INSH MARSHES RSPB
Wide vistas of wetlands backed by mountains
Insh Marshes are part of the River Spey floodplain between Kingussie and Kincraig, in Badenoch and Strathspey. They are said to be one of the most important wetlands in Europe, with winter floods holding a vast area of water, and are protected by several designations. The reserve has magnificent views, and there are several hides to use if the weather is bad. The high ground allows you to travel on paths away from water, with the hides built above the marsh, letting you look down on birds. Over the years the star breeding birds have included Wood Sandpiper, which bring their young to feed on the marsh, and Spotted Crake, which is heard more than seen with its nocturnal whip noises. Recent summer sightings of Marsh Harrier may add them to the breeding list in future, but winter Hen Harrier is a regular, with a roost sometimes attracting more than 10 birds. It would not be Speyside if Osprey was not on the reserve in spring and summer, with views of the river from the hides where they fish. The hills behind the river can have Golden Eagle, but many satellite tagged birds go missing from this area. Management on the marsh itself is increasing grazing to improve the area for breeding waders such as Lapwing, Snipe, Redshank and Curlew. The winter flooding encourages large numbers of Whooper Swans to use the area, joined by Goldeneye, Wigeon, Teal and Mallard, with all these ducks breeding locally. Red-breasted Mergansers use the river and breed close by, along with Goosander. The woodlands are full of song in spring, with Willow Warblers the dominant song along with Garden and Grasshopper Warbler, Blackcap, Redstart and Tree Pipit. Winter tit flocks are worth checking for the odd Crested Tit with both Siskin and Redpoll building up to large flocks, along with wintering thrushes.