Any signs of dinner yet?

The heron appears to be deliberating over his options. Small-fry coming over the waterfall or a huge sea trout negotiating the fish pass? Friends have seen him catch a sea trout. Today was not a lucky day (at least, not while we were there). He hung around on the top step for a while, then off he flew. Perhaps the still waters of the lodge are more of a fast-food restaurant.

Mini-Niagara

We enjoy walking up to the Yarrow waterfall,which always seems to us like a mini Niagara Falls. Before the fish pass was built, there was a narrow fall of water in that spot which reminded us of the American Falls. 

After a few days of heavy rain, a great view and wonderful sound greet us as we walk round this bend.  

Local can be brilliant!

Not much escaping at this time of year....too cold or wet; dark too early; winter fireside syndrome.
A five-minute drive to Yarrow Valley Country Park provides all the walking and fresh air that we need.

A feeding frenzy going on here amongst the swans, the mallards and the black-headed gulls!





The local swans had five cygnets this year, and they could be leaving soon now they are fully grown. The sixth cygnet must be an interloper!