Wild Intrigue Expeditions DRAFT

Guest Article
We learnt how to track using sound as well as
sight. When the sun had set and we were making
our way across the field back to the house a
peculiar sound made us stop and listen. Heather
silently told us they were snipe (Gallinago
gallinago), which made the extraordinary
winnowing noise with their tail feathers.
Although we never saw them, they must have
been wheeling around our heads, as the noise
reverberated in every direction. Amongst the
snipe’s commotion, we also heard the distant
calls of a tawny owl and a cuckoo.
Perhaps the most exciting moment came when
we were sitting in a hide watching the seals. I
was just admiring the hills of the mainland when
I noticed a black speck in the sky.
So, what did you think of your Expedition?
"I had a fantastic experience on the Isle
of Carna, all thanks to Wild Intrigue
Expeditions. Being surrounded by
people just as passionate about wildlife
as me was a real treat. I learnt a great
deal about British birds, mammals and
invertebrates; I would highly
recommend the experience to anyone
wanting to improve their knowledge of
British nature. We got the chance to
use professional tracking equipment
and saw some incredible species for the
first time. Although only fleeting, our
golden eagle sighting was a real
highlight. If I had the opportunity, I
wouldn't hesitate to go again."
- Rebecca
Binoculars up in an instant, I spied what I
hoped and prayed to be an eagle. The three of
us gazed up at the mystery visitor and
deliberated over eagle or buzzard. Moments
later Cain came running out of the bluebell
wood to tell us a white­tailed eagle (Haliaeetus
albicilla) was swooping overhead, so our
suspicions were confirmed. Giddy with
excitement, we watched the ‘flying barn door’
glide through the sky, barely moving its
gigantic wings. This was my first eagle sighting
and I was thrilled.
FOLLOW REBECCA'S JOURNEY
Rebecca is an aspiring and talented
wildife photojournalist, follow her
journey through her blog, available
via:
www.rebeccagibsonwildlifeblog.
wordpress.com