Friday, 1 January 2021

The Black Hill

 


A new year, but I am still trying to capture the Pentland Hills.  Today I am featuring the Black Hill.  Even covered in snow it manages to look dark and menacing, at least compared to its neighbours.  Reasons for it appearing black?  The view across the water (Threipmuir Reservoir) reveals the northern aspect of the hill, which in the winter is deprived of direct sunlight.  The hill is covered with heather, subject to controlled burning to increase the diversity of habitat, and light snowfall fall straight through the dark shrubbery.  Having walked along it I can confirm that what soil there is is dark and peaty. 

Can you spot which one is The Black Hill ?


Trees and vegetation can make for a dramatically different microclimate as demonstrated in this picture. Snow in the fields to either side, warm and dry along this path!







8 comments:

  1. Greetings,
    Happy New Year! What do the Scots say? Wasn't Hogmanay celebrated yesterday?
    I love reading these geographical portraits/short essays of the countryside surrounding you. Many thanks.

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    1. Happy New Year is what Scot's say too, except this year when all events were cancelled and restrictions imposed on private gatherings. The "first footing" tradition is the antithesis of anti viral behaviour as it basically involves meeting and sharing a drink with as many people as possible in 24 hours. In fact New Year is so important in Scotland that we get 2 public holidays for it instead of the single day south of the border and around the world! (The day itself and a recovery day?) Glad to hear your essential services have been restored. All the best for 2021 (as we say here)

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  2. Happy New Year Mal! Love to see the snowy pics, but where’s the music gone?

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    1. Happy New Year, Belinda. After a few years my musical choices are getting a bit repetitive. But I will add one to this post just for you!)

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    2. I know what you mean about selecting tunes - and I started after you! But that is a great one - thanks! 😊 If we actually get some snowfall I may well use it ☺️

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    3. Yoko Ono's best tune! (B side of Merry Xmas War is Over)

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  3. Lovely photos, pure snow is so picturesque.

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    1. Thanks Sue. It's the snow, and my new hand me down mobile phone which has a panorama feature! Happy New Year!

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