A surprising number of seabirds fly up the Forth as far as Hound Point during migration. Hound Point is the best place to watch due to the sudden narrowing of the estuary at this point. The walk from South Queensferry takes about half an hour, then find a view point with a clear view east and north. Seawatching here is more difficult than many other places as birds can approach from virtually anywhere - best to have 2 or 3 pairs of eyes. A lot of birds fly low over the water, however migrating (rather than chasing) skuas habitually approach at considerable height, and if unaware of the fact, they can pass unnoticed overhead. It is best therefore to scan the horizon in the direction of the transmitter mast, Inchkeith and Granton gas works in order to spot the birds before they gain height, and they can then be followed in. Don't forget to scan northwards as well though.

It appears that weather conditions for passage are not so critical as on the North Sea coast with birds passing in various conditions. Most passage occurs on days of light to moderate winds from the north-west to south-east, with least birds occurring during winds from a west to south direction. Onshore winds with clear weather and broken cloud (for example after the passage of a front) prove most favourable. Another weather sequence which often proves to induce movement is when there is low cloud or mist on the Forth for a day or more which suddenly lifts giving clear conditions. There is a theory that movements normally occur between noon and dusk, with a possible peak in the late afternoon, but on good days birds pass through throughout the day. Late July to mid October (occasionally later) is doubtless the most productive time to do a seawatch but passage in winter gales and spring remains virtually unstudied, but judging from the few records, it can also be good.

The behaviour of seabirds at Hound Point is fascinating; it has been observed that Kittiwakes and skuas (at least) may frequently cross over the Forth Bridges and continue westwards and it has been suggested that they in fact continue their migration across to the west coast. Look out for any further evidence for this behaviour.

Most seawatchers go to Hound Point to see skuas, and they are rarely disappointed as they pass in good numbers from late July through into November. Arctic Skuas are the most common with regular counts of 10-20 birds. In early autumn feeding birds frequently pass back and forth chasing terns, but on many days passage is evident with a peak of 88 west in 3 hours on 24 September 1982. Great Skuas tend to occur later with many days producing up to 10 (frequently more) birds, and a corresponding peak passage of 39 west in 2½ hours on 1 October 1982. Pomarine Skuas occur here more regularly that was previously thought, usually late in the season along with Great Skuas. 1985 was considered to be an exceptional year with some 300 birds recorded during October and November (with 45-50 on 25 October 1985), but over 240 birds were also seen in 1988. The rarest skua, the Long-tailed, had only been recorded on three occasions until 1988 when c.60 were seen during autumn passage. Most of the seawatching at Hound Point has been carried out by a very few enthusiasts over less than 10 years; if regularly watched there is no doubt that this site would become one of the best in Scotland for skuas!

A wide variety of other seabirds can be seen, especially on days of passage: Kittiwakes, auks (mainly Guillemots), divers, Gannets, Fulmars and Manx Shearwaters are frequent with the annual appearance of a few Black Tern and Little Gull in autumn. A Grey Phalarope was seen in a north-easterly gale on 18 March 1978 with another phalarope (probably this species) on 14 February 1986 (ESE force 5-6). Little Auks have also made it this far up the Forth with an amazing 376 on 23 November 1987. Sooty Shearwater, Sabine's Gull and Black Guillemot have also been recorded.

The visible migration of passerines (thrushes, larks and pipits for example) is recorded and other species, such as Snow Bunting, Twite, Yellow Wagtail, Short-eared Owl and Sparrowhawk have been observed. Keep a note of other species seen moving, ducks often pass in good numbers, geese and swans fly over and even crows undertake a curious movement across the Forth.

Humbie Church Wood is a very interesting mature mixed woodland, although up until 10 years ago more extensive than it is today. Large oaks and beeches dominate the wood providing habitat for many woodland species, notably Wood Warbler, Chiffchaff, Redstart and woodpeckers. Access is from the Kirk Bridge at Humbie Church, and several tracks cross the wood.

Saltoun Wood lies to the north of Humbie with a right of way from Milton Bridge to Gilchriston along the north bank of the river.

Although these hills lack such true mountain birds as Ptarmigan or Golden Eagle, with just a little effort a fair range of inland and upland species can be found. Rising to 535 metres at Meikle Says Law, most of the Lammermuirs are carefully-managed grouse moor. Controlled burning of small areas produces a patchwork of heather of different ages: older leggy heather is good nesting-cover but younger, shorter heather provides better feeding. Red Grouse numbers fluctuate in a cyclical manner but a long-term reduction in numbers (just recently arrested) has led to falling profitability of moors which has caused an increase in afforestation. This is perhaps the greatest threat to the Merlin, which is the only raptor breeding here in significant numbers. These predators are summer visitors to the hills, feeding largely on Meadow Pipits which also emigrate in autumn. Other birds of prey to be found in this habitat are Buzzard, Peregrine and Hen Harrier whilst Rough-legged Buzzards are identified occasionally in winter. Also frequenting moorland at this season are flocks of Snow Buntings but Skylarks, Golden Plovers and Curlews are summer visitors. Indeed, in a hard winter it is all too easy to see nothing but Red Grouse in the course of a day's birding!

Many of the burns are territory for Dipper, Grey Wagtail and Common Sandpiper whilst Wheatears and Ring Ouzels breed on the valley sides. Although there are no natural lochs there are several reservoirs but only the two largest, Hopes and Whiteadder, are truly worthy of a visit. The former supports a large Mallard roost in winter but Whiteadder, flooded in 1969, has a better range of species: Wigeon, Mallard, Teal, Tufted Duck and Goldeneye are common and Goosanders can be found in small numbers, with more in late afternoon when they come in to roost. Great Crested Grebes attempted to breed here in 1986, the only East Lothian nesting attempt, and Red-neckeds have been seen on a couple of occasions. A few Grey Herons are usually to be found and probably nest locally but Cormorants and the (very) occasional Osprey don't. Greylags feed on adjacent farmland and roost here at night but other goose species are unusual. Mute and Whooper Swans are regular and Bewick's have also been recorded.

Mixed arable and sheep farming, mostly in the richer valleys, attract finch flocks which often include Bramblings; Twites have also occurred here in the past. Fieldfares can often be found here if the ground is unfrozen and an odd Fieldfare or Redwing is not unusual well into May. Lapwings nest commonly in the fields and Oystercatcher, Redshank and Snipe also breed.

There are many small shelter belts (which may harbour Long-eared Owls) but one of the best bits of woodland is The Bell (east of Whiteadder Reservoir), where Tree Pipits and Redstarts sing in spring (Pied Flycatcher once) and Cuckoos can be commonly heard. Sparrowhawk, Woodcock and Great Spotted Woodpecker are fairly regular here and Green Woodpeckers are also noted from time to time. In winter Redpolls can often be found and in 1985 an Arctic and several Mealies were also present amongst the Lessers. Fairly extensive conifer plantations are being established in the Monynut area (including the newly planted Crystal Forest) and it will be interesting to see how good for birds these ultimately become. In the first few years after planting they are certainly very good for Whinchats and Short-eared Owls although later Coal Tits and Goldcrests seem to predominate. Common Crossbills are seen occasionally and they, and Siskins, will probably increase in future years. Along the forest edge Black Grouse are encountered although a regular lek site has yet to be found.

Although you are likely to be disappointed if you visit the Lammermuirs expecting to see unusual species, better coverage in recent years has produced a few surprises, some of which I have already mentioned. A singing Black Redstart and a spring trip of Dotterels were highlights of two of my days but Goshawk, Great Grey Shrike and an elusive Gyrfalcon have also been noted by others.

Apart from a picnic site at the east end of Whiteadder Reservoir (now managed by Borders Regional Council) most of the Lammermuirs is privately owned. Much of your birdwatching can be done from public roads, tracks along the lines of pylons, and several rights of way, but access to land is easily obtained by means of a courtesy call to farmer or keeper. There are, of course, some restrictions such as on dogs at lambing time or onto moorland during grouse shooting but a chat with a local beforehand can often be of mutual benefit - the farmer may just know where a Great Grey Shrike is wintering! Whiteadder can be viewed from several points on or near the road which runs along its northern shore. A right of way runs from the road past the two bays at the east end, through Priestlaw Farm and then along the loch side before heading up Priestlaw Hill.

This site consists of approximately 4 miles of coastline situated within the City boundary, comprising rocky foreshore, beach, reclaimed land, docks and open sea. It has a surprising variety of birds, mainly waders and seabirds with the occasional interesting passerine. Nowadays access is unrestricted to the whole area but care should be taken in the Docks.

Wildfowl, grebes and divers: winter is usually the most rewarding time for a visit especially in hard weather, although the vast flocks of wildfowl have now gone from Seafield with the opening of the sewage works. Numbers in recent years peak at approximately 1000 Eider, 150 Goldeneye and 100 Long-tailed Duck towards the end of the winter. During periods of hard frost Pochard (about 200), Tufted Duck (700) and some Scaup (50) use the Western Harbour which is kept ice free. This stretch of the Forth is internationally important for wintering Great Crested Grebe with up to 1000 at times, but with 300-400 more usual, peaking in December. Occasional Red-necked, Slavonian and Black-necked Grebes are recorded mainly off Seafield but they are not as frequent as further east. Red-throated Divers peak in October at about 30 with regular Black-throated Divers off the King's Road.

Waders: this part of the coast is an important feeding area for birds roosting mainly at Musselburgh, especially Knot (up to 1000) and Bar-tailed Godwits (500). Small roosts of other species can be found, depending on disturbance, at various places - Joppa rocks, Leith Docks or in the Sewage Works. Nationally important numbers (about 350) of Turnstone winter in the area and a roost of about 50 Purple Sandpipers can be found at the Dock gates. Most of our regular waders have been seen including Curlew Sandpiper, Little Stint, Black-tailed Godwit, Whimbrel with the occasional Green Sandpiper or Greenshank passing over. Recently 2 or 3 Sanderling have wintered on the beach at the King's Road and Golden Plover can often be seen on the beach especially during hard weather.

Gulls and skuas: during the winter months this area is important for roosting gulls especially Common Gull which can number 20,000 off Portobello and Black-headed Gull with about 7000 around Seafield. One or two Glaucous and Little Gulls are regular mainly at Seafield. Seabird movement is similar to Musselburgh and any influx, be it Pomarine Skua or Little Auk, will be reflected along this coast. Manx Shearwater and skuas are common in the right conditions and good seawatching points are off King's Road and Joppa.

Passerines: any area of waste ground in the area will attract birds in hard weather especially in the Docks. Snow Bunting, Redwing, Fieldfare, Redpoll, Twite and Brambling are regular with larger flocks of Linnet, Skylark and Meadow Pipit. These birds naturally attract raptors and Sparrowhawk, Merlin and Peregrine are often recorded along with the occasional Short-eared Owl. The huge flock of Greenfinch that used to winter at Seafield on waste grain has now gone, but a large Starling roost still persists in the Docks.

A small number of species nest along the coast, the most important being a colony of Common Terns, now numbering about 200 pairs, that use an island at the entrance to Imperial Dock. Unlike other mainland colonies this one is relatively free from predators or problems with tide or weather and breed successfully. An odd pair of Arctic Terns sometimes join them. Two to three pairs of Ringed Plover still attempt to nest, sometimes in the most unlikely places around the Docks, as do 1-2 pairs of Eider.

Migrants turn up occasionally, the more interesting being Whinchat, Wheatear, Yellow Wagtail, Black Redstart, Bluethroat, Pied Flycatcher and Ring Ouzel.

Mention should also be made of the areas slightly inland that are worth a visit. The two best areas are the Figgate Park and along the Brunstane Burn. The latter, under threat from housing development however, has a good selection of breeding birds including Sparrowhawk, Tawny Owl, Whitethroat, Lesser Whitethroat, Garden Warbler, Sedge Warbler, Blackcap, Yellowhammer, Reed Bunting and Tree Sparrow.

Linlithgow Loch is one of the few remaining undrained natural lochs in the Lothians. The Loch with a surface area of around 41 ha (100 acres), is situated on the north side of the town alongside Linlithgow Palace and Peel. The Loch is scheduled as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and it is because of this that strict control must be exercised over its use for recreation to ensure that its nature conservation interests are not compromised. Although it is popular with yachtsmen and has a close proximity to the town over a hundred species of bird have been recorded, and the Loch is an important winter roost site for duck as well as a breeding area for many bird species.

A walk around the Loch takes about an hour and superb scenes of the Palace, the town and countryside to the south can be seen. There is a wealth of interesting wildlife on and in the surrounding areas of the Loch which varies with the seasons.

The Vennel Car Park is a useful starting point for the lochside walk, following the route on the map. The first point of interest is in the Town Bay. Linlithgow Loch supports some of the largest flocks of Coot, Mallard and Tufted Duck in West Lothian and many congregate in the sheltered Town Bay.

Continuing round the willow-fringed margins the only burn flowing out of the Loch is reached. The Mill Burn which is crossed by a small footbridge carries water via a sluice to the nearby papermill. In winter when the Loch is frozen the Mill Burn generally remains open and at such times sightings of locally rare birds such as the Kingfisher and Water Rail have occurred.

In spring and summer the Phragmites reedbed of the West Bay is an excellent habitat for nesting birds. It regularly provides nesting sites for a pair of Mute Swans, Little Grebe, Coots, Moorhens, Sedge Warblers, Reed Buntings and the spectacular Great Crested Grebe. These magnificent birds, which are the main attraction at the Loch, can be seen displaying at close quarters from April onwards until the young have hatched when noisy family groups can be seen feeding all over the Loch. The West Bay is also a favourite haunt for Pochard and Tufted Duck during the autumn and winter. The rare Ruddy Duck has occurred and a Smew has been regular over the past few years.

In contrast to the Town Bay the northern shore of the Loch from the Mill Burn to Bonnytoun Burn is fringed with reeds. Although not as tall as those in the West Bay they do provide good nesting cover for Coots, Moorhens, Little Grebes and a few pairs of Sedge Warbler and Reed Bunting. The natural landscape of this area has been changed by the tree and scrub planting which was carried out in the 1960s in association with the construction of the M9 motorway. This barrier of planting is more than just a screen between the Loch and the motorway. By the use of species like Hazel, Snow Berry, Bird Berry, Rowan, Willow and Wild Roses an excellent habitat has been created. In the spring and summer this area holds breeding warblers, finches and buntings. In autumn and winter Fieldfares and Redwings strip the trees and shrubs of berries while Brambling and other finches forage for seeds.

The small marshy area and sandy beach at the mouth of Bonnytoun Burn provide a unique habitat on the loch shore and small numbers of wading birds have been recorded in this area. Snipe, Redshank, Ringed Plover, Oystercatcher and Common Sandpiper all appear here from time to time.

Swallows, martins and Swifts make their first appearances in the area in early spring at Linlithgow Loch, and large numbers have been seen in May. In previous years a large number of Swallows have roosted in the West Bay reedbed prior to the autumn migration. In autumn and winter the flocks of Tufted Duck and Pochard are swollen and these are joined by Goldeneye, Wigeon and a few Teal. Large flocks of Black-headed Gulls are present along with smaller numbers of Cormorant and the odd grey goose.

Unusual species that have been recorded here include Red-throated Diver, Slavonian Grebe, Scaup, Egyptian Goose, Canada Goose, Red-breasted Merganser, Shelduck and Sandwich Tern.

Because of the Bird Sanctuary it is not possible to follow a waterside route all way round the Loch and a short detour along Blackness Road is necessary before entering the Peel grounds via the lane next to the Roman Catholic Church. Once the Peel has been reached there are a number of alternative routes which can be taken to complete the walk.

This steep-sided valley of the River South Esk cuts southwards into the Moorfoot Hills. Access is from the car park at the south-western end of Gladhouse Reservoir, past Moorfoot Farm and then on the track up the valley. It is possible to continue a walk over the watershed into the extensive plantations of the Leithen Water valley. Typical birds of upland streams and moorland are in good numbers, in particular Wheatear, Ring Ouzel, Dipper and Grey Wagtail. Birds of prey frequent the Moorfoots and migrant Red Kite and wandering Golden Eagle have been spotted. A rare fall of migrants on 20 May 1978 included Wryneck and Redstart.

Muiravonside Country Park consists of 170 acres of policy woodland, gardens and meadowland situated on the B825 road about 3 miles south-west of Linlithgow. It is signposted from Junction 4 of the M9 Edinburgh-Stirling road. The delights of Muiravonside remain largely undiscovered and consequently its two small car parks are more than adequate - the larger of the two, by Newparks Farm (see map) lies closest to the best birding areas. A small visitor centre (with toilets) is open 10.30 am to 4 pm every day between April and September, and at weekends during the winter, but the park itself never closes.

Most of the birdwatching interest is centred around the south-east corner of the park along the wooded gorge of the River Avon. There is a healthy population of woodland species which includes Mistle Thrush, Long-tailed Tit, Goldcrest and Tawny Owl. Treecreeper, Great Spotted Woodpecker and Sparrowhawk can be rather elusive but patient observers may record all three on a single visit. The period mid-April to late June sees the park at its best when the songs of Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff and Spotted Flycatcher mix with those of the resident species at the ruin of Muiravonside House and around the Kitchen Garden. In the autumn the red berries of the Yew trees which surround the Stirling family burial ground may attract early Redwings and Fieldfares, while the nearby birch trees often entertain mixed parties of tits and Redpoll.

Both Dipper and Grey Wagtail breed along the River Avon and in 1985 Lesser Whitethroats were recorded for the first time on the West Lothian bank of the river at the Little Haugh. Common Sandpiper occurs on passage and both Grey Heron and Goldeneye can be present in winter.

The open meadowland at the centre of the park provides a complete contrast to the wooded area and is the favourite haunt of the resident pair of Kestrels. Several magnificent oak trees standing within the meadows can inspire migrant Tree Pipits to sing and provide a welcome food-source for passing Jays in the autumn.

For those with a little more time on their hands, a visit to the Rookery is recommended in spring when there is always plenty of action and noise. Woodcock and Great Spotted Woodpecker are regularly sighted in this area too.

The Muiravonside Country Park 'list' also includes a number of rarer or less predictable visitors including Green Woodpecker, Sand Martin, Wood Warbler, Pied Flycatcher, Crossbill, Siskin, Brambling, Buzzard, Kingfisher, Cormorant and Pink-footed Goose (overhead). Over 80 species have been recorded in total.

Before the 1960s the area between the mouth of the Esk and Prestongrange was natural foreshore with extensive mussel beds, as are found on the west side today. It was during 1964-66 that the South of Scotland Electricity Board constructed a series of four 'lagoons' east of the river mouth by building a concrete seawall. Subsequently the area behind the new wall was progressively infilled from the east, by the disposal of waste fly ash from Cockenzie Power Station. At present a series of higher level lagoons have recently been constructed to allow the dumping of ash to continue for several years to come. In adventurous plans for the future of the area, East Lothian District Council plan to build a bird scrape and hide (by 1995?) as part of a whole range of amenity improvements.

The land is mostly owned by the SSEB and access on foot is allowed in most areas except, for safety reasons, the active lagoons. Park either by the old gas works (Balcarres Road) or at the end of the river-side road (Goosegreen Crescent).

The route taken from here really depends on the state of the tide. At low tide, the river mouth has most activity and from there you can then walk the length of the seawall to look out to sea. At very high tide, although the sea will be worth a look later, it will now be necessary to explore the lagoon areas where the waders and gulls roost. Problems with bad lighting only really affect the river mouth, where it becomes particularly difficult late on a sunny day; early mornings are better.

The best time for a visit is some 3 hours before a spring tide, although later for a neap tide. At this time the waders are gradually pushed off the river mouth and the ducks move closer. When looking out to sea it is difficult to say where the ducks and divers will be. The best strategy is to walk a short way, stop and scan, then repeat as you progress along the sea wall; the east end of the corner lagoon (the 'point') sticks out the furthest and is worth the longest look. You can then walk as far as you wish, but go at least as far as the sewage outflow in the bay, you could then return on a route behind the lagoons. On a rising tide the Fisherrow shore provides an opportunity to get good views of waders, but there are often too many dog walkers.

Along with Aberlady Bay this is the most watched area in the Lothians. At the correct state of the tide it is probably the best place to obtain good views of the common waders, gulls and ducks. The following is a guide of what can be seen at the various seasons.

At this season sea ducks and other water birds are in good numbers, and can be seen well from the seawall especially in calm weather. Long-tailed Duck, Common and Velvet Scoter often congregate in the bay west of the lagoons but you will need a powerful telescope; good numbers are more easily seen from the 'point' area eastwards, which is also a good place to look for divers (mainly Red-throated) and grebes (Great Crested, Slavonian and Red-necked). Eiders congregate around the mussel beds at all but high tide when they then drift offshore some distance. Groups of Goldeneye can be seen off the river mouth and at the sewer outfall and these are also the most favoured sites for the odd Smew. A male Surf Scoter was seen off the river mouth on 13 November 1983, but we are still waiting for our first King Eider to turn up. The famous, large flocks of Scaup (up to 30,000) are unfortunately a thing of the past, recent counts rarely exceed 25.

Auks occur in small numbers, but often close in to the seawall; occasional Black Guillemots and Little Auks are also seen. On 17 November 1985 a total of 233 Little Auks flew east past the lagoons, and larger than usual numbers of the other auks also occurred as part of this 'wreck'.

The mussel beds at the mouth of the Esk have probably always attracted many thousands of feeding waders. Although the construction of the lagoons caused the loss of some of this feeding area, many more birds can now roost in the area rather than making the long flight to other safe roosts such as Aberlady (Furness 1973). Golden Plover, which appear to roost on the mussel beds or lagoons, more often feed inland from Musselburgh.

Gulls, often in hundreds feed and bathe on the river and near the sewer pipe at low tide. These are joined by many more in the evening to form a large roost either out at sea or on the corner lagoon, depending on the weather and tide. If you like gull watching this is the place to scan through for a Glaucous Gull.

Peregrines and Merlins are not resident at Musselburgh, but the area is clearly part of a feeding territory of several individuals, however one bird may only pass through once a day.

The grassy edges to the lagoons and extensive rough ground offer wintering habitat for many finches and buntings. Linnets are the most numerous, followed by Skylarks, but most winters Snow and Lapland Bunting, Twite and occasionally Shore Lark put in an appearance especially in hard weather. Peak numbers are 590 Snow Bunting on 15 February 1977 and 48 Laplands on 15 March 1987. In freezing conditions Skylark often increase in number and infrequent visitors like Yellowhammer, Reed Bunting and Brambling also turn up. A few Rock Pipits regularly winter along the seawall, but there are also signs of a passage in October-November. Short-eared Owl occur infrequently, but good numbers of Partridge can usually be seen.

Slightly up river, Grey Wagtail and Dipper can be seen and in 1984/85 a Kingfisher stayed from 2 October-12 February. In subzero temperatures Little Grebe and even Coot have been seen on the river.

Late winter and early spring often produces a number of good sightings. Out to sea at this season Long-tailed Ducks and Goldeneye display vigorously on fine days and the rarer divers are more likely to be seen.

Gulls are well worth a look in spring. There is a passage of Common Gulls through the area and it is associated with these that we have spotted Mediterranean Gulls and, in 1985, at least one Ring-billed Gull. Musselburgh has had more Mediterranean Gulls than anywhere else in Scotland. Glaucous and Iceland Gulls visit the river mouth and roost more frequently now, but we have also been confused by whiter than white, albinistic Herring Gulls. Although the odd single Lesser Black-backed Gull may overwinter, mid March sees their return passage.

As spring progresses summer visitors put in an appearance: Sandwich, Common Terns, Common Sandpiper, Wheatear and White Wagtails being the most likely. The first hirundines in the region are often spotted on the river in mid April.

Wader passage in spring has its own special features: there is a big passage of Turnstones in late April, peaking at over 400, and Ringed Plover continue to pass through until mid-May. Sanderling, uncommon birds at Musselburgh, occur in small numbers in May (and August).

Musselburgh's breeding birds are relatively few; of the ducks Eider broods are seen and must have bred nearby and Shelduck used to nest in the past; a few pairs of Ringed Plover attempt to breed and miraculously rear young in most years, despite seemingly continuous disturbance from site lorries. A small pool and marshy area, now flattened, provided a fine habitat with Dunlin, Lapwing and Yellow Wagtail breeding in 1987-88. Skylark, Linnet and Partridge also breed.

Return passage starts early and is evident even in June! Curlew numbers build up rapidly in late June and the first Golden Plover, Knot, Bar-tailed Godwit and Grey Plover are recorded soon after. In addition to the normal waders, Whimbrel, Ruff, Greenshank and Spotted Redshank are seen occasionally. A good spell of easterly winds usually brings a small influx of Little Stint and Curlew Sandpiper. North American waders - White-rumped, Buff-breasted and Pectoral Sandpipers, Wilson's Phalarope and American Golden Plover - have also been recorded. Passage waders often feed near the river mouth at low tide but can all to easily disappear in the mass of roosting birds. Small flashes in fields, muddy pools and the edge of the boating pond are other potential wader habitats.

August sees huge numbers of terns, mainly Sandwich resting at the river mouth and lagoons. A peak of over 1000 contains many colour-ringed birds which are thought to come from Aberdeenshire or the Farne Islands. Common Terns increase to over 100, and it seems likely that these originate from the nearby Leith docks colony. In August and September Black Terns, although uncommon, can sometimes be seen fishing at the river mouth. Whilst October-early November is the time when a small number of Little Gulls often pass through. Arctic and Little Terns are uncommon, but Musselburgh has produced two Scottish firsts - Forster's Tern in 1985 and Lesser Crested Tern in 1987.

Wigeon and Teal pass through in autumn and a moulting flock of Red-breasted Merganser builds up to over 400 in late autumn. More unusual ducks, like Pintail and Shoveler, are most likely at this time of the year and a Red-crested Pochard was seen in August 1984. A moulting flock of Great Crested Grebes builds up in numbers to a peak of over 100 in September, but unlike Gosford Bay, Red-necked Grebes usually arrive much later.

Geese are usually only seen on passage. Pinkfeet and Greylags pass over in autumn and during hard weather, and Barnacle Geese have recently been seen flying over with increasing frequency in late September-October. Canada Geese also occur on passage but for this species peak times are in May-June and August-September. Whooper Swans are rare and the only Bewick's Swan record is of a flock of 11 seen on 19 November 1972.

Musselburgh is not ideally sited for seawatching, but every year a good number of skuas and Manx Shearwaters are seen. In summer Arctic Skuas and shearwaters feeding in the Forth can be seen from the 'point', but in autumn larger passages occur in northerly and easterly gales. The lagoons are very exposed and in good passage conditions it is difficult to find shelter - try in the lee of the hut at the river mouth or below the seawall. Arctic Skuas are many times more common than Greats and some clearly congregate in the bay off Eastfield before making their way back out to sea. Long-tailed Skua, Pomarine Skua and Sabine's Gull are rare autumn seabirds to look out for.

There is little cover for migrant passerines at present. Wheaters occur on passage and may be associated with the odd Whinchat or Yellow Wagtail. Rarities include Tawny Pipit, Citrine Wagtail and Short-toed Lark.

The north-western and northern parts of the Pentland Hills lie in Lothian Region and provide birdwatchers and hillwalkers with an upland area within a short distance of the city. They reach a maximum height of 1898 feet at Scald Law with the other peaks being Black Hill and Allermuir Hill. Many glens break up the hills the most prominent being the Glencorse-Loganlea-Green Cleugh valley and within the hills there are also three main reservoirs: Loganlea, Glencorse and North Esk.

The Loganlea area of the Pentlands provides habitat for the range of upland birds of moor, river and reservoir. The moorland holds Red Grouse, Curlew, Golden Plover and a few Dunlin; the burns Dipper, Grey Wagtail and Common Sandpiper, the cleughs Ring Ouzels and the slopes Wheatear, Whinchat and rarely Stonechat. Birds of prey also make use of the hills, but Raven have all but disappeared.

In winter flocks of Snow Bunting can be found on the peaks and although rare Dotterel are worth looking out for in spring and autumn. Other migrants in the valleys include two autumn Wryneck, two spring Black Redstarts and passage Green Sandpiper, Greenshank, Turnstone, Slavonian Grebe and Red-throated Diver. A large influx of Rough-legged Buzzards in autumn 1903 included up to 8 in the Loganlea area, but this sight has not been repeated - the only recent records are singles in 1965 (Black Hill) and 1966 (Glencorse).

The reservoirs are not very productive; Greylags breed on Glencorse and there is a Black-headed Gull colony on North Esk Reservoir (where Ringed Plover, Common Gull and Common Tern also occasionally nest).

Access from Bavelaw is from the Red Moss car park, past Bavelaw Castle and then following the footpath up the Green Cleugh. In the reverse direction access from Flotterstone car park follows a track past Glencorse and Loganlea Reservoirs. The complete walk from Bavelaw to Flotterstone is some 6 miles. The hills themselves are crossed by many paths, with access from Bonaly, Swanston, Silverburn etc.

The Pencaitland Railway Walk (NT368689 to 454666) was the first of its kind in Scotland; recently the local authority has developed the Haddington to Longniddry line (NT505740 to 449764) in the same way. Both lines feature scrub habitat in various stages of development as well as views over arable farmland and adjacent woods. To the birdwatcher they are probably at their best in May and June when breeding passerines are conspicuous. The lineside scrub holds a good variety of songbirds, notably finches and warblers. Seven species of warbler breed along the walks including Grasshopper Warbler and Lesser Whitethroat. The latter is now relatively widespread in East and Midlothian but easily overlooked. It is best located on a morning in late spring singing from a tall hawthorn. Lesser Whitethroats are actually commoner in this area than Grasshopper Warblers but anyone walking these old tracks at the right time of year should eventually hear one - seeing them is harder! Likely spots are where the Pencaitland Walk crosses the River Tyne, near the former station at Ormiston or by the marsh near Cousland (though the noise from the Torness power lines can drown out the reeling warblers).

The walks can be productive outwith the breeding season. Flocks of thrushes and, less often, Waxwings feed on the berries in autumn. There are always resident species such as the finches, Yellowhammers and Tree Sparrows that congregate at the Ormiston grain store. Birdlife in the adjacent fields is rather sparse but Red-legged Partridge occur along with the much commoner Greys and there are a few breeding waders in some fields, especially near Cousland. The woods near Pencaitland hold a few Hawfinch.

One drawback of these walks is that they are linear rather than circular and you either have to retrace your steps or arrange transport at the other end. The Pencaitland Walk provides some opportunities of varying your return route due to the number of branch lines that served former collieries and the network of minor roads in the area.

Following the west bank and beginning your walk from the mouth of the River Esk, you are likely to see a variety of duck on the first stretch of the river leading to Rennie's Bridge (the A1). Goldeneye can be seen in groups of up to ten feeding in the shallow but fast-flowing waters in winter and a Mandarin has been seen on one occasion. Mallard occur in small numbers but swans are plentiful in the spring forming a veritable 'swannery' of up to 30 individuals and two pairs actually nesting at Store Bridge and further up-river at the Roman Bridge. Mallard broods can be seen on this stretch - one was even seen walking down Musselburgh High Street one Sunday morning. A Kingfisher once spent a winter on this lower stretch but passage Common Sandpiper and wintering Lesser Black-backed Gull are more frequent. Standing on the A1 bridge will give fine views of hirundines and Swifts during spring and summer.

Cross the river at Mill Bridge and continue along the east bank of the river to The Grove where Spotted Flycatcher occur in the willows both at Mill Bridge and along The Grove itself by the Golf Course. On this same stretch Dipper and Grey Wagtail give good views especially at the Weir and at the water's edge. Whitethroat (up to six heard singing along a 25 yard stretch) and Blackcap are often located after the first sharp bend of the footpath where it broadens into a grassy area opposite the golf course. Siskin are also found in riverside alders in winter. Further on a small detour along the railway embankment towards Inveresk will lead you to a wild garden where Rosebay Willowherb is a particular favourite for Sedge Warblers and the embankment may produce Garden Warbler. Continuing under the new by-pass, you soon join a minor road to Whitecraig - look out for Tree Sparrows on this stretch.

The area behind Musselburgh is one of the last remaining haunts of Corn Bunting in Lothian. The arable fields, hedges and scrub between Musselburgh and Falside Hill should be checked carefully in May, listening out for the characteristic song of the males. Specific sites include the Howe Mire, west of Wallyford (NT358713), between Sweethope and Cowpits, at Crookston and St Clement's Well. The road and pathside vegetation also holds Sedge Warbler, Whitethroat, Lesser Whitethroat and a few Whinchat.

At the head of the Tyne Water near Crichton Castle (NT380612) a variety of habitats, including woodland, scrub and marsh, makes for a wide range of bird species. Access is from the Gorebridge-Crichton road or from Crichton Kirk where a footpath runs south to Borthwick. Further downstream extensive mixed woodland, farmland and policies are also found in the Vogrie Estate Country Park (NT381632), which is administered by the local authority. Access is off the Gorebridge-Pathhead road and several walks are marked in the grounds. Facilities include a picnic area and toilets.

Typical woodland birds are well represented, including Tree Pipit, Redstart, Green and Great Spotted Woodpecker, Garden Warbler and Long-tailed Tit. In addition the marshy area at Crichton holds Sedge and Grasshopper Warblers and Reed Bunting, and Siskin are regular in the riverside alders.

There is a footpath along the left bank of the river from the footbridge at the east end of Riverside Drive (NT520743) to the Abbey Bridge, beyond Abbey Mill both banks of the river are private. Turn east off A6137 at Artillery Park, which leads into Riverside Drive. It is usually possible to find a parking space near the end of Riverside Drive. There is no room to park at Abbey Bridge - the road there is narrow and the verges near the bridge are needed by vehicles waiting to cross, as the bridge is only wide enough for one vehicle at a time.

During 1988 the following birds were breeding by this stretch of river: Swallow, House Martin, Grey Wagtail, Pied Wagtail, Dipper, Wren, Robin, Blackbird, Song Thrush, Sedge Warbler, Whitethroat, Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Spotted Flycatcher, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Starling, Yellowhammer and Reed Bunting. Other birds visiting this part of the river during the spring and summer included Heron, Common Sandpiper, Swift, Sand Martin, Meadow Pipit, Mistle Thrush, Greenfinch, Linnet and Bullfinch. Kingfisher have been seen on this stretch of river.

There is also access to the left bank of the river from the Nungate Bridge (NT518734) up the river to the east march of Clerkington Estate, beyond this fence both banks of the river are private. Turn east off A6137 at Church Street, where there is a car park, from there it is only a short walk down The Sands to the Nungate Bridge.

A pair of Mute Swans usually have their nest on this island just below the Nungate Bridge and they often remain on this part of the river during the winter. Dipper and Grey Wagtail can usually be seen between here and the next bridge in the breeding season, and a pair of Little Grebe were seen feeding here during very cold weather in February 1986. Siskins can sometimes be found feeding on the alders along the bank near Clerkington march in late winter/early spring.

Other river walks with public access include the north bank of the Tyne from Hailes Mill (NT576760) to East Linton and east from East Linton, again on the north bank, from Preston Mill (NT594780) as far as the Tyne Bridge at Tyninghame. These walks are again through sheltered woodland and scrub habitats, rich in warblers in spring and summer.