The Loch

Published to tie in with a BBC television series, this book, divided into four sections to reflect the seasons of the year, depicts the changing moods, flora and fauna of a Highland loch. In spring, as the ice thaws and the days lengthen, we see a colourful revival: displays of golden-eye ducks, frogs and toads mating, newts re-emerging, trees flowering. The summer section gives an insight into the life and nesting habits of ospreys in some of the most picturesque parts of Scotland. Autumn brings a slowing-down of activity, with pied wagtails roosting in the reed beds before leaving for England and Africa. And finally the winter section shows how the Highland birds and animals survive the short days and bitter cold, and features wild fowl, waders and goosanders displaying at dusk. The author was an RSPB warden for many years in the Highlands and was responsible for reintroducing the sea-eagle and red kite to Scotland. His previous books include "Puffins", "Ospreys", "Peregrine Falcons" and "Divers".