Birdwatchers will soon be able to capture images of the UK’s smallest falcon in the north-east.
Glen Tanar Estate near Aboyne has been granted a licence by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) for the photography of the park’s resident merlins and peregrine falcons.
Merlins are the tiniest species of the bird at just nine inches long and the peregrine is slightly larger at 13in.
Shutterbugs hoping to capture the winged creatures will be accompanied by a guide, and will be given the use of a mobile hide close to their natural habitats.
Colin McClean, estate wildlife manager, said: “We are not planning to do photography at the nest, but instead use natural perches around the nest that the parents use when they are feeding or just having a break.
“Those perches are probably going to be at least 100metres (328ft) from the chicks, this should reduce disturbance to a minimum and is part of the sensitive approach we adopt.”
The Royal Deeside beauty spot sits in the heart of the Cairngorms and is home to an array of beautiful wildlife.
Last year, SNH granted permission for the snapping of hen harriers, ospreys and golden eagles in the area.
Different seasons yield opportunities for explores, with late October being the best time to spot a red deer.
The photography packages available at the estate will be limited to minimise disturbance to the wildlife.