Here in Newtonmore we are surrounded by thousands of acres of moorland and forest, teeming with wild creatures. The RSPB own the nearby Insh Marshes Nature Reserve, and just 30 minutes up the road, the Loch Garten Nature Reserve, home of the world famous Ospreys.

Just 10 minutes away, the superb, award winning Highland Wildlife Park, with its wolves and bison to name but 2 of its residents, is well worth a visit.

You can get 'up close and personal' with the Cairngorm Reindeer herd on the slopes of the Cairngorms near Aviemore, and if you wish, book a sled-dog ride through the forests. Both are great fun!

As far as birds are concerned we really do have a huge range locally. Greenfinches, Siskens, Chaffinches, Blue Tits, Great Tits, Black Birds, Thrushes, Lapwings, Wagtails both yellow and grey, Partridges, Pheasants and Oyster Catchers all put in appearances in the fields and trees around the village.

Further afield but still within easy reach in the hills and glens sightings of Golden Eagles, Ospreys, Sparrow Hawks, Peregrine Falcons, Buzzards, Merlins, Kestrels, Capercaillie, Black Grouse and Snow Bunting await you.

• www.rspb.org.uk
• www.highlandwildlifepark.org
• www.reindeer-company.demon.co.uk