Birdwatching the Deeside area of Grampian

Ordnance Survey Landranger maps for this area:

Nos. 43, 44.


Forest of Birse (NO 51 90, Map 44)


The Forest of Birse, south of the village of Aboyne, is an area of primarily grouse-moor. As with many areas in Scotland termed "forests" there is very little if any signs of the original trees, but along the single track road leading into the area are some reasonable stands of mixed deciduous woodland and some pine. Birse's main attraction, especially in the spring, are raptors. As well as several Peregrines and Merlins, visitors also stand a reasonable chance of seeing Hen Harrier, Buzzard and Golden Eagle, as well as the much commoner Sparrowhawk and Kestrel.
Also in the area in summer are Stonechat, Whinchat, Golden Plover and of course Red and Black Grouse.
From Aboyne take the road south and cross the river Dee, then head towards the village of Finzean (pronounced Fing-an).

Dinnet Oakwood (NO 42 98, Map 44)


Dinnet Oakwood is a National Nature Reserve representing a remnant of the ancient deciduous forest which covered much of lowland Scotland at one time. The Oakwood lies to the north of the village of Dinnet, which is on the main road between Aboyne and Ballater on the banks of the River Dee. As well as being a hotspot for other kinds of wildlife, the reserve comes into its own for birds in spring, especially at around 5 or 6 a.m., when the dawn chorus is amazing. As well as all the common species visitors can hear Pied Flycatcher, Wood Warbler, Tree Pipit, Redstart, Green and Great Spotted Woodpecker, and the surrounding conifer forests are as good a place as any to look for Capercaillie.

Glen Tanar (NO 47 95, Map 44)


Glen Tanar is also a National Nature Reserve, and includes mainly moorland and forest. The area is locally famous for having resident "rogue" Capercaillies which attack visitors! A large variety of birds can be seen here, including one of the most regular spots for Scottish Crossbill in the car-park of the visitors' centre.
Located south of Aboyne, cross the River Dee and head west, along the south bank of the river. The road is signposted from there to Glen Tanar.

Glen Clunie (NO 15 88, Map 43)


Glen Clunie is a wild and mountainous Glen, south of Bramar, which really entails a full day's walking in suitable hillwalking gear. Birds are few, but rather special- in summer there are good chances of various raptors, and also smaller Scottish specialities like Twite and Snow Bunting, Golden Plover, Wigeon and Dunlin.

Braemar and the Cairngorms (NO 14 91, Map 43)


Braemar is at the furthest west part of Grampian, and is surrounded by mountains. To the north are the Cairngorms, which are relatively small mountains in world terms but among the most dangerous, the reasons for which see the Safety Note. Making Braemar as a base is probably a good idea for birding in the mountains, and there is also plenty of good birding within walking distance of the village. The Linn of Dee, just a few miles further west, is worth a visit, and Capercaillie and Scottish Crossbill can be found at various places on the way.