Garrigill Grousing - Day 2

Day two saw better weather, and we ran drives over some other parts of the huge estate.  I had been told the numbers of grouse had been effected by a bad breeding season, but even still, I saw a huge number of birds. Hearing their distinctive call, and seeing huge coveys flush was truly an epic experience.

Steven, after we were both promoted!

Towards the end of the second day, one of the guns that Steven had been loading for fell Ill, and testament to the great job Steven had done for him over the two days, offered his gun to Steven. I was quick to put my hand up as a loader, and I am hanging onto the title of "fastest promoted Flanker to Loader at Garrigill" - Whether its true or not, I have no idea!

Getting to experience driven grouse from the hunting butt, as opposed to the view from beating, was a totally different experience. Steven shot pretty well over all, and I watched how he kept his gun low, and his eyes scanning. I will admit to be slow-ish on the loading, but I can confidently say my eyesight easily made up for it! We both had a blast, and it just added to my all ready epic experience.

Throughout the day, I met some real characters, and I was welcomed by all. Many of the guns came over and introduced themselves to the "Kiwi hunter", while the Garrigill crew were also superb. I had some great chats with Peter, Sid, Gregor and Mali, and, what little down time we all had was filled with stories and BS! I had really missed the banter you get on a hunting trip!

Coming from New Zealand, I had hoped to be able to experience some hunting around the world on my travels, and meet some like minded people. Never did I think, that I would receive an invitation to join a Grouse hunt on an English Moor. Thank you to Pete, Andrew, Steven, Alastair and others, who all helped to make this dream, a reality. I truly have found a little piece of Paradise.