Grouse amid stunning scenery.We look for Ptarmigan and Snow Bunting, using telescopes to locate the birds before walkingcloser (late snow or heavy melt can make conditions difficult). Local waders should bereturning, 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 anextended day over on the west coast, where we look for White-tailed Eagle, Otter and Black-throated Diver. Total species approx. 120.

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

Combine with:SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSHighland Winter Birding (p40), Highlands and the West Coast (p41).

HIGHLAND WINTER BIRDINGSAT 15 FEBRUARY – SAT 22 FEBRUARY, SAT 22 FEBRUARY – SAT 29 FEBRUARY

PRICE: £1295ppNo single supplement. ‘Early Birder’ discounts may apply, contact us before booking! Full details and a Trip Report are on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 36.

HIGHLANDS and the EAST COASTSAT 29 FEBRUARY – SAT 7 MARCH

PRICE: £1295ppNo single supp. ‘Early Birder’ discounts may apply, contact us before booking! Full details and a Trip Report are on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 36.



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

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

We head west, working remote sealochs, bays and beaches as we go. Rugged WesterRoss offers iconic scenery, and we have excellent chances of Otter. There could begood numbers of Great Northern, Black-throated and Red-throated Diver, plusSlavonian Grebe, Common Scoter and Red-breasted Merganser, and passage wadersand gulls that often include Iceland and Glaucous.

Next day we target eagles, with Golden and White-tailed both likely. Mid-March isalso good for passage Merlin, with early Wheatears if winds are favourable. Wehave another chance for Otters, whilst scanning for rarer seaduck or divers. Thistime of year can also be a good for White-billed Diver on the under-watched westcoast and we will check Great Northern Divers carefully for their rarer cousins.

Our exclusive private estate woodlands offer chances of Capercaillie. Later wesearch for moorland specialities including Golden Eagle, Peregrine, Merlin and asspring develops, Wheatear. The day finishes with a moorland drive for Red Grouse.We seek Ptarmigan, Snow Bunting, Black-throated Diver, Red-throated Diver,Goldeneye and Peregrine, and birchwoods hold Lesser Redpoll and Siskin. LingeringWaxwing 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-tailedGodwit, Knot, Dunlin and Ringed Plover, many moulting into summer plumage.Watch out also for Corn Bunting, Tree Sparrow, Yellowhammer and Grey Partridge.We often see Bottle-nosed Dolphin, and with auks, Gannet, gulls and more, this isa rewarding day!

Total species for the holiday approx. 110. Mammals may include Otter, Commonand Grey Seals, Mountain and Brown Hare, Red Squirrel, Red and Roe Deer andperhaps Harbour Porpoise or Bottle-nosed Dolphin.

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

Combine with:SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSHighlands and the East Coast (p40), Highland Birding in March (p41).SCOTTISH ISLANDS Mull and Islay (p54).

An exciting holiday across the Highlands, designed to maximise our birding aswinter turns to spring. Speciality species include Capercaillie, Scottish Crossbill,Crested Tit, Black Grouse, Golden Eagle, White-tailed Eagle, Ptarmigan, and goodchances of three or even four diver species in breeding plumage at the coast.

Winter birds are still with us in good numbers, and one of the main advantagesof birding this far north is the opportunity to see many species, perhaps includingLong-tailed Duck, and Velvet and Common Scoter at close quarters or in shelteredharbours. We will also pay attention to rarities within reach, and this can be anexcellent time for ducks, geese and passerines to augment an already outstandingbirding experience.

Quality local birding includes Black Grouse at the lek, Crested Tit and ScottishCrossbill in local Caledonian pinewood, and during these weeks we have goodchances of Capercaillie. Other birds inland include Golden Eagle, Dipper, Buzzard,Goldeneye, Ptarmigan, Snow Bunting, Black-throated Diver, Red-throated Diver,Peregrine, Lesser Redpoll and Siskin. The first returning Osprey are possible, andbreeding wader species include Lapwing, Oystercatcher, Redshank, Curlew,Common Snipe and Golden Plover. There is the chance of lingering Waxwing andWhooper Swan too.

With all nights at Mountview Hotel, we have maximum flexibility to planaccording to weather, tides and rare bird reports. The outline itinerary allows threedays at the coast and three days in Strathspey, though if we are successful withkey targets locally we may change this to maximise our birdlist. A highlight will bea stunning visit to the west coast - we will pick the best day possible; there is

nowhere better on a nice spring day! This holiday really does take in some of ourmost stunning and iconic scenery, while enjoying superb birdlife as the seasonturns to spring.

Total species c. 120. Mammals may include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, GreySeal, Common Seal. Otter, Mountain Hare, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and HarbourPorpoise are possible.


Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSHighlands and the West Coast (p41), Spring into Scotland (p42).

HIGHLAND BIRDING in MARCHSAT 14 MARCH – SAT 21 MARCH, SAT 21 MARCH – SAT 28 MARCH

PRICE: £1295ppNo single supplement. ‘Early Birder’ discounts may apply, contact us before booking! Full details are on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 36.

HIGHLANDS and the WEST COASTSAT 7 MARCH – SAT 14 MARCH




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Perhaps the ultimate spring wildlife experience in Scotland! All our resident birds are displayingor breeding, winter birds are still here in good numbers, and summer visitors arrive daily. We alsoenjoy a two-night expedition to the magical isle of Mull, where the birding is fabulous andscenery unforgettable.

Close to our hotel we visit exclusive private estate woodlands, and staying inside our roomyminibus, have reasonable chances of seeing Capercaillie. Moorland specialities include GoldenEagle, Peregrine, Merlin and as spring develops, Wheatear, Ring Ouzel and roadside Red Grouse andBlack-throated Diver.

Mull is a ‘must see’ place, and this holiday includes a thorough exploration. As we travel, BlackGrouse, Greenshank, Hooded Crow and Common Seal are possible. On arrival, we target White-tailed and Golden Eagle, may see Short-eared Owl and Raven, and off the rugged shore usually findOtter. We have a full day to enjoy the island, with Hen Harrier, Redpoll, breeding Golden Plover,Slavonian Grebe, Twite, Black Guillemot and Stonechat all more than possible.

Later we look for Ptarmigan, Snow Bunting, Red-throated Diver, Goldeneye, Peregrine, Crested Titand Scottish Crossbill. Local birchwoods hold Lesser Redpoll and Siskin flocks, and Osprey,Slavonian Grebe, Whooper Swan and waders combine for the best of local birding. Waxwing aresometimes present, and our guides work hard so we don’t miss any rarities.

Coastal birding is particularly enjoyable, newly arriving migrants complementing remaining wintervisitors. Sightings can include Osprey fishing, rafts of Common Eider, Goosander, Red-breastedMerganser, 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-tailedGodwit, Knot, Dunlin and Ringed Plover. We often see Bottle-nosed Dolphin, and with auks, up tofour species of tern, Gannet, gulls, Corn Bunting, Tree Sparrow, Yellowhammer, Grey Partridge andmore, this is a really rewarding day.

Total species for the holiday approx. 120 - 125. Other wildlife should include Red Squirrel, RedDeer, Roe Deer, Grey Seal, Common Seal, Mountain Hare and Otter. Bottle-nosed Dolphin andHarbour Porpoise are possible.

Five nights at Mountview Hotel. Two nights at a comfortablehotel on Mull.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSHighland Birding in March (p41), Highlands and Skye(p42).

An adventure including two nights on Skye, a rewarding time to be on this most popular ofScottish islands before the busy tourist season. Birds are settling down to breed and as migrantspass too through we enjoy eagles, seabirds, waders, Otter and spectacular scenery. A cost-effective way of including Skye in your Highland birding holiday!

Our award-winning hotel is close to a very active Black Grouse lek, which we visit on our firstmorning. A local walk takes us to Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbill. In quiet moorland we seekBlack and Red-throated Diver and Red Grouse, Dipper, Buzzard, Goldeneye, Osprey, Peregrine, RingOuzel, Slavonian Grebe and waders including Golden Plover. Our private estate may be visited inour mobile minibus hides to see Capercaillie, a responsible way to search for the wonderful ‘Horseof the Forest’.

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

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 yearproduces a high birdlist, with large numbers of wintering birds overlapping with those arriving tobreed.

Total species for the holiday 120 - 130. Other wildlife should include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, RoeDeer, Grey Seal, Common Seal and Mountain Hare. Bottle-nosed Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise arepossible.

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

Combine with:SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Spring into Scotlandinc Mull (p42), Birding the Highlands in May (p43).SCOTTISH ISLANDS North Ron & Orkney inSpring for birders (p54), Outer Hebrides in Spring(p55).

SPRING INTO SCOTLAND including MULLSAT 28 MARCH – SAT 4 APRIL, SAT 4 APRIL – SAT 11 APRIL, SAT 11 APRIL – SAT 18 APRIL

PRICE: £1395ppNo single supp. ‘Early Birder’ discounts may apply, contact us before booking! Fulldetails and a Trip Report are on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 36.

HIGHLANDS and SKYESAT 18 APRIL – SAT 25 APRIL, SAT 25 APRIL – SAT 2 MAY




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Ideal for the seasoned expert or first time visitor alike, this holiday features most of ourbirdlife, with all spring migrants back and the last few wintering birds still with us. Includesan exciting birding boat trip!

Local Black Grouse are popping and cooing at the lek, followed by a walk for Crested Tit andScottish Crossbill. We stay locally for Osprey, Dipper, Buzzard, Goldeneye, Red Grouse, Black-throated Diver, Lesser Redpoll, Peregrine and Slavonian Grebe. In our private estate we seekCapercaillie, and in secluded locations Golden Eagle, Peregrine, Merlin and Ring Ouzel. Aperfect start with many key birds on our first day!

An exciting boat trip below Troup Head is sure to be a highlight, visiting one of the largestseabird colonies of the British Isles and mainland Scotland’s only Gannetry. We seek Puffin,Kittiwake, Fulmar, Guillemot, Razorbill and ‘real’ Rock Dove, with a chance of passage skuas,gulls, terns and even White-billed Diver if very lucky! On the Cairngorm plateau, Ptarmiganhave paired up and Dotterel are arriving, the latter often giving exceptional views in earlyMay. Look out for Snow Bunting too. Great birding in a very special habitat.

The rugged West Coast holds both White-tailed and Golden Eagle. Other birds may includeHooded Crow, Twite, Great Northern and Black-throated Diver and Black Guillemot. On theBlack Isle, Red Kite, Tree Sparrow, Wigeon and Teal may be joined by migrating Bar and Black-tailed Godwit, Ringed Plover, Dunlin, Knot and Sanderling with perhaps lingering Iceland andGlaucous Gull or an unexpected rarity!

The Moray coast holds Osprey fishing, rafts of Common Eider, Goosander, Red-breastedMerganser and perhaps late departing Long-tailed Duck or Common and Velvet Scoter.Sandwich, Common, Arctic and Little Tern are joined by auks, divers, and spring waders,including Purple Sandpiper, Turnstone, Bar-tailed Godwit and Knot moulting into summer-plumage. Farmland specialities on this fertile coastline include Corn Bunting, Yellowhammerand Grey Partridge - a really rewarding day!

Total species for the holiday 120 - 130. Mammals should include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, RoeDeer, Grey Seal, Common Seal and Mountain Hare. Bottle-nosed Dolphin and HarbourPorpoise are possible.


Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSHighlands and Skye (p42), Highlands and Corncrake (p43).SCOTTISH ISLANDS North Ron & Orkney in Spring for birders (p54), OuterHebrides in Spring (p55) Shetland in Spring for birders(p55), NEW! Birding the North Coast 500 (p56), Orkney & Flow Country (p57), Shetland Island Explorer (p57).

A unique holiday, offering the chance to enjoy all the speciality birds of the Highlands ANDCorncrake, on the same one-week holiday. All these are very possible; Capercaillie, BlackGrouse, Red Grouse, Ptarmigan, Dotterel, Corncrake, White-tailed Eagle, Golden Eagle, HenHarrier, Short-eared Owl, Peregrine, Black Guillemot, Puffin, Gannet, Manx Shearwater,Great Skua, Arctic Skua, Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Osprey, Ring Ouzel, Dipper, Buzzard,Goldeneye, Black-throated Diver, Red-throated Diver, Slavonian Grebe, Lesser Redpoll,Hooded Crow, Corn Bunting and Snow Bunting …. A tremendous array of Scottish birdlife!

Each year Heatherlea watch Corncrake on the Outer Hebrides from early May, so by thesedates we know where the birds have been showing, with excellent chances to see thembefore the vegetation grows too high and obscures the view. On this brief visit Corncrake areour principal target, though with a full day to explore, both White-tailed and Golden Eaglecan be expected in reasonable weather. Hen Harrier and Short-eared Owl are frequentlyseen, and on our ferry crossings we can expect any of the four skuas plus auks includingPuffin and Black Guillemot, Gannet, Manx Shearwater, Shag, Fulmar and Kittiwake. Wadersin bright breeding plumage, and birds of the ‘machair’ including perhaps Corn Bunting will addto a memorable experience.

Back home in Strathspey, all the specialities are settled and breeding, and we search with carefor Capercaillie, Black Grouse, Red Grouse, Ptarmigan, Dotterel, Snow Bunting, Crested Tit,Scottish Crossbill, Osprey, Ring Ouzel, Dipper, Goldeneye, Black-throated Diver, Red-throatedDiver, Slavonian Grebe, and many more. We visit a variety of habitats from the Caledonianpinewoods adjacent to Mountview Hotel, open moorland, lochs, rivers and fields ofStrathspey and neighbouring areas which hold these special birds. We will spend most of oneday on the Cairngorm plateau targeting key species and another birding the Moray Coastwhere farmland birds and perhaps a rarity may feature!

Total species c. 120. Mammals may include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Grey Seal,Common Seal. Otter, Mountain Hare, Minke Whale, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and HarbourPorpoise are possible.

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

BIRDING THE HIGHLANDS in MAYSAT 2 MAY – SAT 9 MAY, SAT 9 MAY – SAT 16 MAY

PRICE: £1395ppNo single supplement. ‘Early Birder’ discounts may apply, contact us beforebooking! Full details and a Trip Report are on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 36.

HIGHLANDS and CORNCRAKESAT 16 MAY – SAT 23 MAY, SAT 23 MAY – SAT 30 MAY

PRICE: £1495ppNo single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 36.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Birding the Highlands in May (p43), High Season acrossthe Highlands (p44). SCOTTISH ISLANDSOuter Hebrides in Spring (p55), Shetland in Spring forbirders (p55), Mull, Iona & Treshnish Isles (p56), NEW!Birding the North Coast 500 (p56), Shetland IslandExplorer (p57), Orkney & Flow Country (p57), Islands onthe Edge (p58), Orkney Island Explorer (p58) andSouthern Hebrides (p59).



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A tremendous two-centre holiday for all the species thatmake Scotland so special. We visit many habitats including theseabird colony of Handa Island. It really is time to enjoy HighSeason ACROSS the Highlands!

In the Abernethy 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 TreePipit, 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 GreatNorthern and Red-throated Diver too, every minute is absorbing. We stay overnight on the west, givingmaximum time on Handa, and a second day to explore the under-watched north-west coast. Your guideschoose the best locations in the freedom of the most stunning landscape in Scotland. Black-throated Diverare on remote lochs, Twite, Wheatear and Whinchat on the moorland and Golden and White-tailed Eaglessoar over imposing crags.

In June, hen Capercaillie are more likely than cock birds. 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 forPtarmigan and Dotterel, and our record in May and June is very good. We also look for breeding Snow Bunting.

At the coast Osprey fishing, Common Eider, Goosander, Red-breasted Merganser, Stonechat, Red-throatedDiver, Corn Bunting, Yellowhammer, occasional summering Common Scoter, Sandwich, Common, Arctic andLittle Tern can be found. We also seek rarities within reach, perhaps a rare wader at this time. A fitting finaleto a great week’s birding!

Total species c. 120. 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 Mountview Hotel. One night at a comfortable hotel on the west.

As Scottish summer gets into full swing we visit Orkney, where special breeding birdsinclude Hen Harrier, Short-eared Owl, Red-throated Diver and Twite. With auks, skuas,terns and gulls, our three-day journey is full of excitement amid stunning coastal scenery.We also search the Caledonian pinewoods and rugged glens to find many special birds.

We begin locally, looking for Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbill in the forests. Your listmay include Osprey, Dipper, Buzzard, Goldeneye, Red Grouse, Black-throated Diver, LesserRedpoll, Peregrine, breeding waders and Slavonian Grebe. The beauty of divers and grebesin breeding plumage spellbinds many of our guests, and we often admire at close quarters.

We enjoy two nights on Orkney giving us a real flavour of this fertile archipelago. We visittiny fishing villages where a late staying Iceland Gull or breeding Black Guillemot ispossible. Hen Harrier and Short-eared Owl breed, and we often enjoy great views of bothquartering rough grasslands and heaths. With the sound of Skylark and Meadow Pipit allaround, we may add hunting Merlin to our lists too. We have a full day to visit the stunningseabird colony of Marwick Head, as well as birding numerous bays where we often findsummer-plumaged Sanderling and Turnstone and a late Great Northern Diver. Althougha birding trip, there is the option to visit World Heritage sites such as ‘Ring of Brodgar’ and‘Stones of Stenness’. Ferry crossings should yield Great and Arctic Skua among the seabirdsand in recent years we have seen Orca, Minke Whale, dolphins and Otter, so don’t miss aminute!

Capercaillie! We visit exclusive private estate woodlands where in June hen birds are morelikely. Later we seek Golden Eagle, Peregrine and Ring Ouzel to complete a lovely day. Atcoastal haunts, expect Osprey, Eider, Goosander, Red-breasted Merganser, Stonechat, Red-throated Diver, Corn Bunting, Yellowhammer and Grey Partridge, plus any rarities withinreach. NB, we don’t visit the Cairngorm plateau during this itinerary.

Total species approx. 110. Other wildlife should include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer,Grey Seal, Common Seal and Otter. Mountain Hare, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and HarbourPorpoise are possible.

Five nights at Mountview Hotel. Twonights at a comfortable hotel onOrkney.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSHigh Season across the Highlands (p44), The Outer Limits inSummer (p45). SCOTTISH ISLANDSOrkney Island Explorer (p58), Southern Hebrides (p59),Shetland & Orkney (p59).

HIGHLANDS and ORKNEYSAT 6 JUNE – SAT 13 JUNE

PRICE: £1395ppNo single supplement. Further details and a Trip Report are on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 36.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSHighlands and Corncrake (p43), Highlandsand Orkney (p44). SCOTTISH ISLANDSShetland Island Explorer (p57), Islands onthe Edge (p58).

HIGH SEASON ACROSS THE HIGHLANDSSAT 30 MAY – SAT 6 JUNE

PRICE: £1395ppNo single supplement. Full details and a Trip Report are on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 36.



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

During our time at the Mountview Hotel, we comb all the special habitats, includingtranquil pinewoods and the vast Cairngorm mountain plateau. Target birds includeCrested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Osprey, Dipper, Buzzard, Goldeneye, Red Grouse, Black-throated Diver, Lesser Redpoll, Peregrine, breeding waders and Slavonian Grebe. Ourexclusive private estate woodlands often produce hen Capercaillie in June, and we useour minibus as a hide as we drive slowly along the forest tracks. We spend a full dayon the Cairngorm plateau for Ptarmigan and Dotterel, and at the inner Moray Firthseek fishing Osprey, Eider, Goosander, Red-breasted Merganser, Red-throated Diver,Yellowhammer, Sandwich, Common, Arctic and Little Tern, Gannet, Guillemot andRazorbill, and waders may include Turnstone, Bar-tailed Godwit and Red Knot inbreeding plumage.

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

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 Mountview Hotel. Two nights at a comfortable hotel on the OuterHebrides.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSHighlands and Orkney (p44), NEW! Highlands & the Isle of May(p45), Highland Wildlife (p46).SCOTTISH ISLANDSIslands on the Edge (p58), Outer Hebrides and the Shiants(p60).

On this two-centre holiday we offer some of the best birding available in theHighlands, including our first visit to the iconic Isle of May. Just over one milein length, the island is located in the outer Firth of Forth, about five miles offthe coast of Fife, and is owned and managed by Scottish Natural Heritage asa National Nature Reserve. We visit at the height of the breeding season,when the Isle of May can host around 200,000 seabirds, including Puffin,Kittiwake, Guillemot, Razorbill, Shag, Fulmar, Eider, Oystercatcher, plusseveral gull and tern species. We plan to spend time on the island, workingclosely with the Observatory team to search out other wildlife including latemigrants. Seabirds will feature highly; the Isle of May is famed for its Puffinsand other nesting species and we enjoy birding from both land and sea.

On our three-day adventure south to Fife we will also explore coastalhotspots for waders and farmland birds, enjoy summering Common and VelvetScoter, with Little Gull and rarities including Roseate Tern also possible.

In the Highlands, summer months are a good time to see many specialityspecies perhaps including female Capercaillie, and we drive forest tracks tosearch for them responsibly. Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill and visitingmigrants breed in the woods and we will look for scarce Black-throated Diverand Slavonian Grebe on local Lochs, and Golden and White-tailed Eagle,Osprey and Peregrine in the hills. We also plan to spend a day on theCairngorm mountain, exploring the plateau for Ptarmigan, Dotterel and SnowBunting.

Five nights at Mountview Hotel. Two nights at a comfortable hotel in Fife.

THE OUTER LIMITS in SUMMER SAT 13 JUNE – SAT 20 JUNE, SAT 20 JUNE – SAT 27 JUNE


Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Outer Limits in Summer (p45), Eagles, Divers & Dotterel (p46).SCOTTISH ISLANDSInner Hebrides (p60), Ultimate Outer Hebrides (p61).

NEW! HIGHLANDS and the ISLE of MAYSAT 27 JUNE – SAT 4 JULY

PRICE: £1495ppNo single supplement. Full holiday details are available on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 36.



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Where do you go in the ‘quiet’ birding weeks of summer? The best birding in Britainawaits in Scotland, where we take you from magnificent mountain-top to the scenicgrandeur of Mull! We watch Golden Eagle, White-tailed Eagle, Peregrine, 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 mayhold Ring Ouzel, Stonechat and Wheatear, plus upland specialities including Red-throated Diver, LesserRedpoll, Red Grouse, Slavonian Grebe, Stonechat, Common Sandpiper and Osprey plus both Brown andMountain 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 otherraptors including Hen Harrier, Peregrine, Merlin and Short-eared Owl. We aim to find Otter and usuallypick up a selection of warblers and chats, with good chances of Twite. As we travel the coast, watch outfor Black Guillemot, Common Seal and Hooded Crow. A great adventure!

Private woodlands may produce hen Capercaillie, and we stay in our minibus for undisturbed views. Yourraptor list should be impressive, perhaps between eight and twelve species by the end of the week.

If weather allows, we head up the hill for Ptarmigan and particularly Dotterel, both perhaps with pipingyoung running behind. We also visit Troup Head, to see breeding Gannet at close quarters. Amongst theGuillemot, Razorbill and Kittiwake will be a few breeding Puffin, and the occasional passing Great orArctic Skua and Corn Bunting, Yellowhammer, Tree Sparrow and Rock Pipit are also present. We alsoround-up any rarities within reach on this coastline, perhaps a scarce wader or gull featuring at this time.

Total species approx. 110. 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 arepossible.

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

EAGLES, DIVERS and DOTTEREL including MullSAT 4 JULY – SAT 11 JULY, SAT 11 JULY – SAT 18 JULY


An absorbing round-up of the birds, mammals, insects and flora of our National Park,from alpines, Ptarmigan and Dotterel on Cairngorm to the summer plants andbirdlife of the Moray Coast. We also visit key sites outside the Park for raredragonflies, butterflies and flora.

In our grounds you may see Moonwort, Northern Marsh Orchid, Creeping Ladies’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 Capercaillie, ScottishCrossbill and Crested Tit, and see Twinflower, Serrated and Common Wintergreen, Field Gentian and orchids includingFragrant, Coralroot, Greater and Lesser Butterfly. At the coast we search for orchids and wintergreens plus Scots Lovageand Oysterplant. Insects include Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary, Northern Brown Argus, Dark Green Fritillary, CommonHawker, 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 MossCampion, Trailing Azalea, Dwarf Cornel, Alpine Ladies’ Mantle, Alpine Saw-wort, Lesser Twayblade, Scottish Asphodel,Alpine and Interrupted Clubmoss and Climax forest of Least Willow, with a chance of Black Mountain Moth.

We visit Troup Head by boat to see mainland Scotland's only mainland Gannetry, and breeding Guillemot, Razorbill,Puffin, Black Guillemot, Kittiwake, Shag, Fulmar, and occasional marauding Great Skua or flashing Peregrine. MinkeWhale, 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 andRed Grouse. Orchids include Frog and Small White, plus Grass of Parnassus, Starry Saxifrage, Sundew, Butterwort,Intermediate Wintergreen, Water Lobelia and Stagshorn 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.

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

Total birds for the holiday c. 100, plus a vast range of mammals, insects and plantlife!


Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSOuter Limits in Summer (p45), Eagles, Divers and Dotterel (p46).SCOTTISH ISLANDSInner Hebrides from Canna to Iona(p60), Ultimate Outer Hebrides(p61).

HIGHLAND WILDLIFE Natural History of Northern ScotlandBirds, mammals, insects and plants – ideal for the all-round enthusiast!

SAT 27 JUNE – SAT 4 JULY


Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSNEW! Highlands & the Isle of May (p45),Highland Wildlife (p46), Highlands & WesterRoss (p47). SCOTTISH ISLANDSOuter Hebrides and the Shiants (p60), Coll & Tiree in Summer (p62), Orkney in HighSummer (p63).



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An exceptional holiday, combining birding with three days exploring remote placeson the rugged west coast. We take our time in picture-postcard villages includingApplecross, Shieldaig, Pennan and Crovie, giving a different flavour of wildlife andculture on an easy-paced birding tour.

We enjoy two nights on the west, watching for Golden and White-tailed Eagle, andperhaps a fleeting Merlin. Black-throated Diver are gathering in sheltered bays,Kittiwake and auks are on the water, a Great Skua may be following terns, and wescout for Otter. Near Applecross we hope to find Ptarmigan, enjoying magnificentviews across to Skye, and even the Outer Hebrides on a clear day. We tour toShieldaig, and other beautiful locations and return via Torridon to Nethy Bridge.

Purple heather moors, deep greens in the ancient pinewoods and long days make thisa lovely time in the Scottish Highlands. You should see Red Deer stags at their verybest before the approaching rut, and we seek Slavonian Grebe, Red-throated Diver,Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbill while hen Capercaillie may show in our privateestate. 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. RedKite and Tree Sparrow are found at favoured sites, and we may see Bottle-nosedDolphin on the turning tide. On the east coast, Gannets are probably the mostpopulous bird on the cliffs, which may also hold a few Razorbill, Guillemot, Fulmar,Kittiwake, Shag, Corn Bunting and Rock Pipit. We may see Short-eared Owl feedinglarge chicks on the open moorland, find Black Grouse beginning to return to theirlek, Red Grouse in families with large chicks or a passing Hen Harrier - there are manypossibilities!

Total species approx 110. Mammals may include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer,Grey Seal, Common Seal. Otter, Mountain Hare, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and HarbourPorpoise are possible.

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

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSEagles, Divers & Dotterel (p46), Highlands and the Bass Rock(p47). SCOTTISH ISLANDSSt Kilda & the Hebrides (p61), Coll & Tiree in Summer (p62).

HIGHLANDS and WESTER ROSSSAT 18 JULY – SAT 25 JULY


On this two-centre holiday we visit tranquil Caledonian pinewoods and the vastCairngorm mountain plateau, enjoying glorious scenery, long evenings and some ofthe best summer birding in Britain. We also include two nights in Lothian and takea memorable boat trip to the Bass Rock, home of the largest ‘single rock’ Gannetcolony in the world, holding over 150,000 individuals.

We watch locally for Golden Eagle, Slavonian Grebe, Red and Black-throated Divers,Peregrine, Scottish Crossbill, Crested Tit and more including Red Grouse, Ring Ouzel,Dipper, Buzzard and Goldeneye. In early July our private estate woodlands oftenproduce hen Capercaillie, seen safely from Heatherlea mobile hides. BreedingPtarmigan and Dotterel should give us a great day on the mountains, and we alsoutilise the evening light to seek out quartering Short-eared Owl over local heathermoorland and look out for waders including Dunlin, Redshank and CommonSandpiper in smart summer plumage.

Our visit to Lothian begins with a drive south through Perthshire, where we may visitLoch of the Lowes or other sites of interest to view nesting Osprey. We take amemorable private chartered boat visit to The Bass Rock, famous as the home of thelargest Gannet colony in the world. Landing under strictly controlled access, weshould have plenty of time to walk to the chapel, about halfway up, to observe andphotograph Gannets to our hearts' content. We also visit Musselburgh, wherebreeding terns and the first early autumn migrants can be expected on return passageand take our time on the return journey to Nethy Bridge for the best available birding.

A great new itinerary, with very limited availability. Numbers are restricted as we can only take seven clients on any one charter, so please book early to avoiddisappointment.

Total species c.120. Mammals may include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Grey Seal,Common Seal. Otter, Mountain Hare, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and Harbour Porpoiseare possible.

Five nights at Mountview Hotel. Two nights at a comfortable hotel in Lothian.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSHighlands & Wester Ross (p47), Highlands & Outer Hebrides (p48). SCOTTISH ISLANDS Orkney in High Summer (p63).

HIGHLANDS and BASS ROCKSAT 25 JULY – SAT 1 AUGUST

PRICE: £1495ppNo single supplement. ‘Early Birder’ discounts may apply, contact usbefore booking! Full details and a Trip Report are on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 36.



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

In our private estate, hen Capercaillie may be taking berries and nearby we look forCrested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Siskin, Tree Pipit, Redstart, Spotted Flycatcher andLesser Redpoll. On the Cairngorms, Ptarmigan are skulking in the corries and weexplore the moorlands, with Golden Eagle, Raven, Slavonian Grebe, Red Grouse andperhaps Short-eared Owl and Black-throated Diver to entertain.

We head west to our ferry, and as we cross The Minch watching for passage seabirds,including petrels, skuas and shearwaters, perhaps with a Sabine's Gull, GreatShearwater or Basking Shark to cap an exciting voyage. On arrival we have a full dayto enjoy the delights of the Outer Hebrides in High Summer. Large numbers ofmigratory waders can be found on the machair, beaches and mudflats, divers feedoffshore and good numbers of Twite, Linnet and hopefully Corn Bunting in the arableareas. We have good chances of Hen Harrier, Merlin and Short-eared Owl, and allshould have fledged young on the wing. Corncrake and Red-necked Phalarope arepresent 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 wehave even been lucky to see Snowy Owl on this trip in the past! We make the mostof the long summer day with extended time in the field, returning via Skye to targetany species outstanding plus Golden and White-tailed Eagle once more.

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

Total species approx. 110. 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 Mountview Hotel. Two nights on the Outer Hebrides

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSShort Break in Early Autumn (p39), Highlands and the BassRock (p47), NEW! Autumn in the Highlands with ‘EasyWalking’ (p48).

Would you like to see all the special birds of Scotland, but without too muchexertion? On this new ‘Easy Walking’ itinerary, we look for all the Scottishspecials including Ptarmigan, perhaps the most inaccessible of our native birds.We explore the dramatic west coast, search for southbound migrants and enjoya fantastic seabird trip to the Outer Hebrides, on a tour which involves very littlewalking, and on some days hardly any walking at all. We are based entirely at theMountview Hotel, giving us flexibility to choose the best day for each of ouractivities.

You can enjoy all the great birding the Scottish Highlands has to offer, visitingmany special places by comfortable minibus and getting close to the best birdingsites. As well as Ptarmigan, we seek Highland specialities including Capercaillie,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 numbersand diversity are high, with local breeders joined by migrants originating fromScandinavia as they begin to flood south towards warmer climes. We visit a rangeof superb coastal sites to search for birds within some of the most attractiveregions of Scotland while our boat trip should give us exciting encounters withseabirds including Gannet, Sooty and Manx Shearwater, Storm Petrel, any of fourskuas, 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 MinkeWhale all possible at this time of year.


combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSShort Breaks in Early Autumn (p39), Highlands & Outer Hebrides(p48), Twenty Scottish Specials (p49).SCOTTISH ISLANDS North Ron & Orkney in early Autumn for birders (p63), OuterHebrides in early Autumn for birders (p64).

HIGHLANDS and the OUTER HEBRIDESSAT 1 AUGUST – SAT 8 AUGUST, SAT 8 AUGUST – SAT 15 AUGUST


NEW! AUTUMN IN THE HIGHLANDS with EASY WALKINGSAT 15 AUGUST – SAT 22 AUGUST, SAT 22 AUGUST – SAT 29 AUGUST.

PRICE: £1295ppNo single supplement. ‘Early Birder’ discounts may apply, contact us before booking! Full details are on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 36.



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Autumn migration is in full swing, and our target birds are at their highest numbers with allyoungsters fledged. We seek an ambitious list of raptors: White-tailed Eagle, Golden Eagle,Buzzard, Osprey, Red Kite, Hen Harrier, Peregrine, Sparrowhawk and Kestrel with chances ofMerlin, Goshawk and Short-eared Owl. We stay overnight on Magical Mull, a superb placeto gain close views in stunning scenery! Our grouse targets are Capercaillie, Ptarmigan, BlackGrouse and Red Grouse, the four naturally occurring species in the British Isles. TheHighlands of Scotland is the only place to see them all!

We seek Capercaillie in remote woodlands, with several options if we aren’t in luck first time.Ptarmigan will be in high corries of the Cairngorms and this is the time of peak numbers sowe stand a good chance. Red Grouse are found commonly on the moors around our Hotelin Nethy Bridge, while rarer Black Grouse are active locally. Other specialities inland includeCrested Tit and Scottish Crossbill while other birds likely on our Mull adventure include BlackGrouse, 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, asnewly arriving winter migrants complement remaining summer visitors. Birds may includeOsprey fishing, rafts of Common Eider, Goosander, Red-breasted Merganser, Stonechat,returning Common and Velvet Scoter, Black and Red-throated Diver, autumn waders includingTurnstone, Bar-tailed Godwit, Knot, Dunlin and Ringed Plover. We search for any rarities withinreach 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 andTree Sparrow, and Merlin visit, perching on bales and fenceposts waiting for flocks of MeadowPipits and other passerines.

Total species c. 120. Mammals may include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Grey Seal,Common Seal. Otter, Mountain Hare, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise arepossible.

RAPTORS & GROUSESAT 5 SEPTEMBER – SAT 12 SEPTEMBER, SAT 12 SEPTEMBER – SAT 19 SEPTEMBER

PRICE: £1395ppNo single supplement. ‘Early Birder’ discounts may apply, contact us beforebooking! Full details and a Trip Report are on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 36.

This holiday is designed for those who would like a holiday in Scotland to see northernspeciality birds, and we target '20 Scottish Specials' to give the holiday a fun focus.Ideal whether you keep a UK birdlist or not, on this holiday we concentrate on roundingup as many key birds as possible, at a relaxed pace on days which are also great fun..

Key targets;

... and perhaps a few mammals too, including Otter, Bottle-nosed Dolphin, Brown Hare,Mountain Hare, Red Squirrel, Grey Seal, Common Seal, Red Deer and Roe Deer.

Early September is a great time to visit the Highlands; all of our Scottish specials havefledged chicks, so bird numbers are at their peak and with dependent young it also meansthey can be easier to find than in the middle of summer. We also have the excitementof migration, with waders and wildfowl numbers building, with chances of rarities beingfound too. We visit the West Coast, to find Red and Black-throated Diver, BlackGuillemot, Hooded Crow and White-tailed Eagle, amid stunning late summer scenery. Wealso have two days around more local coastlines, visiting the Black Isle or Moray Coastto give us the best chances of skuas chasing the soon to depart terns and Kittiwakes,and also to see Ospreys fishing before they head back to Africa for the winter. The richarable farmland here is good for Tree Sparrow, and with luck we should find Corn Bunting,Stock Dove, Yellowhammer and Grey Partridge too. Around the Cairngorms we workhard to find all four UK grouse species, as well as pinewood specialities such as CrestedTit and Scottish Crossbill, with good chances of Golden and White-tailed Eagles over thecrags, and the possibility of a roaming Hen Harrier over the moorland.


combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSNEW! Autumn in the Highlands with Easy Walking (p48),Raptors & Grouse (p49).SCOTTISH ISLANDSNorth Ron & Orkney in early Autumn for birders (p63).

1. Golden Eagle 2. White-tailed Eagle 3. Capercaillie 4. Black Grouse5. Red Grouse 6. Ptarmigan 7. Crested Tit

8. Scottish Crossbill 9. Dipper 10. Peregrine 11. Black Guillemot 12. Hooded Crow 13. Raven 14. Black-throated Diver

15. Red-throated Diver 16. Osprey17. Great Skua 18. Arctic Skua 19. Tree Sparrow 20. Hen Harrier

TWENTY SCOTTISH SPECIALS in AUTUMNSAT 29 AUGUST – SAT 5 SEPTEMBER


Six nights at Mountview Hotel. One night on Mull

combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS20 Scottish Specials (p49), The Outer LimitsAdventure (p50).SCOTTISH ISLANDSNorth Ron & Orkney in Autumn for birders (p63), Outer Hebrides in early Autumn for birders (p64),Shetland in Autumn for birders (p64).



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

We begin with Capercaillie and Blackcock, in private estate woodlands or otherfavoured spots depending on where birds are showing. A walk in the nearbyAbernethy Forest may produce Crested Tit and Scottish Crossbill, and moorlandspecialities include Peregrine, Red Grouse, Merlin and Hen Harrier, with Goosanderand Dipper on the rivers.

After breakfast we work slowly west via mountainous Torridon with its longsealochs and quaint villages, favoured coastlines for Otters, waders and wildfowl.In autumn on Skye, magical low light and changing weather give us picture-postcard views around every turn, with concentrations of Golden and White-tailed Eagles, and good chances of Hen Harrier and Merlin. Divers will be returningto the coastline, with good numbers of Great Northern in particular and a widerange of birdlife includes Black Guillemot and Twite.

In the hills we concentrate on Ptarmigan, and rarely fail to find the birds. Localbirding gives excellent chances of Siskin, Lesser Redpoll, Bullfinch and woodlandspecies, already in winter flocks. Nearby fields often hold freshly arrived Redwingand Fieldfare, and flocks of finches and buntings that may contain Brambling.Autumn along the Moray Coast can be stunning. Rafts of seaduck include Velvetand Common Scoter, Long-tailed Duck, Eider and Red-breasted Merganser. Wesearch 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 shouldinclude Purple Sandpiper, Turnstone, Bar-tailed Godwit, Knot, Dunlin and RingedPlover. With luck farmland will be busy, with chances of Grey Partridge, CornBunting and perhaps Whooper Swans. A marvellous feast of autumn birding!

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

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSThe Outer Limits Adventure (p50), Highland Autumn Birding (p51).SCOTTISH ISLANDSShetland in Autumn for birders (p64), Unexplored Orkney (p65),Outer Hebrides in Autumn for birders (p65), Coll and Tiree inAutumn for birders (p66), Islay and Jura (p66).

HIGHLANDS AND SKYE in AUTUMNSAT 3 OCTOBER – SAT 10 OCTOBER, SAT 10 OCTOBER – SAT 17 OCTOBER

PRICE: £1395ppNo single supplement. ‘Early Birder’ discounts may apply, contact usbefore booking! Full details and a Trip Report are on our website. Please read FIELD NOTES on page 36.

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

In the Caledonian pinewoods there are good numbers of Crested Tit with roaming ScottishCrossbill also in small flocks. Golden Eagle, Peregrine, Buzzard, Sparrowhawk and Kestrel arein 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 andguests as one of the highlights of the Heatherlea year. We scan for Manx Shearwater, Greatand 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 allpossible too. On Harris we may see eagles whilst checking sheltered bays for seaduck mayreveal rare Surf Scoter, King Eider, three diver species and Slavonian Grebe. On Lewis wevisit headlands for seabirds, waders, Twite and migrant passerines, walk the woods forHebridean 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 Buntingpossible. 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 our private estate woodlandshold Capercaillie. We also visit the Moray Firth to search the concentrations of seabirds thatmake this coast such a magnet for birders. Common and Velvet Scoter, Long-tailed Duck andRed-throated Divers are all possible, as are many waders in autumn. Ptarmigan are our targeton the mountain day and Snow Bunting may be seen.

Total species approx. 115. Other wildlife should include Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Roe Deer,Mountain Hare and other sea life.

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

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSRaptors & Grouse (p49), Highlands & Skye in Autumn (p50).SCOTTISH ISLANDSNorth Ron & Orkney in Autumn for birders (p63), Shetland in Autumn for birders (p64), Outer Hebrides inAutumn for birders (p65), Unexplored Orkney (p65).

THE ‘OUTER LIMITS’ ADVENTURE SAT 12 SEPTEMBER – SAT 19 SEPTEMBER, SAT 19 SEPTEMBER – SAT 26SEPTEMBER, SAT 26 SEPTEMBER – SAT 3 OCTOBER




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A comprehensive itinerary, combining our best local autumn birding with anexciting three-day adventure to remotest Aberdeenshire, one of the best yetmost under-watched birding parts of the UK!

Capercaillie and Blackcock are targets in exclusive private estate woodlands orother favoured spots. A walk in the nearby Abernethy Forest for Crested Tit andScottish Crossbill is followed by a search for moorland specialities includingPeregrine, Red Grouse, Merlin, Hen Harrier and Golden Eagle. Mountain Hare,Raven, and White-tailed Eagle are also 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 ofCommon and Velvet Scoter are possible, with good chances of rarer Surf Scoter,or perhaps even Black or White-winged Scoter and King Eider regularly frequentthe River Ythan. More usual are Great Northern and Red-throated Diver andseabirds, sometimes being chased by a late Pomarine or Great Skua. Wadersinclude Purple Sandpiper, Turnstone, Bar-tailed Godwit, Knot, Dunlin and RingedPlover and just about anything can turn up. Passerines originating in Scandinaviacan arrive en masse in east winds and in favourable conditions we may spendtime in coastal scrub searching for them.

We work the under-watched Loch of Strathbeg carefully. Often there is a biggerautumn birdlist here than at Titchwell or Minsmere! Scarce wildfowl are regular,and we spend time looking through ducks in particular. In arable farmland wehope to find Grey Partridge, Corn Bunting, Stock Dove and Tree Sparrow, and inbusy harbours we may find Iceland and Glaucous Gull. Royal Deeside, famous forBalmoral Castle, is good for crossbills, Goshawk and Golden Eagle, and moors arepacked with Red Grouse and a few Mountain Hare. On the high hills we search forPtarmigan, and rarely fail to find them while Snow Bunting are possible too,especially when the very tops are snow covered. Our last day is flexible so wehave the opportunity to catch up on outstanding species missed or target anyexciting rarities within reach.

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

HIGHLAND AUTUMN BIRDINGSAT 17 OCTOBER – SAT 24 OCTOBER, SAT 24 OCTOBER – SAT 31 OCTOBER


What a day for our Highlands & Outer Hebs group, hundreds of waders, 8+Hen Harriers, 4 Short-eared Owls, 2 Merlins, a White-tailed Eagle and aSNOWY OWL! SO'H & MW

Good day on the Moray Firth, lots of passage waders, including Whimbrel &Spotted Redshank. A flock of approx 700 Linnet, juv Peg putting everythingup at one site & a juv Goshawk at another. Grey Partridges & Tree Sparrowstoo. #speybay #morayfirth JPI & SO'H

Had a great day riding the Ullapool-Stornoway ferry on our short break.Too many things to list but highlights included all 4 breeding Auks, Manx &Sooty Shearwater, Great, Arctic & Pom Skuas, Storm Petrels, + Loads ofPorpoises & Dolphins & 3 Minke Whales. #birdtheminch JPI & JP

Wet locally so our '20 Scottish Specials' & 'Short Break' groups teamed up forthe Moray Coast. Finding an adult Sabine's Gull off Lossiemouth was a bigbonus but with Med Gull, great views of coastal and farmland species +Bottle nosed Dolphins it was a super day! MW & SOH

A lovely, cool summer's day out on the moorlands for the Highlands & WestCoast group. Starting with Crossbills and calling Crested Tits, onto RedGrouse & Black-throated Divers, finishing with six raptor species including HenHarrier & Golden Eagle! SO'H

Classic #Hebrides, with a superb morning on #Lewis watching Golden #Eaglesand nesting waders, with a flat calm ferry crossing across the Minch withscores of Common #Dolphins and Harbour Porpoises and lots of seabirdsincluding Storm Petrel! PK and SOH

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSShort Breaks in Autumn (p39), Highlands and Skye in Autumn (p50). SCOTTISH ISLANDSColl and Tiree in Autumn for birders (p66), Birding the East Coast inAutumn. (p70).

A FEW SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS FROM OUR RECENT‘SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS’ HOLIDAYS!

First day of @Highland Naturetrip, great moths, White-facedDarter, Northern Damsel loads ofgood flowers including Coral-root#Orchid, field Gentian and OneFlowered Wintergreen. TG &JP

Nice start to our Highlands & Orkneytrip today. S.E.O. Lsr Redpoll, CrestedTit, Slavonian Grebe, Black-throatedDivers with chicks, Red Grouse,Wood Warbler & both Flycatchers.Off to Orkney tomorrow.#birdinghighlands JPI & JP

Travelling to Uist today via Mallaigon our Highlands & Outer Hebs tripso most of the birding was from theferry. 100's of Manx Shearwater,plus Storm Petrel, Gannets, Auks,Kittiwake & Fulmar, Skuas, Lots ofPorpoise, a Minke Whale & GreySeal.

Good couple of days out west,despite the mixed weather, with ourHighlands & Outer Hebs groupgetting close views of Merlin, HenHarrier and Short-eared Owl; plushundreds of close waders includingthis striking adult Baird's Sandpiper!SO'H



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If using public transport, we provide a courtesy transfer service between Aviemoreand The Mountview Hotel. We pick-up at 16.30 hours and 19:30 hours, onSATURDAYS ONLY. If arriving by public transport on a different day, you cantransfer to your overnight hotel by taxi (please contact us for up-to-date taxidetails). Morning drop-offs to Aviemore train station are until 10.30am on the dayof departure. As an alternative you can join the holiday at a point closer to our destination ifthat is more convenient - Oban, Aberdeen, Fort William and Uig on Skyeare regular meeting points on some itineraries.

Combination holidaysYou can take any SCOTTISH ISLAND holiday singly, but mostare conveniently arranged to be enjoyed alongside either aHeatherlea week in the Highlands, or a second holidayelsewhere on the islands. If you combine, you make gooduse of time and minimise travel expenses too. ManyHeatherlea clients choose this option, and thereare lots of possible combinations;please see individual holidaytext for suggestions.

Birding and wildlife The Scottish islands are simply stunning, and with Heatherlea the best wildlifewatching experiences are readily available. Fancy seeing Corncrake on Coll? Howabout shearwaters as you cruise to Canna? Many itineraries are unique, and in2020 we offer more holiday choice than ever, all designed to give you the best ofwildlife at the best time of year. You don’t even need a car to visit some of themost beautiful and wildlife-rich places on earth, we take care of your travelarrangements by including transfers (see below).

Ideal for birders and general wildlifeenthusiasts alikeThese holidays are ideal if you want to see some of the rarest and difficult-to-findbirds of the British Isles. Some holidays target specific species, including Corncrakeand White-tailed Eagle, though on all we are keenly interested in mammals(especially Otter and cetaceans), insects, flora and more. We move at a leisurelypace, giving you time in the evenings before a relaxed dinner, though we movequickly when rare migrants and vagrants are in our sights. We also take time toenjoy the scenery; after all, we are visiting some of the most beautiful places onthe planet!

Personal ServiceWe have a maximum number of seven clients per guide for most holidays. Thismeans more personal attention, and more time with your Guide to help you getthe best possible sightings. Heatherlea is a small company run BY birders FORbirders, where our clients really do come first. Come and see!

What’s included in each holiday◆ comfortable en-suite accommodation. Any exceptions will be identified in

advance. We choose from our personally inspected shortlist, where birdersare welcome, and the hospitality is special. Guests are never expected to share. Full details with your joining pack.

◆ all meals from dinner on arrival, then packed lunch each day, until breakfaston the final day.

◆ all ferries, other boat trips and flights as stated in the itinerary. Please note that transport to the joining point is not included, nor are flights from mainland airports to islands (e.g. Aberdeen – Shetland). All access fees.

◆ the services of your Heatherlea Guide.

* transfers from Nethy Bridge (See below).

Transfers includedMany holidays, particularly to northern islands, begin here in Nethy Bridge, withcourtesy transfers to ferry points or airports, saving you money. This is often themost economical way to visit the remotest parts of Scotland – Heatherlea makeit easy and give you real savings.You may book an extra night’s stay at either end of your holiday, and drivers mayleave vehicles safely parked at Mountview Hotel free of charge. Please note thatextra nights are rarely available within Mountview Hotel, which has only twelveguest rooms. Our near neighbours Nethy Hotel are within easy walking distance,and we can transfer luggage on request. See ‘Getting Here is Easy’ on p35 forsuggestions to help you reach Nethy Bridge.

OUTERHEBRIDES

NORTH RONALDSAY

SOLWAY FIRTH

ST KILDA

ORKNEY

TIREE

COLL

SKYE

ISLAY

MULL

NETHYBRIDGE

ABERDEEN

SHETLAND

COLONSAY

CANNA

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

SCOTTISH ISLAND HOLIDAYS


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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 birdershave enjoyed exceptional birding on the islands, where we always expect theunexpected!

Heatherlea offer several spring and autumn itineraries where we concentrateparticularly on the birds which can take your British list to new heights, and theseare designated ‘for birders’ in this Brochure. Select specific ‘for birders’ holidays toNorth Ronaldsay, Outer Hebrides, Coll and Tiree, Isles of Scilly and Shetland!

During these holidays we maintain our ‘less intensive’ approach, and sometimesbirds are trapped at observatories where we can observe them closely at leisureor are available in roadside locations. At other times, birds are flighty or in placeswhich might be difficult to reach, and then we change plan and move more quicklyto find them. You will need a reasonable level of mobility to appreciate theseholidays to the full. At all times, we observe the Birdwatchers’ Code of Conduct,following common sense and good practice in the interests of both wildlife andwildlife enthusiasts.

Our exceptional guides have a massive amount of experience in finding rare birdsin Scotland. George Gay and Mark Warren have previously been employed atNorth Ronaldsay Bird Observatory, Peter Cosgrove works in conservation onShetland, and Mike Coleman, Ian Ford, Toby Green, Scott O’Hara and Dave Pullanhave been birding Scotland’s outlying islands for many years. Keep in touch withour sightings by subscribing to our social media.

SCOTTISH ISLAND HOLIDAYS ....‘FOR BIRDERS’

The Heatherlea Scottish Checklist – 2nd Edition!We have enjoyed showing the birdlife of Scotland to well over ten thousand people on guided holidays during the last 30 years, throughoutthe mainland and on most of the accessible islands.

We felt there was a need for a ‘Scottish Checklist’ for use in the field, and decided to produce this little booklet for your personal use. Itis consistent with both the British and Scottish Birdlists and contains all species in Categories A, B and C.

This Checklist is priced at £6.95, though is free of charge to Heatherlea clients, while stocks last. We hope this little Checklist is useful toyou, and that you enjoy rewarding and responsible birdwatching wherever you go in Scotland. To make sure of your copy, please contact ouroffice at the time of booking your holiday.

All clients will as usual also receive a personal Checklist on arrival, designed for use during their specific holiday.


Rugged Shetland is a wild and beautiful place throughout the year, and this new trip exploresthe isles in winter, its hardy wildlife and the unique Viking heritage. The Up Helly Aa Viking FireFestival is famous the world over, a real spectacle which will be a feature of this holiday as wetake in cultural experiences, marvel at the parades and enjoy local music and storytelling.

We mainly focus on coastal wildlife, wildfowl featuring strongly, and we will search local gooseflocks for scarcer species such as Tundra and Taiga Bean, Barnacle and White-fronted (bothraces). Birdwatching in sheltered bays and off the coasts offers Great Northern and Red-throated Diver, Slavonian Grebe, Long-tailed Duck and Eider, Black Guillemot (Tysties), PurpleSandpiper and Turnstone. Glaucous and Iceland Gull occur anywhere the fishing industry isactive, and there is a chance of Little Auk too. Passerines are scarce at this time, but we shouldsee Twite and Rock Pipit, with Snow Bunting and Waxwing possible, while raptors are likely toinclude dashing Merlin and speedy Peregrine. Shetland is renowned for rarities and in recentwinters White-billed Diver, Pied-billed Grebe, Lesser Scaup, Ring Necked Duck, King Eider, SurfScoter, 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 befound on the higher ground such as Ronas Hill. It’s a great time of year to look for Otter asindividuals wander the coast and lochs in search of food. Cetaceans are fast becoming a featureof a Shetland winter too with Humpback, Fin and Killer Whale more regular in recent years. Wewill be keen to follow up on any reported animals and we may well see dolphins, HarbourPorpoise, Common and Grey Seal too. With dark skies and little light pollution, winter can alsobe one of the best periods to witness the stunning Aurora Borealis – there can be no guaranteesof course, but with luck we might get a show!

Combine with:SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSBirders Blast (p39), Short Break in Winter (p39).

NEW! UP HELLY AA! – SHETLAND IN WINTERSAT 23 JANUARY – FRIDAY 29 JANUARY 2021

PRICE: £1695ppSingle supplement: £195 Deposit: £300ppPrice excludes flight from Aberdeen, which Heatherlea can arrange at cost. Max 7 clients.



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A late-winter itinerary combining two of our favourite island destinations! Wehave timed this holiday so the winter wildfowl spectacle of tens of thousandsof geese, ducks and waders on Islay can be coupled with both White-tailedand Golden Eagle, plus Hen Harrier, divers and Otters on Mull. A healthy birdliston two scenic and wildlife-rich islands; what a way to complete your winterbirding! Both islands are incredibly beautiful, and with the lovely glow ofScottish light in March, this is a photographer’s dream.

We start on Mull, enjoying relatively empty roads to cover many of ourfavoured wildlife watching areas. Heatherlea have been visiting Mull in Marchfor many years, and we know just the right spots to find our key targetswhatever the tide, wind and weather. After a few days of gentle exploration,we head back to the Mainland, making a slow transfer to deepest Argyll. Wethen board the ferry for our transfer to Islay. The crossing takes around twohours, heading first down West Loch Tarbert, excellent for Great NorthernDivers and Slavonian Grebe. This is a stunning voyage and in the right light isabsolutely breathtaking.

Islay is rightly famous for its wildfowl, we should see many thousands of geese,plus good numbers and diversity of waders and ducks. Islay is much more fertileand low lying than Mull, though we still expect to see eagles. With so muchwildfowl diversity the raptors can’t stay away! This period is a key time forscarce winter visitors too, with good chances of Glaucous and Iceland Gull,Purple Sandpiper and Long-tailed Duck, with every possibility of a rarity. Inrecent years Green-winged Teal, American Wigeon, Cackling Goose and GyrFalcon have all been recorded at this time of year. Number of centres: 2.

MULL & ISLAYSAT 29 FEBRUARY – FRI 6 MARCH

PRICE: £1645ppSingle supplement: £150 Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients. Leader Scott O’Hara

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSHighland Winter Birding (p40), Highlands & the West Coast (p41).

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

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

The short (15 minute) flight to North Ronaldsay, in the 8 seat, Islander plane offers a uniqueopportunity to see the beautiful Orkney Islands from above. We stay at the Bird Observatory, theperfect base where we can witness and learn about the daily ringing and bird census throughoutour stay. Our birding schedule will be dictated by weather. The island is flat, with good roads andeasy access to most ‘hotspots’. In the right conditions, fantastic falls of Scandinavian boundmigrants can arrive, with Tree Pipit, Pied Flycatcher, Redstart and a wide variety of warblers andfinches. Scarcities including Dotterel, Wryneck, Bluethroat, Red-backed Shrike, Icterine Warbler,Lapland Bunting and Common Rosefinch often turn up during this period. We have timed our visitwith one of the best periods for rarities in the last few years. Yellow-rumped (Myrtle) Warbler,Spotted Sandpiper, Subalpine Warbler (both races), Black Kite, Glossy Ibis, American Wigeon,Pectoral Sandpiper, Thrush Nightingale, Hornemann’s Arctic Redpoll, Red-throated Pipit and LittleBunting all recorded recently. Breeding birds include Twite, Black Guillemot, Raven, Arctic Tern andFulmar, while thousands of migrant waders can be present with huge flocks of Turnstone, PurpleSandpiper, Dunlin, Knot and Sanderling, mostly in stunning summer plumage.

Please note that this is a Birders tour, principally focused on finding and identifying rare birds ofour own. For those who would like a more general tour of North Ronaldsay & Orkney, werecommend our Orkney Island Explorer (p58) or Orkney in High Summer (p63) holidays.

Total species c. 90. Number of centres: 2.

NORTH RONALDSAY AND ORKNEY in SPRING for birders

SAT 25 APRIL – FRI 1 MAY, SAT 2 MAY – FRI 8 MAY

PRICE: £1595ppSingle supplement: £130 Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients. Leader George Gay

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSHighlands and Skye (p42), Birding the Highlands inMay (p43). SCOTTISH ISLANDS Outer Hebrides in Spring (p55), Shetland in Springfor birders (p55).



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This cracking holiday celebrates the tremendous birding available here in spring. Westay for six nights on the Outer Hebrides and popular target species includeCorncrake, both eagles, Hen Harrier, Short-eared Owl, four Skuas, waders in summercolours, 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 onthe 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, ArcticRedpoll, Buff-breasted Sandpiper and American Wigeon have all been recorded inrecent years, and Dotterel are possible too – a great six days!

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

Everyone who has ever joined this holiday has seen Corncrake, and we target thisspecial bird almost as soon as we arrive. Corn Bunting, Ringed Plover, Meadow Pipitand Skylark make the machair a special habitat – full of song! Summer-plumagedGreat 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 andLong-tailed Skua offshore, sometimes by the hundreds – unforgettable! Gull numbersare 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 supportHen 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 good numbers of Whimbrel, both godwits, andthousands of Dunlin, Knot, Sanderling and Turnstone, many in summer plumage. Wereturn via Skye, before returning to Nethy Bridge on Friday evening after a feast ofbirds! We stay in comfortable en-suite accommodation throughout.

Total species c. 90. Number of centres: 1.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSHighlands and Skye (p42), Birding the Highlands in May (p43),Highlands & Corncrake (p43). SCOTTISH ISLANDS North Ronaldsay & Orkney in Spring for birders (p54), Shetlandin Spring for birders (p55), NEW! Birding the North Coast 500(p56), Shetland Island Explorer (p57), Orkney & The FlowCountry (p57).

OUTER HEBRIDES in SPRINGSAT 2 MAY – FRI 8 MAY, SAT 9 MAY – FRI 15 MAY

PRICE: £1595ppSingle supplement: £60. Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients per leader. Leader Scott O’Hara (1st dep), and John Picton (2nd dep).

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 infine breeding colours. We dedicate time to searching for our own rarities, and typical scarcebirds include Red-backed Shrike, Bluethroat, Common Rosefinch, Wryneck, Rustic Buntingand Subalpine Warbler, with ‘overshoots’ from the Mediterranean expected. If the windsshift to the south east, birds of Eastern Europe or even Siberia might be found. Anythingis possible!

A visit to Hermaness is always superb, with Great and Arctic Skua and nesting waders suchas Golden Plover, Snipe and Dunlin at close range on a moorland walk. At the cliffs wehave incredible views down into a bustling gannetry and enjoy other seabirds in highnumbers at the most northerly part of Britain! Other key destinations include SumburghHead, one of the best land-based watchpoints for Killer Whales, and Fetlar, a good placefor Otters though more famous for nesting Red-necked Phalarope, which return about thistime.

We take time to bird many of the voes and inlets, looking for passage seaduck and GreatNorthern Diver. White-billed Diver and King Eider are annual, and on headlands in the westwe may see a late Snow or Lapland Bunting, or Dotterel. There is the possibility of Pomarineand 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 nestingwaders, with Redshank, Lapwing, Curlew, Oystercatcher and Ringed Plover at high densities,large numbers of Twite, Rock Pipit and Wheatear, and rare nesting birds including plentifulRed-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 tospend time identifying a tricky bird, that takes precedent. Historical sites, shops and culturalaspects take a backseat on this holiday in favour of superb birding! Number of centres: 2.

SHETLAND IN SPRING for birdersSAT 9 MAY – SAT 16 MAY

PRICE: £1745ppSingle supplement: £250*. Deposit: £200ppPrice excludes flight from Aberdeen, which Heatherlea can arrange at cost. Max 7 clients.Leader Mark Warren.

*this single supplement can be reduced significantly should singles be willing to share abathroom with one other person for a limited part of the trip.of the trip.

Combine with:SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Birding the Highlands in May(p43), Highlands & Corncrake (p43).SCOTTISH ISLANDS North Ronaldsay & Orkney inSpring for birders (p54), Outer Hebrides in Spring (p55).Shetland Island Explorer (p57).



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Wonderful wildlife amid some of Scotland’s finest scenery is firmly on the agenda onthis spectacular journey around some of the country’s most northerly coastal points,feted by holiday-makers and travel writers alike as one of the best road trips in theworld.

Our tour takes you to the best places for wildlife. There will be many highlights, suchas Handa Island, Dunnet Head and Duncansby Head for their seabirds. The FlowCountry of Caithness and Sutherland is a fantastic and unique, often deemed to beas important a habitat as the Amazonian Rainforest! At RSPB Broubster Leans, breedingwaders and passerines are on territory and passage Whimbrel, Short-eared Owl,Merlin and Hen Harrier may be seen. Many other excellent sites on northern coastsare visited on this holiday including Loch Fleet for passage birds, Icelandic boundwaders in summer plumage on any number of pristine golden beaches, and Applecrossfor eagles, and Ptarmigan. Otters and perhaps cetaceans may be encountered off therugged coastline; this holiday really does offer a huge range of the best wildlifenorthern Scotland offers in spring!

Above all, this is an exciting birding adventure in underwatched places of the country.Visits to seabird colonies featuring Puffin, Guillemot and Razorbill densely packedand 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 northerncolonies 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 Eagle, White-tailed Eagle, BlackGuillemot, 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 andrail connections. We don’t follow the exact route of the ‘North Coast 500’, preferringdeviations to cater for wildlife and birding considerations. Number of centres 3.

NEW! BIRDING THE NORTH COAST 500 SAT 16 MAY – SAT 23 MAY

PRICE: £1695ppSingle supplement: £125 Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients. Leader Ian Ford.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Birding the Highlands in May (p43), Highlands & Corncrake (p43).SCOTTISH ISLANDS Outer Hebrides in Spring (p55).

Mull is a wildlife paradise, with higher densities of Golden and White-tailed Eagles than anywhere else in Britain, plus Hen Harrier, Short-earedOwl, Raven and a range of northern moorland species. The fields holdmany waders, including Snipe, Golden Plover, Curlew, Lapwing andOystercatcher, and we also intend to spend time Otter watching. All thisamongst magnificent scenery, featuring towering cliffs, picturesqueshorelines, rocky foreshores and beautiful pristine beaches.

The coastal habitat is extra special, and we enjoy a thrilling boat trip to theIsle of Staffa, where we have enough time to visit Fingal’s Cave and alsoscan for Great Skua. Later we go to the tiny isle of Lunga, where the ‘Puffinexperience’ is one of the best in the British Isles. Passing right by theburrows, the birds are tolerant, and a careful birder can enjoy views at justa few feet. Further along, other auk species, Shag and gulls can be safelyappreciated at close range. Photographers will love this! A quiet walk awayfrom the main cliffs and we may hear Twite, Rock Pipit and Wheatearsinging. From the boat, we enjoy the breeding seabirds at ‘their level’ andalso perhaps Kittiwake, Manx Shearwater and perhaps tiny Storm Petrel,Great Skua and Arctic Tern.

As well as thoroughly exploring Mull itself, including a special place ortwo rarely visited by birders, we visit the small island of Iona. Any lingeringGreat Northern Diver will be superb in summer finery, and an absorbingday should once again include both eagle species and Red Deer. On Ionaat this time the grassy fields around the ancient Abbey hold Corncrake.There can be up to 20 males calling, and although we can’t guarantee asighting, we are often rewarded with a glimpse or two and should hear thebirds rasping. On recent trips we have seen Common Dolphin, MinkeWhale, Basking Shark and even a Bearded Seal – a really exciting holiday.Total species c. 70. Number of centres: 1.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlands & Corncrake (p43).

MULL, IONA and the TRESHNISH ISLES

TUES 12 MAY – SAT 16 MAY

PRICE: £1495ppSingle supplement: £160 Deposit £200ppMax 7 clients. Leader Rob Jordan.



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Shetland is rugged, windswept and wild, and is best explored in late-spring in either May andJune, 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 viewspast white rocks covered with nesting Gannets to the lighthouse at Muckle Flugga, the mostnortherly British islands. Another day, we stand by the lighthouse at Sumburgh, Shetland’s mostsoutherly tip, with views to Fair Isle. In-between, our time is devoted to these islands of rollinghills, jagged sea-cliffs and secluded sheltered havens for wind-blown birds. We also take severalspectacular boat trips to visit the more remote offshore islands, all busy with birds.

The Shetland Isles are the summer home to some of the biggest seabird colonies in Britain. Atthis time Gannet, Puffin, Guillemot, Razorbill and Black Guillemot number over half a millionin total. Offshore Kittiwake, Common and Arctic Tern are harassed by marauding Great andArctic Skua to relinquish their catch. The (endemic) ‘Shetland’ Wren is common, as are breedingWheatear, Meadow and Rock Pipit and Twite. Moorland lochs host Red-throated Diver instunning breeding plumage, plus wildfowl and waders. Two birds of national significance whichbreed here are Whimbrel and Red-necked Phalarope, both with very small populations butwe have every chance of finding them at known sites.

Many guests list a visit to the Storm Petrel colony on Mousa as their highlight. To stand in thebest kept iron-age broch in the world at dusk, as tiny Storm Petrels flit around and churr fromthe walls and stone beaches is truly magical. Shetland is a very good place to see Otters andboth Common and Grey Seals too. Cetaceans including Harbour Porpoise, Minke Whale andOrca 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 birdlifeof at least seven islands. You will visit Fetlar, Mousa and Noss (non-landing), as well as birdingextensively on Unst, Yell and Mainland. Truly a holiday for the ‘island explorer’, as we witnesssome of the most impressive scenery and wildlife in the country; a fantastic experience in thelong, northern summer. Total species c. 65. Number of centres: 2.

SHETLAND ISLAND EXPLORERSAT 16 MAY – SAT 23 MAY, SAT 23 MAY – SAT 30 MAY

PRICE: £1945ppSingle supplement: £295*. Deposit: £200ppPrice excludes flights from Aberdeen to Sumburgh, which Heatherlea can arrange at cost. Max 7 clients. Leader Mark Warren (1st departure) and Scott O’Hara (2nd departure).

*The single supplement can be reduced significantly on this departure if singles are willingto share a bathroom with one other person for a limited part of the trip.

Combine with:SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSBirding the Highlands in May (p43), Highlands andCorncrake (p43), High Season across the Highlands (p44)SCOTTISH ISLANDS Outer Hebrides in Spring (p55), Shetland in Spring forbirders (p55), Southern Hebrides (p59).

A late-spring birding trip, combining the wildlife highlights of Orkney with the key sites andwildlife of the far north of the Scottish Mainland, including a tour around the Flow Countryof Caithness and Sutherland. Timed so breeding birds are on territory, with an excellent chanceof scarce migrants too, this is a birding adventure in a really underwatched corner of thecountry! Key sites include Forsinard, The Loons, Birsay Moors and Marwick Head (all RSPBreserves), Duncansby Head, Strathy Point, Skaill Bay, St John's Pool and Loch Loyal, all at the besttime of year for their respective wildlife.

We visit seabird colonies, where busy ledges are packed with nesting Guillemot, Razorbill,Shag, Fulmar and Kittiwake. Puffins, Black Guillemot and ‘real’ Rock Dove can also be expected,and the sound and smell of these northern colonies is a real experience. Gannet, terns, gullsand passerines such as Twite , Wheatear and Rock Pipit complete the avifauna here and inland.We will aim to also see nesting waders and waterfowl, where scarce northern species such asRed-throated Diver, Black-throated Diver, Golden Plover, Snipe, Greenshank and Dunlin are inabundance. On higher ground Golden and White-tailed Eagle may be seen and if we are luckya quartering Hen Harrier or flashing Merlin. The first flowers and butterflies will be out too,with Small Blue butterfly a target for the lepidopterists and Scottish Primrose for the botanists!

On the journey over to Orkney, we have good chances of cetaceans and we have timed thistrip to coincide with peak Orca movements. The Pentland Firth and Scapa Flow are fastbecoming some of most reliable sites for Killer Whales in the last few years and we have beenlucky at this time in the past. With visits to five key headlands for sea watches, two ferrycrossings and an excellent information grapevine, we have every chance. Consolation prizes areMinke Whale, Risso’s Dolphin, White-beaked Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise. The longer welook, the more we see! Scarce migrant birds are very possible at this exciting time of year, andwe will investigate any reported rarities and hopefully find a few of our own. In recent yearsRed-backed Shrike, Red-throated Pipit, Bluethroat, Rustic Bunting and Common Rosefinch havebeen found in the north at this time of year. Number of centres 3.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Birding the Highlands in May (p43), Highlands &Corncrake (p43). SCOTTISH ISLANDS Outer Hebrides in Spring (p55).

ORKNEY and THE FLOW COUNTRYSAT 16 MAY – SAT 23 MAY

PRICE: £1695ppSingle supplement: £125. Deposit: £200pp. Max 7 clients. Leader John Picton.



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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 intofull bloom, Corncrake rasping, Snipe drumming, Redshank, Arctic and Little Ternsvociferously guarding territories, and Basking Shark, Minke Whale and Common and GreySeals around the white, sandy shorelines, this holiday is a wonderful celebration ofScottish island wildlife.

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

Everyone loves to see Corncrake, and Tiree is home to more calling males than anywhereelse in Britain. Tiree also has a nationally important population of breeding waders, andthe 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 ofGrasshopper 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-visitedof all large Scottish islands, Coll and Tiree are special places.

Our final ferry takes us between the Ardnamurchan Peninsula and Mull to Oban, keepingour eyes open for Harbour Porpoise, Bottle-nosed, Common and Risso’s Dolphins, MinkeWhale and a host of seabirds including Manx Shearwater. From Oban, we drive back toNethy Bridge. Total species c. 90. Number of centres: 4.

ISLANDS ON THE EDGE from Coll and Tiree to the Uists

SAT 23 MAY – SAT 30 MAY, SAT 6 JUNE – SAT 13 JUNE

PRICE: £1995ppSingle supplement: £195 Deposit: £200pp Max 7 clients per departure. Leader Toby Green (1st departure), Scott O’Hara (2nd departure).

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlands & Corncrake (p43), High Season across theHighlands (p44), Outer Limits in Summer (p45).SCOTTISH ISLANDS Southern Hebrides (p59).

This dedicated trip to Orkney is a wide-ranging exploration of these fabulous islands. The mainfocus 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 alongthe meadow fringes. Eight species of duck, including locally uncommon Shoveler and Pintail plusa variety of waders, including breeding Black-tailed Godwit and Snipe and Water Rail alsofrequent these areas. We visit seabird cliffs, and see waders, divers and ducks inland, plus BrownHare, and Common and Grey Seal.

Island hopping is a key feature of this thorough exploration of Orkney. We visit Westray for itsspecial seabirds, Rousay is famed for archaeology and Hoy is unique in the archipelago; threevery different islands all with very different habitats and associated flora and fauna. On Mainlandwe have many options selecting the best sites for increased variety, dedicating time to theexcellent Birsay Moors, the Loons RSPB and other great wildlife hotspots known to our guides.

Another highlight will be our ‘Islander’ flight to the tiny island of North Ronaldsay. Famed forits seaweed eating sheep, we stay at the Bird Observatory, a perfect base to work closely withthe wardening team and learn about ‘island life’. In previous years we have seen scarce migrantsincluding 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 haveplenty 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 WorldHeritage Site settlement of Skara Brae is a must-see, as are Maes Howe, the 6-metre highStanding Stones of Stenness and the 5000-year-old Ring of Brodgar. All entry fees are includedin your holiday price and we will also plan to visit the Italian Chapel, Scapa Flow Museum, Tombof the Eagles (if time allows) and historic Kirkwall for its sites and for a spot of souvenir huntingin the narrow lanes. Total species c. 80. Number of centres: 2.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlands & Corncrake (p43) Highlands and Orkney(p44).

ORKNEY ISLAND EXPLORER Westray, Hoy, Rousay, Burray andboth South and North Ronaldsay

SAT 30 MAY – SAT 6 JUNE

PRICE: £1895ppSingle supplement: £150 Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients. Leader Mark Warren.



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Join us to enjoy some of the most impressive scenery and wildlife in Britain, and indulge in theculture, history and archaeology of these ancient lands. A fantastic experience in the longnorthern summer.

We fly Aberdeen to Sumburgh and explore south Mainland, including a seawatch where we hopeto see Puffins, and have a chance of Minke Whale, Harbour Porpoise and Orca. A visit to locallochs should produce Red-throated Diver and skuas, breeding Golden Plover, Whimbrel andCurlew, ‘real’ Rock Dove, Black Guillemot, Twite and ‘Shetland’ Wren. We make a late evening visitto the Storm Petrel colony on Mousa, a spectacular show of sight, sound and smell!

We expect close-up views of Gannet, Guillemot, Razorbill, Puffin and Kittiwake by the thousand,and it is the sheer numbers which impress the most. Confiding Arctic Skua are present, andHarbour Porpoise are likely from land or boat. We make ferry trips to Unst, the most northerlyinhabited island, and Fetlar, where dainty Red-necked Phalarope may be seen, and we have agood chance of Otter here too. At Hermaness, a walk through the world’s second-largest GreatSkua colony takes us to the northernmost cliffs of the British Isles. From the 400ft high cliffs, weoverlook the lighthouse of Muckle Flugga and around 140,000 breeding seabirds! At anothersite we also look for Edmondston’s Chickweed (Shetland Mouse-ear), one of the world’s rarestplants, endemic to Shetland.

After a great few days on Shetland watching birds in the ‘simmer dim’, we transfer to Orkney. Withthe archipelago Hen Harrier and Short-eared Owl quarter moorland in search of Orkney Vole,and Peregrine and Merlin hunt waders and passerines along the meadow fringes. Uncommonbreeders include Shoveler and Pintail, Black-tailed Godwit and Snipe with Water Rail also foundon inland pools. Rich in archaeological interest the 6-metre high Standing Stones of Stenness,Ring of Brodgar, 5000 year old Skara Brae are must visit sites and we will also plan to includeMaes Howe, Scapa Flow, the Churchill Barriers and the Italian Chapel in a thorough explorationof these amazing islands. All access fees included. Return by air to Aberdeen. Total species c. 75.Number of centres: 3.

SHETLAND and ORKNEYSAT 13 JUNE – SUN 21 JUNE

PRICE: £2195ppSingle supplement: £295. Deposit £200pp Price excludes flight from Aberdeen, whichHeatherlea can arrange at cost. Max 7 clients. Leader Toby Green.

*The single supplement can be reduced significantly if singles are willing to share abathroom with one other person for a limited part of the trip

Combine with:SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSHighlands & Orkney (p44).

In this little visited part of Scotland’s Hebridean archipelago lie fascinating and diverse islands,hosting stunning wildlife as spring turns to summer in the Inner Hebrides. On this uniqueholiday we make a leisurely journey through these enchanting islands and their wildlife. Webegin on Colonsay, where we spend three nights in comfortable accommodation as we makea thorough exploration. A variety of habitats await, including ancient and cultivatedwoodland, moorland and peat bogs, meadows and farmland, machair and coastal flats andpristine beaches and offshore islands hosting a wealth of wildlife. The crofting land shouldprove good for farmland birds including Corncrake and Twite. Overhead we watch for Goldenand White-tailed Eagle, Peregrine and possibly Merlin with Otter frequenting the coasts. Wevisit the gardens of Colonsay House, good for warblers and migrants as well as woodlandflora and fauna, and famous as one of the finest rhododendron gardens in Scotland. We walkacross a sandy tidal causeway (The Strand) to the RSPB island of Oronsay, where Chough andCorncrake are found, and spend some time here enjoying the views and solitude. Otherimportant breeding birds include Lapwing, Redshank, Twite, Skylark and Linnet.

Our next ferry takes us south, as we head for Islay, home to around 100 species of breedingbirds. We take a cliff walk around the southern tip, search tidal lochs for ducks and waders,and look for Otter among seaweed-strewn bays. Inland habitats give us a good chance ofRaven, Hooded Crow, Peregrine and Golden Eagle. Other raptors on Islay include Merlin,Buzzard, Kestrel, Sparrowhawk, quartering Hen Harrier, and the occasional White-tailed Eagle.We also visit the Rhinns area of South-west Islay, and the dunes and beaches of Saligo andMachir Bay, to see breeding waders and farmland birds. If we are lucky we may find MarshFritillary butterfly on the wing. One day we make the short journey to Jura, to look for Otterand raptors, and are sure to spot Red Deer (there are approximately 5000 here!). Finally, wetransfer back to the Scottish mainland and head homewards. Total species c. 80. Number ofcentres: 2.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlands & Corncrake (p43), Highlands and Orkney (p44). SCOTTISH ISLANDS Shetland Island Explorer (p57), Islands on the Edge (p58).

SOUTHERN HEBRIDES from Colonsay to Islay

SUN 31 MAY – SAT 6 JUNE

PRICE: £1945ppSingle supplement: £275. Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients. Leader Toby Green.



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A real adventure, taking in some of the most remote and isolated parts of theBritish Isles, including chartered boat trips to rarely visited Little Bernera, and theShiant Islands. We travel across Skye, where highlights include both eagles, Otterand a quiet spot for Adders. We also search for Hen Harrier and Short-eared Owlon remote back roads. Depending on weather, we may explore Harris, wherestunning beaches and superb mountains make the island so famous, with picture-postcard views around every corner or head to Berneray across the Sound of Harristo see the dunes and machair. On Lewis, we take a RIB boat trip to Little Bernera,a fascinating and under visited island west of Lewis featuring good flora and faunain breathtaking scenery. The overwhelming feel is of space and solitude, and youare unlikely to meet many other tourists! On Lewis, we explore the rarely visitedsouthwest corner, targeting Golden and White-tailed Eagle, Merlin, Twite,Wheatear, Red-throated and Black-throated Diver, Cuckoo, Eider, Greenshank andother waders, Common and Grey Seal and Otter. Other highlights are a visit to theCallanish standing stones and ancient Dun Carloway broch. At the Butt of Lewis,seabirds fly around the north-western edge of the British Isles and we enjoy greatviews as they pass. Twite, Rock Pipit and Wheatear breed and rarities can arrive atany time on this exposed headland.

A major destination is the Shiant Isles, twelve miles from the northern tip of Skye.This is a very important Puffin site, hosting around 240,000 birds, two percent ofthe world’s population! We charter our own RIB boat, and as we travel, the seas canteem with birds: Manx Shearwater, Arctic Skua, Great Skua around the ‘flurries’ offish, many Guillemot, Razorbill, Kittiwake, the occasional Storm Petrel, and more!We have excellent chances of Rock Dove, Peregrine and White-tailed Eagle hereand on our final morning during a visit to Tiumpan Head, a great seawatching spot,with a long list of recorded cetaceans. Our holiday concludes with a return crossingof the Minch with further wildlife opportunities. Total species c. 80. Number ofcentres: 3.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS The Outer Limits in summer (p45), Eagles, Divers and Dotterel(p46). SCOTTISH ISLANDS Inner Hebrides from Canna to Iona (p60), Ultimate OuterHebrides (p61).

OUTER HEBRIDES and the SHIANT ISLES Skye, Harris, Lewis, and the Shiant Isles

SAT 27 JUNE – FRI 3 JULY

PRICE: £1895ppSingle supplement: £160 Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients. Leader Ian Ford.

This exciting journey through the Inner Hebrides takes you to seven beautifulislands, Canna, Eigg, Muck, Mull, Staffa, Lunga and Iona. We also visit remoteArdnamurchan, and travel through the scenic west coast between Mallaig andMorvern, 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 holidayis relaxed, and we stay at three centres as we make our way south from Mallaig toMull.

We enjoy a day exploring Canna by foot, looking for eagles, skuas and other birdlifeof the basalt cliffs, sea caves, green meadows, stacks and sandy shores. MinkeWhale is an important target on an unforgettable boat trip across the sea to Eiggand Muck, and Basking Shark, Manx Shearwater, Black Guillemot, Raven, and maybea tiny darting 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 peninsulais often overlooked, yet blessed with wonderful wildlife, and we have access toremote wilderness sites here, where we seek Otter.

On Mull, a true wildlife paradise and with more eagles than anywhere else in Britainwe can expect excellent views along with Hen Harrier, Short-eared Owl, Raven anda 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 enjoyanother thrilling boat trip, first visiting the Isle of Staffa, where we can see Fingal’sCave and also scan for breeding Great Skua. Any lingering Great Northern Diverwill 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 upto 20 males calling, and although we can’t guarantee a sighting, we should hearthe birds rasping, and may get lucky with a glimpse or two! Total species c. 75.Number of centres: 3.

Combine with:SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSNEW! Highlands & Isle of May (p45), Highland Wildlife (p46). SCOTTISH ISLANDS Outer Hebrides and the Shiant Isles (p60).

INNER HEBRIDES from Canna to IonaFRI 19 JUNE – FRI 26 JUNE

PRICE: £1945ppSingle supplement: £170 Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients. Leader Scott O’Hara.



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A fabulous six-day cruise aimed at wonderful St Kilda, one of Scotland’s World Heritage Sites.Your chances of reaching the islands are excellent, because we travel with a skipper based onthe land nearest to St Kilda itself. Operators based further away are more susceptible toweather conditions which may deny the opportunity to reach the islands. From Nethy Bridgewe cross The Minch to Stornoway, where we relax with a walk through nearby woodlandlooking for island races of Wren and Song Thrush. On Saturday, we board our comfortablevessel for six nights on the ocean wave, climaxing in our expedition westwards to the outpostof St Kilda. There are no guarantees, but in reasonable weather we moor overnight in villagebay, and spend a full day on the largest island, Hirta. This should give us time to find St KildaWren, a distinctive subspecies, 2-3g heavier than mainland birds. Soay Sheep, St Kilda FieldMouse and the history of this remote community will also be of great interest, and sunrise andsunset are spectacular in good weather.

Everyone should visit St Kilda at least and the islands are famous for its huge seabird colonies.The spectacle and clamour of a million birds at the height of their breeding season, in north-west Europe’s largest colony, is unforgettable. Highlights include Puffin (more than 250,000 –the largest colony in Britain), Manx Shearwater, Fulmar (more than 100,000 – the largest colonyin Western Europe), Guillemot and Razorbill. The Gannet colony is the largest in the world,estimated at over 120,000 birds and growing! As we sail, Manx Shearwater, Arctic Skua, GreatSkua for feeding frenzies around the ‘flurries’ of fish alongside Guillemot, Razorbill, Kittiwake.We should see Storm Petrel too - the seas can teem with birds. We should encounter Otteron rocky beaches and inlets, and Minke Whale, Basking Shark, Harbour Porpoise, Bottle-nosed,Common and Risso’s Dolphin are all possible too.

There is no fixed itinerary for the rest of the holiday, though spectacular island scenery is allaround, and we will visit remote bays and unspoilt beaches where bird life is likely to includeall three divers in breeding plumage, waders including Greenshank and Golden Plover, White-tailed and Golden Eagles, Merlin and Twite. We explore the machair and its flora, with rareorchids in flower as we embark on day trips to other depopulated islands perhaps includingScarp, Little Bernera, Taransay or perhaps the Monarch Isles. Total species c. 65. Number ofcentres: 2.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlands & Wester Ross (p47). SCOTTISH ISLANDS, Orkney in High Summer (p63).

ST KILDA AND THE HEBRIDES FRI 10 JULY – FRI 17 JULY

PRICE: £1995pp Shared cabins. Single supplement: £15 (land only) Deposit: £200pp Max 10 clients. Leader Toby Green.

A complete 10-day tour of the Outer Hebrides, from the Butt of Lewis at thenorthernmost point, to Mingulay at the very southern end of the island chain. Acomprehensive tour through the isles in high summer, we pay special considerationtoward general natural history, including birds, cetaceans, insect life, abundant flora, andalso key historical and cultural sites, all at a leisurely pace.

Lewis is a fascinating island, internationally important for divers, Greenshank, eagles andother raptors. We head to the northernmost point, the famous Butt of Lewis, a superbseawatching spot, then work our way down the west coast, calling in at Dun Carlowaybroch and the Standing Stones of Callinish. We take minor roads to Uig for Golden andWhite-tailed Eagle and take to the water to explore the coastline and sealochsthoroughly. With luck we may connect with cetaceans and perhaps our first Otter andseals.

Harris is a scenic gem, with a different feel to Lewis, and a full range of rugged habitats,long sweeping beaches and dune systems. We spend a full day exploring, and have goodchances of Raven, Peregrine and perhaps a fleeting Merlin, plus both eagles.

Our ferry to the southern half of the Outer Hebrides takes a slow journey through isletsin the Sound of Harris. We spend a morning on Berneray, and head south to BalranaldRSPB 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 toMingulay, the largest of the uninhabited islands at the extreme south of the OuterHebridean archipelago. Superb for seabirds and general scenery, this promises to be anexciting day on the water.

On South Uist we look for Otter, and Hen Harrier, continuing south one afternoon toEriskay, another beautiful island now joined by causeway. We travel by ferry to Barra, andthis island of rich, white sand backed by vibrant green crofting land dotted with outcropsof rock, is perhaps one of the most photogenic destinations in Scotland. Finally, we takethe ferry from Barra to Oban, with good chances of Minke Whale or a Basking Shark en-route. Number of centres 4.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS NEW! Highlands & Isle of May (p45), Highland Wildlife (p46).SCOTTISH ISLANDS Outer Hebrides and the Shiants (p60).

ULTIMATE OUTER HEBRIDES SAT 4 JULY – MON 13 JULY

PRICE: £2145ppSingle supplement: £210. Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients. Leader Scott O’Hara.



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

Basking Shark is an important target, we are here at perhaps the best time for thisstrange and impressive large fish. The waters around Coll and Tiree hold some ofthe highest numbers in the UK, and we may also see them from ferries betweenOban and the islands. Seawatching can be excellent too, and our ferry journeysmay also produce Storm Petrel, Manx Shearwater and many auks – excitement allthe way!

On Coll we look for Otter, breeding Hen Harrier and also plants of the machair. Theisland has an abundance of orchids with Pyramidal and Frog being key targetspecies, and Common Centaury, Field Gentian and Grass of Parnassus will besought too. A full day here will be spent looking for wildlife from waders in brightsummer plumage, to insects of the machair, including rare Great Yellow Bumblebeeand very rare Red Shanked Carder Bee.

During our transfer to Tiree we again look out for Basking Shark. cetaceans andseabirds, arriving on a breathtakingly beautiful island with a ‘big sky’ feeling. Orchidsagain feature on ‘the machair’ along with Lesser Meadow Rue and other sandyspecialists. Seabirds, Corncrake, waders, passerines, rare plants and insects - thereis so much to see and do on Coll and Tiree! Both islands have a high density ofnesting waders, and with young having fledged most will be in large post-breedingflocks, which can harbour rarities. Corncrake will still be present, though this latein the season are harder to find in tall grass being less vocal or territorial havingattracted a mate. We do of course still have a chance, taking an optional eveningdrive, listening out for their rasping calls and for Spotted Crake which has bredpreviously on Tiree. The holiday begins and ends in Oban, though transfers fromNethy Bridge are also available. No of centres: 2.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Eagles, Divers & Dotterel (p46), Highlands & Wester Ross (p47).

COLL and TIREE in SUMMERMON 13 JULY – SAT 18 JULY

PRICE: £1645ppSingle supplement: £175 Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients. Leader Mike Coleman.

A unique, exclusive eight-day voyage among beautiful Inner Hebridean islands. Welook forward to incredible wildlife experiences and spectacular scenery makingregular landings at remote places. With ample time to explore, we take in wildlifefrom soaring eagles to Otters and wildflowers exploring Mull from all sides and thevery different islands of Gometra, Staffa, Lunga, Iona, Colonsay and Jura. Our vesselis perfect for exploring this stunning group of islands, powerful enough to cruiseacross the open wave, yet small enough to access sheltered sea lochs and shallowerwaters inaccessible to larger ships. We watch from well positioned outside decks,relax in a wonderful saloon, and dine on the finest locally sourced and freshlyprepared cuisine.

We travel comfortably on the open ocean scanning for Gannet, Fulmar, Great andArctic Skua, auks, gulls and perhaps Manx Shearwater and tiny Storm Petrel. Thereis much to see and on the Treshnish Isles we land on Lunga, blanketed withbreeding seabirds including thousands of Guillemot, Razorbill, Kittiwake, Puffin andShag. Sealochs around Mull offer eagles, Red-breasted Merganser, Eider, BlackGuillemot, Red-throated and Black-throated Diver on fishing forays plus summeringGreat Northern Diver. Staffa is famous for its sea caves and we visit the mostfamous of these, Fingal’s Cave. Iona is small though its rich wildflower meadowssupport Corncrake and its famous Abbey while Colonsay is a rarely-visited gem,with habitats including ancient woodland, moorland and peat bogs, some of thefinest beaches in Scotland, and ‘the machair’ unique to the Hebrides. Birds toexpect here include Chough, Twite, Stonechat, Wheatear, perhaps raptors includingMerlin and there is an outside chance of Corncrake. Jura comes next, watchingfrom deck for both eagles, Raven and Hooded Crow while maintaining an eye forwaders, seals and Otter. Back towards Mull and at our last overnight stop we havethe same opportunities, and if lucky glimpse a Hen Harrier and Short-eared Owlmight be seen over the fields and moorland. A superb new holiday, and anenjoyable way to see the wildlife from land and sea! Total species c. 80. Numberof centres: 1.

NEW! HEBRIDEAN ISLAND CRUISE An exciting exploration ofMull, Colonsay, Staffa, Iona and more by sea.

WED 15 JULY – WED 22 JULY

PRICE: £2450pp (STANDARD CABINS), £2650pp (SUPERIOR CABINS).No single supplement (shared cabins). Deposit: £700pp. Max 10 clients. Leader Ian Ford. Please note this holiday starts and ends in Oban



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

We transfer from Heatherlea to Orkney via ferry watching for seabirds and cetaceans fromthe open deck. Once we arrive, we begin wildlife watching and visit the wonderfully craftedItalian Chapel. Our next few days will see us island hopping, taking in the full range ofOrcadian habitats on fertile Westray, where we enjoy the Gannets of Noup Head and Puffinsat another site. On Hoy, we walk through the Great Skua colony to view the famous ‘OldMan’ stack and have excellent chances of seeing breeding Hen Harrier and Red-throatedDiver, plus also White-tailed Eagle which has only recently returned after a 100year absence.On Mainland Orkney, post-breeding waders, Twite and raptors including Merlin are toptargets again and we visit many of the finest archaeological sites in Britain from the 5000yearold Skara Brae settlement, immaculate Maeshowe, Broch of Gurness, Tomb of the Eagles (iftime allows), the 6-metre high Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar -perhapsthe most iconic. All entry fees are included, and we also visit Scapa Flow and the ChurchillBarriers with time in Kirkwall or Stromness for their respective historic sites, or a spot ofsouvenir hunting in the narrow lanes.

An exciting part of this holiday is our trip to North Ronaldsay, beginning with an 8-seaterIslander flight to the island offering a unique opportunity to see the Orkney Isles fromabove. Here we hope to see Storm Petrels, and our visit coincides with the period for ringingstudies where large nightly catches, perhaps of over 100 birds might include a rare Leach’sPetrel too! An unforgettable experience, though netting sessions are weather dependent.The birding is always great here and rarities at this time can include Balearic, Great and Cory’sShearwater, Roseate Tern, Spoonbill, Pacific Golden Plover, Lesser Yellowlegs, PectoralSandpiper, Grey Phalarope, White-winged Black Tern and Two-barred Crossbill - on NorthRonaldsay anything is possible! Total species c. 80. Number of centres: 2.

Few birders venture to this remote outpost, so expect peace and quiet with a strong sense ofexploration, and depending on the predominant wind direction, birds from east or west. Choose ourearly autumn date for the beginning of return passerine migration or the latter dates when migrationis in full swing.

In favorable conditions, passage migrants may include Willow, Garden and Wood Warbler, Pied andSpotted Flycatcher, Redstart, Whinchat, Tree Pipit and other common passerines. Island habitats arevaried, offering fantastic wader passage and joining commoner species can be Greenshank, Black-tailed Godwit, Wood, Green, Common and Curlew Sandpiper, Little Stint while regular rarities haveincluded American Golden Plover, Pectoral and Buff-breasted Sandpiper and Red-necked Phalarope.Osprey, Marsh and Hen Harrier, Merlin and Short-eared Owl frequently visit too, and while can be noguarantee 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. Acompletely different birding holiday destination, North Ronaldsay is easy to reach with Heatherleaand in good weather, regular scarcities might include Red-backed Shrike, Richard’s Pipit, Wryneck,Bluethroat, Red-breasted Flycatcher, Barred, Icterine, Yellow-browed and Marsh Warbler, CommonRosefinch, Ortolan, Lapland and Little Bunting. Rarities might include Great Snipe, Citrine Wagtail,Pechora Pipit, Radde’s, Greenish, Eastern Olivaceous, Arctic, Sykes and Pallas’s Grasshopper Warbler,Brown Shrike, Yellow-breasted and Rustic Bunting and Arctic Redpoll. Seawatching can be exceptional,and the early date is traditionally a good time when large movements of Sooty Shearwater, StormPetrel and skuas can take place with this also the best time for Great, Cory’s and Balearic Shearwater.

We also enjoy birding around Orkney, visiting hotspots known to our guides where anything canhappen! If there is time we may visit the impressive standing stones at the Ring of Brodgar and stopat the delightful Italian Chapel. This is a Birders’ tour, principally focused on finding and identifyingrare birds. We will have some time for cultural, historical and retail requests, but birding comes first.For a more general tour of North Ronaldsay & Orkney, we recommend our Orkney Island Explorer(p58) or Orkney in High Summer (p63) holidays. Total species c. 90. Number of centres: 2.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS NEW! Autumn in the Highlands with Easy Walking(p48), Twenty Scottish Specials (p49), Raptors &Grouse (p49), The Outer Limits Adventure (p50). SCOTTISH ISLANDS Shetland in Autumn for birders (p64), UnexploredOrkney (p65).

NORTH RONALDSAY AND ORKNEY in AUTUMN for birdersSAT 22 AUGUST – FRI 28 AUGUST (EARLY AUTUMN DEPARTURE)SAT 12 SEPTEMBER – FRI 18 SEPTEMBER, SAT 19 SEPTEMBER – FRI 25 SEPTEMBER

PRICE: £1595ppSingle supplement: £130. Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients per departure. Leader from our experienced team.

ORKNEY in HIGH SUMMER Westray, Hoy, Burray and both South and North Ronaldsay

SAT 18 JULY – SAT 25 JULY

PRICE: £1895ppSingle supplement: £150. Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients. Leader Mark Warren.

Combine with:SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSEagles, Divers & Dotterel (p46), Highlands & The BassRock (p47).



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This exciting holiday offers the chance to see a variety of rare and scarce migrantsamid spectacular scenery. We stay in two centres, one on Shetland Mainland, andone on Unst, Britain’s most northerly island, allowing us to spread our wings andlocate highly desirable rare birds more easily. We will cover all the key birdinglocations for autumn migration including the outer isles, if the weather and ferryavailability allow! Possibilities are almost endless, with American and Siberian birds coming throughon favourable winds, often at the same time! Previous goodies have included PallidHarrier, Surf Scoter, Little Auk, American Golden Plover, Buff-breasted, Spottedand 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, Rusticand Lapland Bunting. A real feast of birding! Exactly what turns up depends uponthe weather, so there are no guarantees, but we’ll try and find our own birds andtwitch good ones as we travel around the islands. If the wind is in the east, thenlarge falls of finches, thrushes and crests are also likely. Please note that this is a Birders tour, principally focused on finding and identifyingrare birds of our own, with frequent trips to see the rarities others have found. Wewill have some time for cultural, historical and retail requests, but birding comesfirst on this particular holiday. For those that want a more general tour ofShetland, we thoroughly recommend our Shetland Island Explorer (p57) or ourShetland and Orkney (p59) holiday. Total species c. 80. Number of centres:2.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Raptors & Grouse (p49), Outer Limits Adventure (p50),Highlands and Skye in Autumn (p50).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS North Ronaldsay & Orkney in Autumn for birders (p63).

SHETLAND in Autumn for birdersSAT 19 SEPTEMBER – SAT 26 SEPTEMBER, SAT 26 SEPTEMBER – SAT 3 OCTOBER

PRICE: £1745ppSingle supplement: £250* Deposit: £200ppPrice includes all ferries. Price excludes flight from Aberdeen, which Heatherlea can arrange atcost. Max 7 clients per leader. Leader from our experienced team.

*the single supplement can be reduced significantly if singles are willing to share a bathroomwith one other person for a limited part of the trip

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 and scarce migrantsmight include Grey, Phalarope, Pectoral and Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Dottereland American Golden Plover. This time of year is also excellent for rare passerinessuch as Barred Warbler, Rose-coloured Starling, Greenish Warbler, Red-backedShrike and Lapland Bunting.

The mouth-watering list of rarities found on these islands in recent times duringthis period includes Nearctic wanderers including Baird’s, White-rumped, Semi-palmated, Solitary, Spotted and Western Sandpiper (seen by our 2016 group),Lesser Yellowlegs, Ring-necked Duck, Snowy Owl, Glaucous Gull, Hawfinch,Common Rosefinch, Hoopoe, Sabine’s Gull, American Wigeon, Laughing Gull,Pacific Golden Plover and Britain’s first and only Purple Martin. We also investigateflocks of seaduck off Harris, where Surf Scoter might be found amongst thecommoner species.

Birding starts on Skye, perhaps with a Golden Eagle. On the ferry to Lochmaddyall four skuas are possible. Fulmar, Gannet, Black Guillemot and other auks can beexpected along with Storm Petrel, Manx and perhaps Sooty, Balearic or even GreatShearwater. The ferry through the Sound of Harris may produce divers at closequarters, both seals and White-tailed Eagle. Harris is stunning, and we bird scenicbays and iconic beaches before continuing through to Lewis. Here we visitTiumpan Head and the Butt of Lewis, and a network of shallow lochs, wader richbays and lochans. Even if migration is slow we have Golden and White-tailedEagle, Merlin, Hen Harrier, Short-eared Owl, rafts of seabirds, Eider, and divers tofind. Not forgetting Hebridean races of Song Thrush and Wren and key speciessuch as Corn Bunting, Twite and Rock Pipit. Our itinerary will be flexible and wemove around (within reason!) according to the best birding. Number of centres: 2.

OUTER HEBRIDES IN EARLY AUTUMN for birdersSAT 29 AUGUST – FRI 4 SEPTEMBER

PRICE: £1595ppSingle supplement: £95 Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients per leader. Leader from our experienced team.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS NEW! Autumn in the Highlands with Easy Walking (p48),Raptors & Grouse (p49). SCOTTISH ISLANDS, North Ronaldsay & Orkney in early Autumn for birders (p63).



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The Outer Hebrides are famous for rarities in autumn, and this is a real birders’treat as we seek wind-blown rarities at the best time of year. A good amount ofour time will be spent looking for rare birds, checking patches of cover, ditchesand gardens, whilst working through the flocks of waders, ducks or passerines,as many vagrants hide amongst their commoner cousins. Our recent finds haveincluded a good number of American vagrants following westerly gales, withWhite-rumped, Baird’s, Pectoral and Spotted Sandpipers, American GoldenPlover and Lesser Yellowlegs. Our best recent find has been a Red-eyed Vireo ina remote plantation!

If winds are from the east Yellow-browed Warbler, Rose-coloured Starling, ArcticRedpoll and Red-breasted Flycatcher occur annually. Almost anything is possiblehere, with incredibly rare birds recorded at this time in recent years includingWilson’s Warbler, Hermit Thrush, White’s Thrush, Buff-bellied, Pechora and Olive-backed Pipits, Least and Semi-palmated Sandpipers, Snowy Owl, Ovenbird andLong-billed Dowitcher. If migration is slow we will not be bored, with a superbresident list of Golden and White-tailed Eagles, Hen Harrier, Merlin and Twite,not forgetting Otters! Regular, expected migrants at this time of year include allthree divers, Long-tailed Duck and scoters, Snow Bunting, Jack Snipe and goodnumbers of Purple Sandpiper, Golden Plover and Sanderling, with WhooperSwans and Barnacle Geese arriving from the north.

With the Atlantic Ocean to scan, and The Minch to cross twice, we are sure topick up a good list of seabirds, which in recent years has included Sabine’s Gull,Sooty Shearwater and Pomarine Skua alongside the commoner petrels,shearwaters, auks and skuas. Cetaceans have included Minke Whale andCommon and Bottle-nosed Dolphins. Our exact itinerary is will be based onyour Guide’s judgement regarding wind, tide and recent sightings. With stunningautumnal light on the rugged landscape, we are sure of a memorable trip. Totalspecies c. 85. Number of centres: 2.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSOuter Limits Adventure (p50), Highlands and Skye in Autumn (p50). SCOTTISH ISLANDSUnexplored Orkney (p65), Coll and Tiree in Autumn for birders (p66).

OUTER HEBRIDES in AUTUMN for birdersSAT 3 OCTOBER – FRI 9 OCTOBER

PRICE: £1595ppSingle supplement: £95. Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients per leader. Leader from our experienced team.

An exploration of the more remote parts of the archipelago, focused on birdingwhile also enjoying some of the outstanding heritage of the islands. Birdingpossibilities are great, as early October is a rich time for southbound migrants, andlocal expertise gives us every chance of connecting with rare and scarce visitors.This exciting itinerary includes birding on Papa Westray and Sanday, remote andstunningly beautiful islands with huge potential, not previously available to birdinggroups. Most terrain is flat and easy to negotiate, while largely unrestricted accessallows us to ‘get off the beaten track’ and explore.

Our daily schedule may include sea-watching, with passing Sooty and ManxShearwaters, skuas, divers and auks possible. General birding might bring Pink-footed, Greylag and Barnacle Geese plus other wildfowl. Waders feature strongly,with coastal bays, beaches and harvested fields often full of birds, there willcertainly be plenty to look through in the hope of unearthing our own rarities!Raptors are very much a feature, with Hen Harrier, Merlin, Peregrine and Short-eared Owl the most likely. At this time, large numbers of thrushes will be on themove from Scandinavia, as will finches and warblers. Just about anything is possiblein the right conditions, and rarities vary each year depending on the prevailingwinds, though the location of the islands makes Orkney ideal to receive wanderingspecies from north, south, east and west – a brilliant birding experience.

As Orkneys reputation grows a number of rarities have been found in autumnrecently, including Siberian Accentor, Red-flanked Bluetail, Rustic and Little Bunting,Buff-breasted Sandpiper and American Golden Plover. On this holiday we spendtwo nights on Westray, giving time to fully cover the island, its habitats, and placesus in prime position to visit nearby Papa Westray where pioneering birding awaits.Orkney offers stunning scenery and historical interest, and we visit importantNeolithic sites on the mainland, and also the wonderfully well preserved Knap ofHowar on Papa Westray while the beaches on Sanday are among the best in Britain.No of centres: 2.

UNEXPLORED ORKNEYSAT 26 SEPTEMBER – FRI 2 OCTOBER

PRICE: £1745ppSingle supplement: £190. Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients. Leader from our experienced team..

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Outer Limits Adventure (p50), Highlands & Skye in Autumn (p50).

SCOTTISH ISLANDS Outer Hebrides in Autumn for birders (p65).



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Coll and Tiree lie on the outer, western edge of the Inner Hebrides, andtheir position makes them ideal for migrant birds. Northerly and westernmigrants take pride of place, though the islands also receive eastern falls,as birds migrating at altitude recognise these islands as their last availablelandfall before the Atlantic Ocean. The two islands are very different incharacter, with Coll being very rocky and windswept while Tiree offersa much gentler aspect with fertile crofts and rich grazing. They are veryunder-watched but have a formidable track record of rarities, and Tireehas become one of the best places in the UK to catch up with rare andscarce waders. Scotland's fifth Brown Shrike, Baird’s, White-rumped, Semi-palmated, Buff-breasted and Pectoral Sandpiper, Cedar Waxwing andScotland's first Northern Parula, have all turned up on Tiree in past years. Other exciting birds recorded on the islands in the last few years haveincluded Blyth’s Reed Warbler, Citrine Wagtail, Buff-bellied Pipit, Yellow-browed Warbler and Common Rosefinch. Nearctic American GoldenPlover, American Wigeon, Ring-necked Duck and Green-winged Teal areall regular, and seawatching can be very rewarding, perhaps including GreyPhalarope, Pomarine Skua and Sooty Shearwater, as well as good numbersof Great and Arctic Skua and Manx Shearwater.Flocks of Fieldfare and Redwing should be present, along with Brambling,Blackbird and Robin on migration, perhaps with an exotic rarity presenttoo! Peregrine, Merlin, Hen Harrier, Raven Hooded Crow and flocks ofTwite and Linnet are also likely, and we will watch for migrating SnowBunting, Lapland Bunting and other passerines.Walking will be easy, and most birding can be done from our vehicle ornearby. There will be optional walks for those who wish to join them.Total species c. 75. Number of centres: 2.

Combine with:SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlands and Skye in Autumn (p50), Highland Autumn birding (p51). SCOTTISH ISLANDS Outer Hebrides in Autumn for birders (p65).

COLL AND TIREE in AUTUMN for birdersSUN 11 OCTOBER – SAT 17 OCTOBER

PRICE: £1645ppSingle supplement: £225 Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients. Leader Toby Green.

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

Chough breed on Islay, and we should see them floating on thebreeze at very close quarters. Other regulars include Twite andSnow Bunting. We search for three diver species, Black Guillemotand other auks, and ducks with numbers of Scaup, Eider andperhaps a few Long-tailed and Common Scoter. We watch forlocal Golden and White-tailed Eagle and also present are HenHarrier, Peregrine and regular Merlin. Waders include GoldenPlover, Curlew, Lapwing, Oystercatcher, Dunlin, Ringed Plover,Turnstone, Sanderling and a few Purple Sandpiper, with thechance of American rarities. Jura is well worth a visit for thescenery alone and is renowned for its population of Red Deerand we search for Otter along the coastline. c. 80. Number ofcentres: 1.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSHighlands and Skye in Autumn (p50).

ISLAY AND JURA SAT 17 OCTOBER – THURS 22 OCTOBER

PRICE: £1495ppSingle supplement: £120 Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients. Leader from our experienced team.


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What’s included in each holiday

✔ comfortable en-suite accommodation. Any exceptions will beidentified in advance. We choose from our personally inspected shortlist,where birders are welcome, and the hospitality is special. Guests are neverexpected to share. Full details with your joining pack.

✔ all meals from dinner on arrival, including packed lunches, untilbreakfast on the final day.

✔ all ferries and other access fees as stated in the detailed itinerary.Travel to the joining point has been carefully considered for yourconvenience, details on our website.

✔ the services of your Heatherlea Guide.

To read a Heatherlea ‘Tour pack’ with more information please visit ourwebsite or ask our office for a printed copy.

Heatherlea offer a few carefully selected holidays around the Britishmainland, from the east coast of Scotland to Cornwall, and onwardto the Scillies. We explore remote, little-known corners wherebirding is excellent, and all are ideal for birders and general wildlifeenthusiasts alike, of any level of experience Everyone is welcome!

Each holiday has a maximum number of seven clients per guide. Thismeans more personal attention, and more time with your Guide tohelp you get the best possible sightings. Heatherlea is a smallcompany run BY birders FOR birders, where our clients really docome first. Come and see!

This is an opportunity to enjoy some of the best winter birding in England, aswe search for elusive and sought-after forest species along with winteringwaders and wildfowl in estuary and wetland locations. Rewarding birding inthree fascinating and very different habitats in the south-west of England.

In the Forest of Dean during February and early March, resident Hawfinchnumbers are boosted by continental wintering birds. They favour a smallnumber of favourite feeding places, thereby increasing our chances of seeingthem. The Forest also holds perhaps the highest density of Goshawk in thecountry, and the birds will be starting to display at this time of year. The Forestof Dean also supports probably the largest population of free-living Wild Boarin the country and this is the best place to see them.

In the Somerset Levels we look for wintering wildfowl and wetland species,including Bittern, Water Rail, Marsh Harrier, thousands of wintering duck, Little& Great White Egret, Pochard, Shoveler, Gadwall, Teal and Goldeneye amongstmany others. We also seek the Common Cranes which frequent the area, andthe UK's largest Starling roost with up to a million birds which may go into theirmesmerising murmuration, a truly unforgettable experience! This holiday startsin Gloucester and ends in Bridgewater. Number of centres: 2.

FOREST of DEAN AND THE SOMERSET LEVELS

SAT 22 FEBRUARY – SAT 29 FEBRUARY, SAT 29 FEBRUARY – SAT 7 MARCH

PRICE: £1795ppSingle supplement: £185 Deposit: £200ppMax 12 clients. Leader John Picton, joined by Barry Embling with more than 7 clients.



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Sheltered harbours, huge tracts of downland, the bird-rich Arun Valley, WestSussex commons and surrounding woodland, the wild Dungeness peninsula, RyeReserve, gravel pits and the open sea, this area has a huge amount to offer thebirder in winter.

We target wildfowl, waders, passerines, raptors and more in quiet birdinglocations, where highlights will be numerous and may include Bewick's Swan,Smew, Bittern coming to roost, Cattle and Great Egret, Spoonbill, Avocet, GoldenPlover, Knot, Sanderling, Jack Snipe, both godwits, Whimbrel, Spotted Redshank,Greenshank and Green Sandpiper, large gatherings (100+) of Mediterranean Gull,with perhaps Glaucous and Iceland Gull too. The sea can teem with birds, andthere’s much potential for Long-tailed Duck, both Scoters, all three divers,Slavonian Grebe, Razorbill, Guillemot, Gannet, Kittiwake, Fulmar and more besidesafter winter storms.

There is plenty of prey for raptors and owls, so we have good chances of seeingHen Harrier, Red Kite, Peregrine, Merlin, Short-eared, Barn and Little Owl, plusRaven too. We may find Great Grey Shrike, while winter finch flocks can contain

NEW! WEST SUSSEX AND KENT IN WINTERSAT 1 FEBRUARY – SAT 8 FEBRUARY

PRICE: £1595ppSingle supplement: £195 Deposit: £200ppMax group size 7. Leader Bernie Forbes.

One of the UK’s premier winter destinations. East Anglia offers a high species list and superb wildlife encounters arelikely. We spread our time between established reserves and visit lesser known sites away from the beaten track.

With an established, local population, Bittern will be a top target, and we also hope to see Common Crane feedingalongside Whooper and Bewick’s Swan and later when they come to roost. Geese, with vast wintering numberswill feature, and we spend time searching the Pink-footed and Dark-bellied Brent flocks for Taiga and TundraBean, White-fronted (both races), Barnacle, Black Brant or something rarer. Dusk flights will be a true spectacle,not to be missed too! A variety of sea-duck, divers, grebes and auks make for excellent sea-watching, while inrougher conditions storm driven species might include Little Auk, skuas (Great and Pomarine) or perhaps GreyPhalarope.

Internationally important tidal estuaries support large numbers of Knot and Dunlin, though Avocet, Golden andGrey Plover, Spotted Redshank, Purple Sandpiper and a number of others are likely too. Twite, Snow Bunting,Water Pipit, Shorelark, Bearded Tit, Dartford Warbler and Cetti’s Warbler may be among the passerine highlightsand recent rarities have included Great Grey Shrike, Parrot Crossbill, Hume’s and Pallas’s Warbler and Arctic Redpoll– will we be lucky?! On a visit to the Becks we target Brambling, Woodlark, Hawfinch, Crossbill and more. Henand Marsh Harrier, Rough-legged Buzzard, Peregrine, Merlin, Goshawk, five owl species and Otter are all possibleat many sites too! Total species c. 100+. Number of centres: 2.

NEW! NORFOLK AND SUFFOLK IN WINTERSAT 8 FEBRUARY – SAT 15 FEBRUARY

PRICE: £1395ppSingle supplement: £140 Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients per leader. Leader Toby Green with Mark Warren if more than 7 clients.

Autumn sees fascinating migration to the wetlands of north-west England, and atLeighton Moss, Morecambe Bay, the Ribble Estuary and Martin Mere wherewildfowl and waders dominate. These include Whooper Swan, Great and LittleEgret, Pink-footed and Greylag Goose, Ruff, Black- and Bar-tailed Godwit, Gadwall,Pintail, flocks of Wigeon and Teal, and maybe an occasional American Wigeon,and Red-breasted Merganser and Eider feature offshore. Raptors include Peregrine,Merlin, Marsh and Hen Harrier, and wintering woodland passerines include MarshTit, Nuthatch, Tree Sparrow, Lesser Redpoll and Siskin. Fieldfare and Redwingexploit berry crops, and Twite, Cetti’s Warbler and Kingfisher are in exposedstretches or marginal wetland. We may find Waxwing or other Scandinavianmigrants including Brambling.

Based near Lancaster, we are within walking distance of the River Conder, which

NEW! LANCASHIRE IN LATE AUTUMNTUES 19 NOVEMBER – FRI 22 NOVEMBER 2019TUES 17 NOVEMBER – FRI 20 NOVEMBER 2020

PRICE (2019): £895ppSingle supplement: £120 Deposit: £200pp Max 7 clients. Leader Ian Ford.

Brambling or scarce Hawfinch. There is a high density of Grey Partridge, andwintering Firecrest, Chiffchaff, Black Redstart and Snow Bunting may be found inhabitat. Other specialities of the area include Dartford Warbler, roosting Long-eared Owl (scarce), Bearded Tit, Kingfisher, Water Rail and Goshawk as they beginto display, while rarities can include Caspian Gull, Siberian Chiffchaff and more.Number of centres: 2.

winds towards the mouth of the much larger River Lune a few hundred yards awayfrom our hotel, and Greenshank, Shelduck and waders change places daily. Wevisit key tidal locations of Glasson on the south of the Lune estuary, andspectacular Sunderland Point on the north, where tidal flooding of the onlyaccess road means excellent birding, but we have to plan our visit very carefully!We visit reserves managed by RSPB, WWT and Lancashire Wildlife Trust, and allare supported by our visits, as your entry fee is included if not already a member.Number of centres: 1.



Summer wildlife in one of the most picturesque and unspoilt parts of England.This slow-paced single-centre holiday takes in the highlights of the coast, islands,uplands, farmland and forest of this beautiful region, with a range of birds andwildlife and visits to iconic cultural and historical sites.

On this summer tour of the avian delights of his home county, join NorthumbrianRob to find around 100 northern species as we explore;

✔ The Farne Islands, with huge colonies of Puffin, Eider, Shag, terns, Guillemot,Razorbill, Kittiwake and Atlantic Grey Seal.

✔ Cheviot Hill Valleys, where the upland scenery and habitat contain Dipper,Common Sandpiper, Grey Wagtail, Raven, Ring Ousel, Wheatear, Whinchat,Buzzard and Wild Goats.

✔ The Holy Island of Lindisfarne, land of history and saints, peace and solitude,mudflats and waders, walks, flowers and butterflies.

NORTHUMBERLAND IN HIGH SUMMERIncluding the Farnes, Coquet Island, Lindisfarne and Kielder Forest

SAT 20 JUNE – SAT 27 JUNE

PRICE £1695ppSingle supplement £165. Deposit £200ppMax 14 clients. Leader Rob Jordan, joined by Mike Coleman with more than 7 clients.

An underwatched corner of the UK, providing an importantfilter for southbound migrants. October is one of the besttimes to visit, and extensive knowledge of birding hotspotsand hidden places give us a great chance of a sizeable list.Much of our birding will be spent around West Penwith, apeninsula ideally placed with beautiful valley habitats andrugged coastline. Sheltered valleys such as Porthgwarra, Cot and Nanquidno are top sites, and we alsovisit Hayle Estuary, Marazion Marsh and Drift Reservoir, venturing later in the week (or if a rarity is found)to the Lizard Peninsula.

Birding is very exciting, anything is possible! Africa-bound passerines can include a variety of warblers,Firecrest, Black Redstart, flycatchers, finch, lark and pipit flocks. We might find Wryneck, Red-backed orWoodchat Shrike, Red-breasted Flycatcher or something even rarer. Recent examples include Red-eyedVireo, Hermit Thrush, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Alder Flycatcher and in 2018, Britain’s 2nd Grey Catbird!American Golden Plover, Pectoral and Buff-breasted Sandpiper turn up annually as do several species ofAmerican wildfowl. Scarce seabirds might include Sabine’s Gull, Leach’s Petrel, Grey Phalarope, and largershearwaters, and our boat trip out into Mounts Bay will give us the chance of great views.

Steeped in birding folklore, the Isles of Scilly are one of the ‘must visit’ places in the UK, afabulous place to be when birds are on the move. In prime position to receive migrants andstorm-driven vagrants the roll call of ‘megas’ is a huge, including Blyth’s Pipit, Dusky Thrush,Caspian Stonechat, Pallid Swift, Red-flanked Bluetail, Red-eyed Vireo, Eastern Yellow Wagtail,Sora, American Herring Gull, Caspian Tern and Britain’s second Pale-legged/Sakhalin LeafWarbler. Heatherlea clients have enjoyed some great rarities from all directions on ourprevious trips and we’ll be hoping for something special again!

Prevailing weather dictates which birds arrive, no year is the same. General birding will usuallyproduce up to 100 species from seabirds to waders, wildfowl and gulls. We hope to see plentyof passerines and land-birds plus ‘regular’ scarcities. It’s a holiday where truly anything ispossible! We will be especially flexible, and our daily activities depend largely on up to datebird news. We will do our best to follow up on sightings as and when they happen, but at thesame time choose a different island to explore daily, so we see as much of the Scillies as

✔ RSPB Saltholme and Derwent Valley, where Avocet, Water Rail, Yellow Wagtail,terns, migrants, Red Kite, woodland birds, and a mixed-industrial landscape arefound.

✔ Coquet Island and the Northumberland coast with Roseate, Little and ArcticTern, Kittiwake colonies and unspoilt beaches.

✔ Kielder Forest & Hadrian’s Wall, with iconic scenery, Ospreys and the raptorwatchpoint.

possible. Our guides are experienced here, selecting the best times tobirdwatch on St Mary’s, St Agnes, Tresco, St Martin’s and Bryher.Number of centres: 1.

Can be combined with West Cornwall in Autumn (above).

Our schedule will be based on up-to-date local bird news andof course the weather. We won’t need to travel much as greatbirding is right on our doorstep! Number of centres: 1.

This holiday can be combined with our ‘Isles of Scilly for birders’holiday (below).

WEST CORNWALL IN AUTUMNFRI 2 OCTOBER – FRI 9 OCTOBER

PRICE: £1495ppSingle supplement: £150 Deposit: £200ppMax group size 7. Leader Mark Warren.

ISLES OF SCILLY for birdersSAT 10 OCTOBER – SAT 17 OCTOBER

PRICE £1795ppSingle supplement: £200 Deposit: £200ppMax 14 clients with leader Mark Warren, joined by another from our team with over 7 clients.

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We explore the breadth of southern Scotland, visiting sites from Dumfries andGalloway in the west, through Clyde and Forth to Lothian and the Borders, allexcellent in winter! The Solway Firth is exceptional for wildfowl including possiblyall UK geese. Other highlights include Red Kite at a feeding station, searching forGolden Eagle and Goshawk in the Hills, Merlin, Peregrine, Hen Harrier and Short-eared Owl on the grasslands and moors.

The Lothian coastline offers top quality birding at Musselburgh, Aberlady Bay andTyninghame to name a few. Renowned for wildfowl, wader and seabird spectacles,and Red and Black-necked Grebe, Surf Scoter, Horned Lark, Water Pipit, BlackRedstart, Waxwing and Great Grey Shrike are all very possible. Other delights mayinclude Barn Owl, Red and Black Grouse, Willow Tit, Long-tailed Duck, BlackGuillemot, Slavonian Grebe, and a Starling murmuration. Estimating 110+ species,this is a great time and holiday to get your yearlist off to a flying start.

This comprehensive tour takes you to many rewarding places and sites we willplan to visit include WWT Caerlaverock, RSPB Mersehead, Ken Dee Marshes andSkinflats reserves, Loch Ryan, Luce Bay, the Galloway Forest and hills, Loch Ken,

SOUTHERN SCOTLAND – COAST TO COASTTHURS 23 JANUARY – THURS 30 JANUARY

PRICE: £1595ppSingle supplement: £175 Deposit: £200pp Max 7 clients per leader. Leader Ian Ford.

A tour of Scotland's east coast from Loch of Strathbeg to East Neuk of Fife includingMontrose Basin, Lunan Bay and Ythan Estuary. Excellent birding from glen to opensea, as resident specialities are joined by flocks of migrants. Rarities occur each year,and unexpected duck, gull, goose and passerine species will almost certainly crossour path.

Substantial geese flocks should hold Pink-footed, Barnacle and Greylag, and alsoWhite-fronted and Brent, and we check for Taiga and Tundra Bean, Red-breasted,Snow and Ross's Goose. Regular gulls include Glaucous and Iceland, and perhapsIvory and Ross's Gull if we are lucky. On the sea, large flocks of Common and VelvetScoter often contain a single Surf, and King Eider are sometimes found too. Green-winged Teal, American Wigeon and Smew are possible, as are Red-necked Grebeand divers, and wader numbers will be significant, with Purple Sandpiper, Black-tailedGodwit and perhaps American rarities in our sights.

Residents include Hawfinch, Bittern, Snow Bunting, Twite, Grey Partridge and CornBunting, though our most memorable birding inland may be in Angus Glens, where

BIRDING THE EAST COAST IN AUTUMNSAT 2 NOVEMBER – SAT 9 NOVEMBER 2019 SAT 31 OCTOBER – SAT 7 NOVEMBER 2020

PRICE (2019): £1495ppSingle supplement: £175 Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients. Leader Toby Green.

A vast, internationally important area for wildfowl, the Solway Firth offers great birding at this timeof year as we enjoy flocks of Barnacle, Pink-footed and Greenland White-fronted Geese. Great raptorwatching beckons, particularly of Hen Harrier and Red Kite. Waders, ducks and much more includinggood numbers of wintering Whooper Swan and a local population of Willow Tit (scarce in Scotland)will also feature. We will take you to Caerlaverock, Loch Ken and Ken Dee Marshes to see geese in tensof thousands, as numbers peak in mid-November. Rarities may include Red-breasted or Snow Goose,and Whooper Swan, Pintail, Gadwall, Golden Plover, Merlin and Peregrine are all regular at these greatsites.

The local Red Kite feeding station has viewing areas and a hide, and birds can be seen soaring, perchedand flying in to be fed. Elsewhere we search for Hen Harrier, Golden Eagle and perhaps Barn Owl.Waders and seaduck are present in large numbers, and we visit key places such as Luce Bay, Loch Ryan,the Nith estuary and the Wig to collect Common Scoter, Long-tailed Duck, Slavonian Grebe, PurpleSandpiper, and many more. Five nights in a very comfortable hotel, during this perfect late-autumnbreak. Total species c. 90. This holiday starts and ends in Dumfries. Number of centres: 1.

SOLWAY FIRTHSAT 7 NOVEMBER – THURS 12 NOVEMBER 2020

PRICE: £1395ppSingle supplement: £100 Deposit: £200ppMax 7 clients per leader. Leader Ian Ford.

John Muir Country Park, Dunbar, Barns Ness, Skateraw, Torness, Thorntonloch, StAbb’s and Eyemouth. Number of centres: 2.

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSBirders Blast (p39), Short Break in Winter (p39).

Combine with: SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSBirders Blast (p39).

Golden Eagle, Black Grouse and Red Grouse will be targets. There are chances forWhite-tailed Eagle and Mammals might include Otter, and perhaps newly residentEuropean Beaver. Number of centres: 4.

Combine with:SCOTTISH HIGHLANDSShort Breaks in Autumn (p39), Highland Autumn Birding (p51). REST OF THE UKSolway Firth (p70).


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Full Name(s) ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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OUR SERVICE TO MAKESURE OF YOUR COMFORT

When you complete and sign theBooking Form, we will confirm inwriting within seven days of receipt.At this time our Terms andConditions become effective. We will also ask about diets (yourspecific dietary requirements arewelcome at Heatherlea).

HEATHERLEA 2020 HOLIDAY BOOKING FORM

Please return this form when complete to HEATHERLEA BIRDWATCHING, THE MOUNTVIEW HOTEL, NETHY BRIDGE, INVERNESS-SHIRE PH25 3EB

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amount is identified on relevant holiday page. (Cheques to ‘Heatherlea’ please).

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SVALBARDWho to go with? Heatherlea work with an exceptionally good boat operator,include flights from airports around the UK, and add our own experiencednaturalists to the resident Expedition Team. We know how to make this tourthe best it can be! Our next full visit will be in spring 2021, and will be timedjust right for birding and bears, walrus and pack ice. We also hope to offer abrief optional extension in Oslo, so you can see the city and do some briefbirding for key northern species including owls and grouse.

NORTH AMERICAIn the next few years we will visit Alaska, British Columbia, Texas, Florida andNew York, plus special tours focused on migration and seeing all theAmerican warbler species. Yellowstone and Arizona will also feature!

CENTRAL AMERICA/CARIBBEANPanama, Mexico, Jamaica, Cuba, Puerto Rica and a relaxing ‘winter birding andsunshine’ tour to St Lucia will all be included over the next two to threeyears. More detail from our office!

SOUTH AMERICAWe will alternate tours which are already very popular, such as NorthernPeru (for birders) and Southern Peru (including Machu Picchu), and add somenew ideas including the Atlantic coast of Brazil and new itineraries inColombia, Ecuador and Chile. A wealth of birding awaits!

EUROPEOur Spanish tours continue to expand, watch out for short breaks to EbroDelta and Pyrenees. We are also planning more ‘birds and butterflies’ tours,birding visits to Georgia, Poland and a return to Lesvos! Our specialphotographic tour to Finland departs in January 2020, and for those whowant to add a city break anywhere in Europe to any birding holiday, askabout our new ‘European Hub’ scheme, where we plan everything for youunder our ATOL Licence.

AFRICA/MIDDLE EASTOur range continues to expand, and we are currently working on Namibia,South Africa and Oman for 2021/22. With several Kenyan tours in 2020,plus Gambia, Ghana, Uganda and Tanzania, and a revamped Morocco tour,our African range is expanding rapidly.

ASIA/AUSTRALASIANew destinations on our radar include Thailand, Taiwan, an Indonesianadventure including Comodo Dragons (but not before 2021 due to islandclosure), and two-destination ‘Grand Tours’ tours in Australia allowing youto add on longer stays to visit family.

We also have exciting additions nearer to home, here are some we arecurrently developing:

WALESFrom Angelsey to Skomer, there is a great deal to explore, with seabirds,flycatchers, warblers, raptors and both resident and migrant specialities.You won’t be surprised to hear that this may eventually be two holidays,not one!

WILD DEVONFeaturing the Exe estuary, both north and south Devon coastlines, Exmoor,Dartmoor and a day trip to Lundy Island. Includes Cirl Bunting, DartfordWarbler and a big list of wildlife.

NEW HOLIDAYS for 2021 and onwards ...Sounds a long way ahead? We are already planning exciting new tours! Here is just a taster, more detail available shortly ….



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HEATHERLEA 2020 HOLIDAY CALENDARDATES SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS SCOTTISH ISLANDS OVERSEAS

and rest of the UK

Sat 28 Dec 2019 – Hogmanay Birding FestivalSat 4 Jan 20204 Jan – 11 Jan New Year Birdlist Booster Gambia

Fri 10 Jan – Fri 17 Jan11 Jan – 18 Jan New Year Birdlist Booster Spain – Birding and Lynx

Sat 11 Jan – Sat 18 Jan Costa Rica Classic TourSat 11 Jan – Sun 26 Jan

18 Jan – 22 Jan Birders Blast22 Jan – 26 Jan Southern Scotland Coast to Coast NEW! Up Helly AA – Shetland in Winter Uganda

Thu 23 Jan – Thu 30 Jan Sat 25 Jan – Fri 31 Jan Sat 25 Jan – Sat 8 Feb26 Jan – 30 Jan Short Breaks winter Sweden for birders30 Jan – 3 Feb NEW! West Sussex in Winter Sat 1 Feb – Thurs 6 Feb

Sat 1 Feb – Sat 8 Feb Kenya – Birding the Rift ValleySun 2 Feb – Tue 11 Feb

3 Feb – 7 Feb Birders Blast NEW! Ghana7 Feb – 11 Feb NEW! Norfolk and Suffolk in Winter Fri 7 Feb – Thurs 20 Feb

Sat 8 Feb – Sat 15 Feb

11 Feb – 15 Feb Birders Blast15 Feb – 22 Feb Highland Winter Birding22 Feb – 29 Feb Highland Winter Birding Canaries

Forest of Dean and Somerset Levels Sat 22 Feb – Sat 29 FebSat 22 Feb – Sat 29 Feb NEW! Czech Republic- South Moravia

Thurs 27 Feb – Sun 1 Mar29 Feb – 7 March Highlands and the East Coast Mull and Islay India – Birds, Tigers & Taj Mahal

Forest of Dean and Somerset Levels Sat 29 Feb – Fri 6 Mar Mon 2 Mar – Thurs 12 MarSat 29 Feb – Sat 7 Mar

7 March – 14 March Highlands and the West Coast CamargueSat 7 Mar – Sat 14 MarNepalWed 11 Mar – Wed 25 Mar

14 March – 21 March Highland Birding in March21 March – 28 March Highland Birding in March Morocco

Sat 21 Mar – Tues 31 Mar28 March – 4 April Spring into Scotland inc Mull NEW! Italy – Po Delta & Rome

Wed 1 Apr – Wed 8 Apr4 April – 11 April Spring into Scotland inc Mull Costa Rica: Birding Tour

Sat 4 Apr – Sun 19 Apr 11 April – 18 April Spring into Scotland inc MullEaster Sunday 12 April18 April – 25 April Highlands and Skye Mallorca

Sat 18 Apr – Sat 25 AprSpain – ExtremaduraSat 18 Apr – Sat 25 AprSkyrosWed 22 Apr – Wed 29 AprSpain – Catalonia and south-east AragonWed 22 Apr – Thurs 30 AprTrinidad, Tobago and St LuciaThu 23 Apr – Tue 5 May

25 April – 2 May Highlands and Skye North Ron and Orkney in Spring Portugal in SpringSat 25 Apr – Fri 1 May Sat 25 Apr – Sat 2 May

NEW! Arizona & the Grand CanyonTues 28 Apr – Tues 12 May

2 May – 9 May Birding the Highlands in May North Ron and Orkney in Spring BelarusSat 2 May – Fri 8 May Sat 2 May – Sat 9 MayOuter Hebrides in Spring ArmeniaSat 2 May – Fri 8 May Sat 2 May – Wed 13 May

9 May – 16 May Birding the Highlands in May Outer Hebrides in Spring Bulgaria and Northern GreeceSat 9 May – Fri 15 May Sat 9 May – Mon 18 MayShetland in Spring EstoniaSat 9 May – Sat 16 May Mon 11 May – Mon 18 MayMull, Iona and the Treshnish Isles NEW! Grand Tour of Finland & NorwayTue 12 May – Sat 16 May Fri 15 May – Thurs 28 May

Finland & Northern NorwayFri 15 May – Wed 20 May

16 May – 23 May Highlands and Corncrake Orkney and Flow Country Finland – Late Spring BirdingNEW! Birding the North Coast 500 Sat 16 May – Sat 23 May Wed 20 May – Tues 26 MaySat 16 May – Sat 23 May Shetland Island Explorer

Sat 16 May – Sat 23 May23 May – 30 May Highlands and Corncrake Shetland Island Explorer NEW! Spain for Birds and Butterflies

Sat 23 May – Sat 30 May Sat 23 May – Fri 29 MayIslands on the EdgeSat 23 May – Sat 30 May

30 May – 6 June High Season across the Highlands Orkney Island ExplorerSat 30 May – Sat 6 JuneSouthern HebridesSun 31 May – Sat 6 June

6 June – 13 June Highlands and Orkney Islands on the Edge NEW! Kenya & TanzaniaSat 6 June – Sat 13 June Sun 7 June – Fri 19 June

AustriaWed 10 June – Tue 16 June

13 June – 20 June The Outer Limits in Summer Shetland and Orkney NEW! China – The Tibetan PlateauSat 13 June – Sun 21 June Sat 13 June – Tues 30 JuneInner HebridesFri 19 June – Fri 26 June



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DATES SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS SCOTTISH ISLANDS OVERSEASand rest of the UK

20 June – 27 June The Outer Limits in SummerNorthumberland in High SummerSat 20 June – Sat 27 June

27 June – 4 July Highland Wildlife Outer Hebrides and the ShiantsNEW! Highlands and the Isle of May Sat 27 June – Fri 3 July

4 July – 11 July Eagles, Divers and Dotterel Ultimate Outer HebridesSat 4 July – Mon 13 JulySt Kilda and the HebridesFri 10 July – Fri 17 July

11 July – 18 July Eagles, Divers and Dotterel Coll and Tiree in Summer Brazil – The PantanalMon 13 July – Sat 18 July Sat 11 July – Thurs 23 JulyNEW! Hebridean Island CruiseWed 15 July – Wed 22 July

18 July – 25 July Highlands and Wester Ross Orkney in High Summer Iceland in SummerSat 18 July – Sat 25 July Mon 20 July – Mon 27 July

25 July – 1 August Highlands and the Bass Rock YellowstoneSat 25 July – Mon 7 Aug

1 Aug – 8 Aug Highlands and the Outer Hebs8 Aug – 15 Aug Highlands and the Outer Hebs15 Aug – 22 Aug NEW! Autumn in the Highlands

with Easy Walking15 Aug – 19 Aug Short Break in Early Autumn19 Aug – 23 Aug22 Aug – 29 Aug NEW! Autumn in the Highlands North Ronaldsay and Orkney in Early Ireland for birders

with Easy Walking Autumn Sat 22 Aug – Sat 29 Aug23 Aug – 27 Aug Short Break in Early Autumn Sat 22 Aug – Fri 28 Aug Spain – Picos Mountains

Fri 28 Aug – Fri 4 Sept29 Aug – 5 Sept Twenty Scottish Specials Outer Hebrides in Early Autumn Ireland for birders

Sat 29 Aug – Fri 4 Sept Sat 29 Aug – Sat 5 Sept5 Sept – 12 Sept Raptors & Grouse Bulgaria in Autumn

Sat 5 Sep – Sat 12 SepSpain – AndaluciaSat 5 Sept – Sat 12 Sept

12 Sept – 19 Sept The ‘Outer Limits’ Adventure North Ron and Orkney in Autumn Ecuador and GalapagosRaptors & Grouse Sat 12 Sept – Fri 18 Sept Mon 14 Sep – Tues 6 Oct

19 Sept – 26 Sept The ‘Outer Limits’ Adventure North Ron and Orkney in AutumnSat 19 Sept – Fri 25 Sept Shetland in AutumnSat 19 Sept – Sat 26 Sept

26 Sept – 3 Oct The ‘Outer Limits’ Adventure Unexplored Orkney Hungary in AutumnSat 26 Sept – Fri 2 Oct Thurs 1 Oct – Thurs 8 Oct

West Cornwall in Autumn Shetland in AutumnFri 2 Oct – Fri 9 Oct Sat 26 Sept – Sat 3 Oct

3 Oct – 10 Oct Highlands and Skye in Autumn Outer Hebrides in AutumnSat 3 Oct – Fri 9 Oct

10 Oct – 17 Oct Highlands and Skye in Autumn Coll and Tiree in AutumnIsles of Scilly Sun 11 Oct – Sat 17 OctSat 10 Oct – Sat 17 Oct

17 Oct – 24 Oct Highland Autumn Birding Islay and Jura Peru – Southern Birding and Machu Sat 17 Oct – Thu 22 Oct Picchu

Sat 17 Oct – Sun 1 Nov24 Oct – 31 Oct Highland Autumn Birding NEW! Colombia

Sat 24 Oct – Sun 8 Nov31 Oct – 4 Nov Short Breaks in Autumn Costa Rica Classic Tour - PLUS!

Birding the East Coast in autumnTues 3 Nov – Sat 21 Nov

Sat 31 Oct – Sat 7 Nov NEW! Kenya – Masai Mara Short BreakWed 4 Nov – Tues 10 Nov

4 Nov – 8 Nov Birders Blast

8 Nov – 12 Nov Short Breaks in Autumn NEW! QueenslandSat 12 Nov – Mon 23 Nov

Solway Firth NEW! ‘Grand Tour ‘of Queensland, Sat 7 Nov – Thu 12 Nov S.E Australia & Tasmania

Sat 12 Nov – Tues 8 Dec12 Nov – 16 Nov Birders Blast India –Goa, from the Kancun Coast to the

Western GhatsFri 13 Nov – Sat 28 NovBelize & the Yucatan PeninsulaSun 15 Nov – Sat 28 Nov

16 Nov – 21 Nov NEW! LancashireTues 17 Nov – Fri 20 Nov

21 Nov – 28 Nov NEW! VietnamMon 23 Nov – Sat 12 DecTasmania & South Eastern AustraliaSat 21 Nov – Tues 8 Dec

28 Nov – 5 Dec Tues 29 Dec 2020 – Tues 5 Jan 2021 Hogmanay Birding Festival


HeatherleaThe Mountview HotelNethy BridgeInverness-shire PH25 3EB

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Tel: 01479 821248website: www.heatherlea.co.ukemail: [email protected]: @heatherleabirds facebook: heatherleabirdwatching

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



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