Bird song

This chaffinch is one of many that visit the garden. It is a male, much more colourful than the less colourful female.I learnt a new word today 'dimorphic' meaning that there is a visible difference between the male and female.

The chaffinch is known for its 'rain' call which is a repetitive trill. It is said to mean that rain is on the way .It was today as we had a short shower this morning which was very refreshing. It has warmed up during the day though.

When we first visited the Highlands and islands for the first time we were amazed at how tame these birds are and they will actually feed from your hand in car parks at Glen Affric for example.

We often stop off for a bacon roll at a small café on the way to Skye and there are feeders by the windows full of finches busy feeding.

An Art Gallery in Broadford on Skye also has a similar area where the artist can watch the birds while doing his work.It's like having an aviary on your doorstep.