Nature Reserves in Scotland

Nature Reserves in Scotland

The nature reserves are protected areas and are designated to preserve and promote the natural environment. Visiting these reserves keeps this valuable work at the forefront, spread the word and maintains awareness for everyone who passes through or is asked about what the reserves are all about. 

The Cairngorms National Park is perhaps the best known reserve within Scotland as it is the biggest. This reserve offers a range of habitats for creatures including within the mountains, forests, rivers and of course the moorlands. The park is host to a range of rich wildlife which include red deer, golden eagles, ospreys and that elusive wildcat we have talked about before. See if you can spot them on your exploration. 

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is situated in the southern Highlands and encompasses the stunning Loch Lomond which is Scotland’s largest inland stretch of water. This provides a haven for those who enjoy bird watching with many species like osprey, peregrine falcons and capercaillie’s. There are countless trails for hiking, water sports and photography here. 

Flanders Moss National Nature Reserve is located in Stirling, it is home to one of the largest raised bogs in Europe. This offers a habitat like no other for rare plants like sundews and bog myrtle as well as a variety of bird species like hen harriers, merlins and short-eared owls. Boardwalks here allow for visitors to explore these beautiful ecosystems and marvel and the uniqueness. 

Isle of May National Nature Reserve is found just off the coast of Fife and it is the haven in Scotland for sea birds. It hosts breeding colonies of puffins, guillemots, razorbills and many others. You can take a boat trip to the islands to observe the birds in their natural habitat and it can offer some outstanding photo opportunities. 

 
RSPB Loch Leven located in Kinross is a renowned reserve which surrounds Loch Leven. This is a freshwater Loch and you can cycle right around here and then stop off for lunch at the wonderful Loch Levens Larder. The reserve offers a special haven for numerous bird species such as whooper swans, pink-footed geese and various species of ducks. There is a wonderful visitors centre here with lots of information and very helpful staff. 

Isle of Arran is one of our favourite places to visit out of the islands. It is situated just off the west coast and is known for its diverse landscapes including mountains, woodlands and coastal areas. The island is home to red deer, otters, seals and birds. Why not head off on the Wildlife trail with allows you to explore the natural beauty and learn as you go. 

 
If preserving and biodiversity is an interest to you why not head over to one of these reserves on your holiday and take some time to explore the work that is being carried out to protect and promote these special areas. Everyone who visits, donates and shares the word is helping to protect our country's reserves and that is so vitally important to everyone of us.