Red Grouse

Three days in the Peak District looking for red grouse, with plenty of walking, some cracking sunrises and some beautiful mornings out on the hills.

There were plenty of grouse about, but they were seriously skittish. Getting anywhere near them was another matter, and most were gone long before I had any chance of a photo.

The first morning was probably the highlight. It was cold, completely still and the grouse were calling all around me as the sun came up. One of those mornings where you’re happy just to be out there, even if you don’t get the shots you came for.

The funny thing was, later on people were showing me videos on their phones of grouse just sitting around in the heather and seemingly not bothered by anyone. Typical! I never did get to meet that particular bird.

Still, that’s how it goes with wildlife. Sometimes you get lucky, sometimes you don’t. I had a brilliant three days and I’ll definitely be heading back for another go.