Bohuntin Hill

First I must spare a thought for the poor souls who have lost their lives in the hills over the last few days; in particular for the older men in the Scottish borders. Sadly these events occur annually and always kick off media debates about the pros and cons of hill walking and climbing.
It is difficult to argue against the fact of other folk (the rescue services) potentially becoming victims themselves yet these same volunteers are also enthusiasts. While they will curse pulling a clown off Ben Nevis in trainers they would not condemn the responsible walker who has got in to unforeseen difficulty.
Smoking and alcohol abuse will claim significantly more casualties in the course of the year.
For me the positive gains from exercise, fresh air and seeing our mountain landscape round the seasons (responsibly) must be viewed favourably and encouraged.

Caley got a morning walk with Bob at Achaderry (The Extra) and I have had an office day. Finished mid afternoon I had time to take Caley up Bohuntin Hill before dark. The little hill had more of a mountain character tonight with snow coming across in a bitterly cold wind. On the way down I spotted a large light coloured raptor. I could have sworn it was a snowy owl but we aren't supposed to see them here.