Introduction

This evening, I am reprising a bird-watching trip based at historic, Dumbarton Rock. Location is Firth of Clyde in S.W. Scotland.

Kestrel at Dumbarton Castle

In the afternoon I joined a bird watching group at Dumbarton Castle,.

Bird Watching Group at River Clyde

Apart from the ornithological interest, Dumbarton Castle offers:

• It’s own long history, dating back at least 1500 years.
• Scottish landscape views, particularly with a snow-capped Ben Lomond (mountain) dominating the landscape.

• Views of Dumbarton.
• Glorious views of the River Clyde with Glasgow in the distance.

Snow-capped Ben Lomond

Firth of Clyde at Low Tide

View of River Clyde from Dumbarton Castle

View of Dumbarton from Dumbarton Castle

River Leven at Dumbarton

The Common Gull was dominant but the group managed to spot:

• Goldeneye.
• Little Grebe.
• Great Crested Grebe.
• Cormorant.
• Black-headed Gull.
• Herring Gull.
• Great black-backed Gull.
• Oystercatcher.
• Jackdaw.
• Kestrel.
• Glaucous Gull.

The weather was reasonably clement, staying dry and relatively mild with little wind.

Overall, I had an enjoyable afternoon which proved a good learning experience.

More Information for the visitor to Scotland

The publication, Visitors’ Guide to Scotland includes sections on landscapes, bird watching, wildlife and much more. This book is heavily illustrated and contains a wealth of information on Scotland. The ISBN is 978-1-9161332-0-4. Also available via Kindle.