Recent News (please note chronological change, most recent news at top of page)

On this page we will try to bring you information on a weekly basis regarding the general movements of the Bean Geese flock on the Slamannan Plateau. Additionally we will also give you information on other bird species so as to make a visit more interesting.      Archive Page Previous years observations

Note : Would birdwatchers please not block the entrance to the farm. As the main road is not a safe place to park please park east of Luckenburn Farm at the entrance to Sheilknowes. The geese can then be seen from the wooded area.

2009/10

24th November

Up to c160 birds have been seen nr Slamannan this past week. They have been sharing fields with a Pinkfoot flock which numbered 400 birds. However within recent days no Bean Geese have been seen in the usual haunts.

31st October

Bean goose flock seen flying to the north east of the plateau this morning at first light.

26th October

After the wind and rain of the weekend today saw ideal viewing conditions on the Slamannan Plateau. The flock were split into two groups with one of 127 in the middle field at Luckenburn and the other near Fannyside Mill of 143 birds.

The birds nr Fannyside Mill are in a field beside the road so approach quietly and slowly and you will get the best view ever of our Taiga Bean Geese. That is of course if you stay in your car and use it as a hide. Any other action on your part will see the birds spooked.

19th October 2009

A count of 259 geese was made today at Luckenburn Farm.

Other News - I can recommend a visit to Aberlady Bay at dawn or dusk at present where the count of Pinkfeet is around 29,000 birds. Definitely a sight to behold.

11th October 2009

The bean goose flock has increased in size and now stands at c150 birds.

2nd October 2009

78 bean geese were seen at Fannyside Muir tonight

Note – It has been reported that a birdwatcher driving a white Vauxhall Corsa was seen in fields stalking the bean geese flock at Luckenburn Farm on or around the 2/5 October. This type of behaviour does nothing but harm to the relationship with the farmer at this location. It is also in violation of the Countryside Access Code of Conduct and the Birdwatchers Code of Conduct.