Exploring the bay
Deserted, unspoilt and tranquil. Exploring amongst Scotlands wild coastland of Ardnamurchan, we picked the next interesting looking bay. Ditching the car we wondered down what looked like an uninspiring path. Two, less than enthused, teenagers folded their dreams of the evening’s chance to view Netflix no doubt uppermost. But as we rounded the corner birds started to sing, dragonflies shot through the air and the coastal air filled our lungs. It was going to be a beautiful day in a natural wonderland we had almost completely to ourselves.
The Golden-ringed dragonfly was an early spot. The largest dragonfly in the UK with bright yellow and black markings. Like a dragon fly pretending to be a wasp. We saw these munching on beetles and flies, and chasing wasps and bees. These live as larvae for a full 5 years before becoming their full adult form.
It was amazing to see a number of them flying down the paths and around the stream area.
Much amusement next as dad jumped straight into the brook whilst crossing over, and started wading hurriedly down it.
The stream, as well as having a few fish, had a pair of lovely damsel flies spinning and arching around one another. Brilliant blue green they occasionally stopped for a breather before flitting again and dancing further down the stream with dad in hot pursuit complete with camera bag, juggling lenses. A soaking was narrowly avoided and the resulting pictures are lovely.
A fence and standard gate led directly to a tiny deserted bay. The sun just breaking through as the crystal waters almost begged a swim. You could be on the med with the view today!
Chasing a Peacock butterfly we joined the untouched sand. The wider view, initially all absorbing, was now refocused as we saw a plethora of wildlife in and around the rock pools. Matthew was particularly adept at spotting crabs and shrimps, and Imogen for her part finding jelly fish and moving shells, each jostling for better places on the rocks.
After spending our time staring into pools we prepped for a family pic.. Matthew lingered by the rock pools discovering some sort of transparent slug and several crabs while dad setup.
Matthew also went fishing… for his glasses!
Despite a slow start the bay had really warmed our spirits by this point.
Mum stated there was a gate to the next bay and that she’d seen it. After a little debate though we gave up trying to refind it and instead opted to step around the sheep/deer fence that dropped almost into the water at the side of the bay.. a tight squeeze but as dad managed it everyone else followed.. though Matthew again lingered for the crabs.
Bay two, even more untouched than the last. Seaweed and large rocks creating a haven for sea birds, crabs and on the banks some very suspicious looking sheep.. as imposters we waded out a little (well dad did, the rest took in the scene). The oyster catchers warning calls signalled it was time to retreat before the seaweed upended dad.
The way back and Imogen and Matthew found a buoy hanging as a makeshift swing. After some fun playing with it, pushing it back and forth, it became lodged in a tree and required some gymnastics to leave as found.
Time for a final walk, what is the bird here? Brown but no mottled buzzard markings, with. Big yellow beak, looking every bit an eagle or large falcon of some sort.
What a lovely explore in a wonderful place.
A magical place now home for a bbq with salmon from the local shop!
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