Scottish National Heritage - The Nature of Scotland Winter 2011 Issue 14

www.snh.gov.
uk
Scottish Natural Heritage
Winter 2011
The Nature of Scotland
Protecting
our seas
Selecting sites to conserve
Outdoors
is cool
Teens and the
great outdoors
Wild at heart
Creating a map of wildness
Contents
Features
8 Selecting sites in

Scotlands seas

Developing a network of marine

protected areas
32
12
39
14
30
58
14 The nature of youth

Research into young people and

the outdoors
26 Design of the times

Urban design to benefit both

people and wildlife
28 Little forces of nature

Renewables help to cut energy

costs and carbon
Regulars
2

Where we are
SNH contact details
Welcome
Wild calendar
Where to go and what to see
this winter
32 Beaver diary

Reflections on a visit to the beaver

release trial
48 Catch and dispatch

Major scheme to remove breeding

mink in the north
50 Skill seekers

Volunteering to develop new skills

and job prospects
18 News
24 Inspired by nature

Show and tell whats inspired

you?
56 Gateway to Scotlands

environment

New website makes information

available to all
30 Dualchas coitcheann

/Common heritage

Linking language and environment
58 Mapping wildness

Producing a map of Scotlands

wild land
36 Reserve focus

Discover Loch Leven NNR
42 Area news

Reports from round the country
46 Events diary

Guide to whats on
64 Mailing list

Make sure you always receive

a copy
www.snh.gov.uk
Credits
The Magazine of Scottish Natural Heritage
Issue Number 14 Winter 2011
Published quarterly
SNH 2011
ISSN 1350 309X
Where we are
Area offices
You can contact SNH by

letter, telephone or email.
The following details
should enable you to find
your nearest main office,
but bear in mind that we
also have a number of
offices smaller than those
listed.
Forth
The Beta Centre,
Innovation Park,
University of Stirling,
Stirling FK9 4NF
Tel. 01786 450 362
Editor: John Walters

Tel. 01463 725 222
A full list of our offices

appears on the SNH
website: www.snh.gov.uk
Cover photo: Wild cherries.

Photographer: Lorne Gill/SNH
Corporate
headquarters
Inside cover photo: Winter woodland.

Welcome page: Evening light, Cairngorms National Park.
Photography all images by Lorne Gill/SNH other than: Laurie Campbell
5, 6; Laurie Campbell/SNH 11, 18, 42m; Niall Benvie 7m, 48; Paul Kay/SNH/
MNCR 10; Sue Scott 8, 12; Tony Watson/Alamy 14; Hugh Harrop 19; Lorne
Gill/SNH/2020vision 20, 32, 33, 34, 35l, 35r; Concern for Swifts, Scotland
27t; Mark Hamblin 30; WDCS/Sarah Dolman 42r; Estelle Gill 43r; Allan Devlin
44l; SNH 44m; Peter Ladell 44r; Sarah Atkinson 49; George Logan 52, 53.
Illustrations 26, 27b - Michael Bryan, Heriot-Watt University.
Map, 37 Fitzpatrick Woolmer.
Based on Ordnance Survey mapping. Crown copyright
and database right 2011. All rights reserved.
Ordnance Survey Licence number SNH 100017908.
To share your views about The Nature of Scotland or suggest articles for
future issues please contact the editor:
SNH Magazine
Great Glen House, Leachkin Road,
Inverness IV3 8NW
Email: editor@snh.gov.uk
The views expressed in this magazine do not
necessarily reflect those of SNH.
Printed by: J Thomson Colour Printers, Glasgow
JTCP31k0112
When youve finished with this magazine, please recycle it. Pass it to
another reader or dispose of it at your local waste-collection point.
Great Glen House,

Leachkin Road,
Inverness IV3 8NW
Tel. 01463 725 000
Email: enquiries@snh.gov.uk
Other main offices

Battleby,
Redgorton,
Perth PH1 3EW
Tel. 01738 444 177
Silvan House,
3rd Floor East,
231 Corstorphine Road,
Edinburgh EH12 7AT
Tel. 0131 316 2600
Caspian House,
Mariner Court,
Clydebank Business Park,
Clydebank G81 2NR
Tel. 0141 951 4488
Forth
Silvan House,
3rd Floor East,
231 Corstorphine Road,
Edinburgh EH12 7AT
Tel. 0131 316 2600
Southern Scotland
Carmont House,
The Crichton,
Bankend Road,
Dumfries DG1 4ZF
Tel. 01387 247 010
Northern Isles
& North Highland
Ground Floor,
Stewart Building,
Alexandra Wharf,
Lerwick,
Shetland ZE1 0LL
Tel. 01595 693 345
Northern Isles
& North Highland
The Links,
Golspie Business Park,
Golspie,
Sutherland KW10 6UB
Tel. 01408 634 063
South Highland
Fodderty Way,
Dingwall Business Park,
Dingwall IV15 9XB
Tel. 01349 865 333
South Highland
The Governors House,
The Parade,
Fort William,
Inverness-shire PH33 6BA
Tel. 01397 704 716
Argyll & Outer Hebrides
32 Francis Street,
Stornoway,
Isle of Lewis HS1 2ND
Tel. 01851 705 258
Tayside & Grampian
Inverdee House,
Baxter Street,
Torry,
Aberdeen AB11 9QA
Tel. 01224 266 500
Tayside & Grampian
Battleby,
Redgorton,
Perth PH1 3EW
Tel. 01738 444 177
Strathclyde & Ayrshire
Caspian House,
Mariner Court,
Clydebank Business Park,
Clydebank G81 2NR
Tel. 0141 951 4488
Welcome
Andrew Thin
Chairman
www.snh.gov.uk
It would be easy to succumb to depression this winter. Economic threats and

uncertainties stalk the land. Unemployment is on the rise, while living standards
for most of us are falling. Public service providers such as SNH are struggling
to meet customer expectations in the face of sustained budget cuts and rising
inflation. Winter in an age of austerity is a miserable season. Or is it?
I have always loved winter in Scotland. Its a time to be particularly grateful that
we do not live in one of the flat, drab landscapes that afflict so much of Europe.
Even in our most industrialised areas, there are tantalising glimpses of snowcovered hills to be seen along the horizon. And a short journey by bus or car will
take you out into fresh and vibrant open spaces.
Once there, youll experience an intensity of light and colour that even the
finest of artists have never quite been able to capture. Youll see (and hear)
wintering birds that come down in their millions from the north to enjoy our
hospitality and enliven our days. Cold, clean air will clear your head and leave you
with a buzz to surpass anything that artificial stimulants might offer.
If youre quiet, you may see some of Scotlands many native mammals out
hunting for a meal. On cold days you may come across patterns in the frost and
ice that no hand of man could ever emulate. Sometimes, at night, the sky will be
so clear that you can pick out individual craters on the moon. Meteors will surprise
and delight you. The aurora borealis (northern lights) may even put on a display.
Scotlands natural world is an asset for us to wonder at and to prize. Its the
product of countless generations who have cared for and laboured on the land.
Its a man-made landscape, but no less natural for that. It makes Scotland the
country that it is, and it makes us Scots the people that we are. Without it we
really would be poor and we would indeed have reason to be depressed.
But we do have it, and neither recession nor austerity can take it away from us.
Whatever happens to our economy, we have riches on our doorstep, and theyre
available to all.
Wild calendar
Kenny Taylor gives
some seasonal
tips for savouring
Scottish wildlife
and landscapes
When a thousand rooks are silhouetted above bare trees in the

afterglow of an early sunset, when frost makes ice flowers on
glass and puddles, when an otter makes pawprints along the
snowy beach at first light and the robin sings for hours beneath
the streetlights you could be there, to feel the wildness that is all
around, in the heart of the Scottish winter.
Shores without end
Shapeshifters
For its size, Scotland has a remarkable length of coast.

Take into account all the wave-washed ins and outs, from
sea loch fringes and island edges to cliffs and long, long
beaches. Now picture this as a single line of seashells.
It would stretch from here to Indonesia.
So theres plenty of choice. And it would be a shame to
restrict coastal visits to summer (as some folk do). I relish
grey winter days when I can walk among dunes at the Sands
of Forvie or the beaches of Fife. Or when I can stride out for
hours over shingle strands, mudflats and cliff-tops along the
Moray Coastal Trail, anywhere between Forres and Cullen.
Wildlife seen on days like these is a bonus, and is all
the sweeter for being unexpected. For the most important
thing is an almost primal response to how light and air, sea
and land are linked; how they feel as you breathe in the
freshness. That and the notion that no matter how far you
walk, Scotland will always have more coast to explore.
The move from day to dusk can be beautiful at any time of

year. Thats one of the benefits of living in a northern country.
No sudden switch, tropics-style, to deep dark, but a more
subtle sequence of tones.
Add a swirl of starlings and you have the makings of a
classic winters evening. Even a small bunch of these birds
can look good, as a flock sweeps and shapeshifts over a
bridge, buildings or reedbed used as a roost.
Encounter a roost that holds tens of thousands of
starlings and the pleasure is multiplied. To me, the sight of
the avian aerobatics at a mega-roost is one of the worlds
greatest wildlife spectacles.
Starling numbers have plummeted in recent years across
Europe and North America. Luckily, you can still enjoy large
Scottish roost displays in some places, including near Gretna.
For more modest gatherings, watch for birds that use the
reedbeds in the River Tay, near Newport, or that go to spend
the night in the heart of Inverness and some other cities.
Web tip: www.morayways.org.uk/moray-coast-trail.asp

Web tip: www.countryfile.com/countryside/top-fivestarling-roosts
4
Winter
www.snh.gov.uk
Hot wigeon and long-tailed cool

While plants generally dull down for winter (holly being a notable exception),
wildfowl dont follow those rules. Male ducks often have superb plumage in late
winter.
Thats when the drakes are geared up for courting. Freshly feathered and
coloured, they make their moves (mostly on water) to woo the dowdier females,
whose plumage is more camouflaged. Not surprisingly, given its prominence in an
up-close display, a drakes head often has some of the most impressive colours.
Male wigeon, for example, have chestnut-coloured cheeks and a rakish yellow
strip that runs from the beak, over the crown and down to the neck. Long-tailed
ducks take a cooler approach, looking elegant with tones of black, white and
charcoal on the head, rounded off with an upswept curve of tail plumes.
Hides beside estuary nature reserves such as the Scottish Wildlife Trusts
at Montrose Basin, the RSPBs at Udale Bay or the Wildfowl and Wetland Trusts
at Caerlaverock can be excellent for watching winter wigeon. For long-tails, my
favourite place is Orkneys Sound of Eynhallow, just offshore from the Iron Age
Broch of Gurness.
Web tips: www.montrosebasin.org.uk/index.php
http://scottishislands.posterous.com/archive/3/2011
1
Scotland holds the
bulk of Britains
coastal sand dunes.
Theyre important for
wildlife and can also be
a fine backdrop to a
winter beach walk.
2
No matter how often
you see a starling
roost, the variety and
rapid changes of flock
patterns will amaze.
3
A drake wigeon may
meet an old partner or
mate with a new one
before the pair leaves a
wintering area.
4
When broadleaved
trees are bare of
leaves, it can be easier
to focus in on the finer,
attractive details of
their branches, twigs
and bark.
Naked appreciation
How familiar are you with your local

broadleaves? Wherever you are, its a
fair bet that there will be broadleaves
not too far away. They might be tiny,
such as the dwarf trees on some
uplands and islands. They might not
be natives, such as the countless
sycamores in urban areas.
Winter is a great time to get
acquainted with some broadleaves.
That might seem surprising, as theyll
be bare of leaves. But the benefit of
winter tree appreciation is that you can
see more readily many details of bark,
branch and twig that might otherwise
escape you in the leafiness of other
seasons.
You could use winter as a time
to look for buds on twigs, and then
begin to learn from their shape and
arrangement what the tree is called.
Or, quite simply, you could just enjoy
the shapes and tones of winter trees.
Snow on a filigree of rowan
branches; the pale, grey elegance of
alder and ash; the patterns of birch
bark: these are all on display right now,
perhaps not so far away.
Web tip: www.bbc.co.uk/nature/
animals/wildbritain/field_guides/
tree_id.shtml
Some other things to look for in winter:

Snow buntings; east coast dunes; the colour of Scots pine trunks in the evening;
icicles and frozen falls; patterns of dry grasses and flowerheads against snow.
www.snh.gov.uk
Fishermen, environmentalists and renewables developers

are among those getting involved in developing a network
of new marine protected areas around Scotland
Selecting sites in
Scotlands seas
1
The fan mussel is the
largest mollusc found
in Scottish waters.
Scotlands largest seashell anchors itself to the

seabed with silken threads so golden that its
thought they were once used to decorate the
robes of kings.
The fan mussel has strong threads so fine that they can
attach to a single grain of sand and so like human hair
that superstitious seamen believed the creatures fed upon
drowned sailors.
These fan-shaped bivalves grow up to 48 cm long, living
with their pointed end buried in the seabed and only the
wider, gaping part sticking out, so that the mussel inside can
filter seawater for food.
The fan mussel is one of Britains most endangered
molluscs today and in Scotland its a priority marine feature.
Over a period of 20 years, only a handful of scattered live fan
mussels were recorded in our seas. Then, in 2009, Marine
Scotland scientists on a routine survey recorded footage
showing dozens of the animals at a site in the Small Isles,
just south of Skye.
Projecting from the seabed, these fragile molluscs are
easily damaged or smothered, and the fan mussel is a
species that marine biologists believe could benefit from
the protection of a nature conservation marine protected
area (MPA).
In 2010, scientists returned to the Small Isles to chart the
newly discovered fan mussel population and other wildlife
in the area, including northern feather stars and burrowed
mud. What they found surprised and excited everyone
involved. The Small Isles fan mussel population was larger
than expected, totalling well over 100 individuals, and its the
largest known population in UK waters.
www.snh.gov.uk
Marine surveys
This was the first in an extensive programme of marine
surveys funded by Marine Scotland as part of the Scottish
MPA project, which is a joint initiative between Marine
Scotland, Historic Scotland, the Joint Nature Conservation
Committee and SNH. The project aims to advise ministers
on MPA selection, helping Scotland to meet international
commitments to establish a network of MPAs in its waters.
Survey teams further explored marine wildlife around the
Small Isles in 2011 and also collected acoustic multibeam
data. These data are being used to create detailed threedimensional maps of the seabed and to help scientists
understand the areas rocks and landforms, as well as its
marine life.
Eighteen marine surveys have taken place around
Scotland since 2010, at locations including Orkney, the
Minch, the Clyde Sea and the outer Firth of Forth. The
surveys are just one part of an extensive programme of work
being carried out as part of the Scottish MPA project.
The findings from the surveys are helping to improve
our knowledge of the fantastic variety of life in Scotlands
seas, explained Dominic Counsell, head of SNHs coastal
and marine unit. This will enable us to give the best possible
advice to government and others on the development
of Scotlands MPA network and other future marine
developments.
Although its science led, Scotlands MPA network is
being developed along with others with an interest in marine
matters. Together with our project partners, weve designed
a process that gives those with an interest the chance to
comment in the very early stages, almost as soon as the
options are identified, added Dominic.
2
10
Possible locations
2
Marine surveys help
scientists to
understand the
distribution of wildlife
and habitats in
Scotlands seas.
3
Waters around the
Small Isles are one
of the initial search
locations for new
MPAs.
www.snh.gov.uk
One key part of this partnership approach is a series of

national MPA workshops with all those who have an interest.
Weve asked folk to comment on the evidence being used
to support the selection of MPAs and on some of the initial
work to assess possible sites, Dominic continued.
Things took a big step forward at the end of October.
We presented those who came along to the workshops with
some initial thinking on 30 locations from which it might be
appropriate to develop MPAs, and asked for their feedback
on the places they thought were worth a further look.
These initial areas, including the Small Isles, are known as
MPA search locations. The locations range from the Clyde
sea lochs up to Fetlar in Shetland, as well as offshore areas
such as the FaroeShetland Channel and Rosemary Bank
Seamount (approximately 120 km northwest of Scotland).
The locations contain a wide range of marine features that
are important for conservation, including seabed habitats
such as flame shell beds, species such as sand eels and
landform features such as glaciated troughs.
This is the first time in Scotland that weve asked those
with an interest for their feedback so early in the process of
11
selecting protected areas, Dominic noted.

The response was very pleasing. We had a range
of interests, including fishermens representatives,
environmental groups and marine renewables developers, all
sat round tables discussing the merits of different sea lochs
and locations for protecting common skate. The comments
were constructive and will help us move on to the next stage
of the process.
More locations will be discussed at another workshop
in February, when those attending will be asked to consider
options for some larger popular species, including minke
whales, white-beaked dolphins, basking sharks and black
guillemots. Most of these have not previously been included
within protected areas in Scotland.
There are significant challenges in setting up protected
areas for some of these species, added Dominic. We want
to focus on the important areas for these animals. These
could be feeding areas, nursery areas or areas that are
used for courtship or breeding. In this way, the MPAs can
deliver real benefits to some of Scotlands most outstanding
marine life.
From spring onwards, discussions will be opened out
to bring in more local interest groups and communities.
And by the end of 2012, the Scottish MPA project will report
to the Scottish Parliament on progress in developing the
MPA network. All MPA proposals will be subject to
12-week formal consultations.
For more information on the Scottish MPA project, visit:
www.snh.gov.uk/marine-protected-areas
www.jncc.gov.uk/marineprotectedareas
www.scotland.gov.uk/marinescotland/mpanetwork
the MPAs can

deliver real benefits
to some of Scotlands
most outstanding
marine life.
4
Flame shells build
nests that provide a
home for many marine
creatures.
5
Black guillemots could
be protected by the
new MPA network.
12
www.snh.gov.uk
13
14
New research has revealed that, contrary to popular belief, most

young people actually have a healthy appetite for the outdoors
The nature of youth

Todays teenagers have a reputation for spending too much of their
free time indoors, where they may while away the hours watching
television, surfing the internet or playing computer games.
But new research (undertaken by Scott Porter Research and Marketing on behalf
of SNH) shows that young people in Scotland actually have a healthy appetite for
the outdoors and enjoy taking part in various activities.
The survey of young people aged 11 to 17 found that more than 80% of them
like to spend some of their free time outdoors every week, and a similar proportion
would like to do so more often.
According to the young people who took part in the research, visiting the
outdoors provides opportunities for fun, enjoyment and adventure, as well as a
chance to spend time with friends.
You always feel brilliant after being outside, remarked one of them. I feel
rotten when Im in all day. Its definitely good being out, its just refreshing.
But the main benefit it offers is a place for young people to enjoy quality
personal time and space to themselves. These are things that they often feel
theyre missing out on because of the demands on their time associated with
school work, home life, part-time jobs and other extracurricular activities.
The outdoors is pretty important. If I dont get away from the house for at
least a wee while Ill probably go a wee bit crazy inside, was how one described
it. You can get quite claustrophobic sometimes, if youre just in the house
revising all day.
Time to escape
For many young people, the unstructured nature of the outdoors represents a
physical and emotional escape from lives dominated by heavy schedules. Its a
place to wind down, relax and clear their heads, either by taking part in an activity
or by simply stretching their legs and getting some fresh air.
I walk around the forest. It gives you time to think put your iPod on and just
walk, was a typical response.
Spending time with friends is at the heart of young peoples enjoyment of and
willingness to take part in outdoor (and indoor) activities. When this is coupled
with the freedom to do so without adult supervision, then young people feel
liberated from rules and responsibilities. Theyre more empowered and selfassured about making choices about what they want to do in their free time.
Time to socialise with your pals is the main thing, commented one. Its fun
being away from everybody in the countryside, having a laugh, with no-one telling
you what to do.
While adults (parents and school) do feature in visits to the outdoors,
activities undertaken without adults are often enjoyed more. It feels like you have
the power to do anything, as youre in control of yourself, of what you do. Its just
so amazing to have the power to do whatever you want, was a general attitude.
Over the last year, the young people surveyed had taken part in and enjoyed
various different outdoor experiences. Often these were simple, unstructured,
everyday activities such as walking the dog, playing in the park or going for a
picnic the sorts of things that are easy to access and have no cost attached.
www.snh.gov.uk
1
Young people like to
spend time in the
outdoors without adult
supervision.
2
Having personal time
and space to
themselves away
from school, home and
other commitments
is important to young
people.
15
Specialist pursuits
But theres clearly also an appetite for more specialist, activity-based pursuits
such as snowboarding, mountain biking, camping and water skiing. Levels of
interest and participation in both simple pleasures and activity-based pursuits are
similar, but when it comes down to what young people enjoy most, the activitybased pursuits have the edge.
Many of the young people surveyed also expressed a keen interest in trying
new outdoor activities, especially those they considered to be more adventurous
and physically challenging or less accessible, perhaps owing to cost, location or
the need for special equipment.
Id like to try canoeing, its quite adventurous, commented one teenager.
I think it would be nerve-racking, but it would be amazing. And another
confided, Id love to try snowboarding. I think I would like to have the courage
to do something like that, just to push you out of your comfort zone.
Young peoples visits to the outdoors reduce with age, and increased school
commitments among older teenagers are a major factor in this decline. Some
older teenage girls also become exposed to more barriers than their male peers.
16
3
Spending time with
friends is at the heart
of young folks
enjoyment of the
outdoors.
4
Simple, easy-toaccess pastimes, such
as going for a walk or
playing with friends in
the park, are enjoyed
by many young people.
5
Most young folk are
keen to have new
experiences, and
adventurous activitybased pursuits are at
the top of the list of
things that theyd like
to try.
Its fun being away

from everyone in the
countryside, having a
laugh, with no-one telling
you what to do.
These include fewer opportunities to go out unaccompanied,

a resistance to getting sweaty or dirty, fear of losing face in a
competitive environment and the need to find an activity that
suits everyone in their social group.
Among this group, encouraging a shift in focus to simple
outdoor pleasures (which are typically non-physical, noncompetitive and easily accessible) may well help to reduce
the drop in interest.
This research shows that theres a real chance to
harness the very natural enthusiasm that young people
have for the outdoors and to ensure that they continue to
have opportunities to enjoy existing pastimes and try new
activities.
Its vital to provide relevant information through
appropriate channels on things to do and places to go.
Friends, parents and school are important sources of
information, but its also clear from the research that social
media and technology (such as Facebook or mobile phone
apps), which are now a central part of many young peoples
everyday lives, also have a role to play.
The fact remains that young people lead highly structured
and heavily scheduled lives. As a result, competition for their
much valued down time presents SNH and our partners
with a big challenge.
The overwhelming advantage of the outdoors is that it
offers young people an environment where they can relax
and recharge, while also providing as much fun if not more
as watching TV or sleeping in at the weekend. In addition,
it offers something for everyone regardless of who they are,
where they live or how much pocket money they get.
You can view the Enjoying the outdoors attitudes and
behaviours of young people in Scotland report at www.snh.
gov.uk/publications-data-and-research/publications
www.snh.gov.uk
17
NEWS
Year of the deer
Deer are the wildlife species that the public associate most with Scotland,
according to a recent survey.
Over 1,000 people were asked about their views on species, habitats and
wildlife management, and almost three-quarters (73%) of those who responded
said they associated deer with Scotland.
The survey, commissioned by SNH, showed that awareness tends to be
concentrated on a few species, with 27% of the Scottish public also linking
golden eagles with Scotland, 26% grouse and 25% red squirrels.
Awareness figures for the red squirrel and the Scottish wildcat have increased
significantly from earlier surveys, and this may be down to both animals receiving
more publicity over the summer period.
Among those who expressed concern about threats to wildlife, the largest
grouping (37%) worried about the fate of red squirrels.
The majority of the people surveyed felt that wildlife was managed in a way
that represented the best interests of Scotlands people, and many supported
the reintroduction of species. Among the species that have been brought back to
Scotland in recent years are red kites, white-tailed sea eagles and beavers.
18
Your help is being sought by scientists at the University of St Andrews in a bid to

solve the mystery of the way in which whales communicate.
Researchers from the universitys Sea Mammal Research Unit (SMRU) want
curious citizen scientists across the world to listen to and help classify the calls
of killer whales and the lesser known pilot whales.
St Andrews SMRU is one of the partners in the Whale Project
(http://whale.fm), which is a global effort to harness the interest of the
general public to help categorise whale calls.
Its hoped that the results of this worldwide crowd-sourcing project will give
important new insights into the range of calls that whale populations use and the
way vocal traditions vary across different groups of whales.
The Whale Project website has calls from both killer whales (pictured below)
and pilot whales. If you log on, youre presented with a whale call and shown
where it was recorded on a map of the worlds oceans and seas. After listening to
the whale call, youre then asked to listen to a number of potential matching calls
from the projects database. If you find a match, you click on that sound and the
results are stored.
Only a few researchers have categorised whale calls, says Professor Peter
Tyack of the University of St Andrews. By asking hundreds of people to make
similar judgments, well learn how reliable the categories are, and they get the fun
of hearing these amazing sounds.
The results generated by this project will enable scientists to look at a number
of questions about whale communication. For example, biologists studying killer
whales report that each group has its own distinctive dialect of calls, with related
groups having dialects that are more similar. The Whale Project asks you to test
these results by making your own judgments on the similarity between calls.
Much less is known about the calls of pilot whales than of killer whales.
Researchers want to know the size of the collection of calls that pilot whales have
and whether the range of calls varies between groups, as it does in killer whales.
www.snh.gov.uk
NEWS
Can you distinguish dialects?
19
NEWS
20
Hidden benefits of peatlands

The UKs peatlands are leaking huge amounts of carbon dioxide, which is making
it harder to tackle climate change, a report has warned.
The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) said that
peatlands were the Cinderella of Britains wildlife resource, as they were badly
treated and their importance was poorly understood.
Peatlands cover less than 3% of the Earths land surface but are thought to
contain 30% of all soil carbon, or twice as much carbon as the worlds forests.
They form as plants die and decay in waterlogged conditions.
Within the UK, peatlands represent the single most important carbon store,
with deep peat bogs containing over 3,200 million tonnes of carbon. Scotland
holds around half of the UKs peatland carbon.
The report (www.iucn-uk-peatlandprogramme.org/commission/findings)
found that many of the UKs peatlands have been damaged, and a significant
amount of carbon is leaking into the atmosphere from drained and deteriorating
peatlands.
Damaged UK peatlands are releasing almost 3.7 million tonnes of carbon
dioxide each year, which is equivalent to the average emissions of around
660,000 UK households.
The report highlights the need to protect healthy peatlands and work to
restore areas that have been damaged. The carbon thats stored in peatlands
can be maintained only if they remain wet or are made wet again when theyve
dried out.
Weve always had a strong environmental case for investing in peatlands,
commented Jonathan Hughes, director of conservation at the Scottish Wildlife
Trust. This IUCN publication provides us with a clear and compelling economic
case too.
NEWS
Scots are big nature lovers

The results of a YouGov survey show that the Scottish public have a deep
affection for nature.
A sample of Scottish adults found that 9 in 10 (90%) enjoy seeing and
hearing birds in their garden or local park. Some 89% of the public see
Scotlands celebrated woodland creatures, such as red squirrels and capercaillie,
as part of Scottish culture and agree that they help make our countryside special.
Other interesting results include:
83% agree its important that rare birds living on our grasslands, such as the
corncrake, dont become extinct in Scotland;
80% like to see butterflies and want to see more of them in the countryside;
86% think an important part of the Scottish uplands is seeing and hearing wild
birds and would like to see more; and
84% want to see otters in all of Scotlands rivers.
The survey also revealed what the public think the priorities are in terms
of the natural heritage that we pass on to the next generation. While Scots
might complain about the rain, were a nation that loves its watery environment.
When asked about the importance of protecting the quality of places for future
generations, Scots revealed that rivers and lochs are the most highly valued,
followed by our coast and beaches.
And finally, the top five wish list of things people wanted to see for the
Scottish environment were:

clean waters around the coast;

litter-free beaches;
well-maintained parks in towns and cities;
wild salmon living in Scotlands rivers; and
an end to bird-of-prey persecution.
You can find the reports at www.snh.gov.uk/about-snh/what-we-do/

scottish-economy/economic-value
www.snh.gov.uk
21
NEWS
Disappearing mallards
Its one of Scotlands most familiar waterbirds, regularly seen on our ponds and
lochs, as well as being a favourite in urban parks. However, a new report has
revealed that Scotlands wintering mallard population has almost halved in the
past 30 years.
The latest population figures appear in the State of the UKs Birds 2011, an
annual report published by a group of conservation organisations. It provides an
overview of bird numbers and trends across the UK.
The mallard population is bolstered each winter by birds coming in from north
and eastern Europe. However, it has recorded one of the biggest losses in recent
years, with winter populations down by some 46% in Scotland since 1982 and
32% since 1998.
Other species found regularly in Scotland that have declined since 1998
include the pochard (about 70% down), goldeneye (some 53% down),
Greenland white-fronted goose (about 40% down) and dunlin (some 27% down).
The reasons for these changes are not immediately clear. However, results
from monitoring schemes in other parts of Europe have shown that theyre likely
to be partly explained by some birds not migrating as far west or south, because
of milder conditions elsewhere.
However, the downward trend isnt universal. Wintering numbers of wigeon,
gadwall, teal and pink-footed geese have all increased over the same period.
Scotland has some of the most important wetland sites in the UK for birds,
commented Stuart Housden, RSPB Scotland director. These are home to vital
populations of waders and waterbirds, and provide valuable feeding ground for
millions of migrating birds.
The fact that fewer of these winter visitors are reaching the UK may well
point to progressively milder winter conditions farther north and east across
Europe.Its a reminder that we still have much to learn about the long-term
impacts of climate change and the effects for wildlife across the globe.
22
If youre in an organisation or community group thats running a project to do

with managing and enjoying nature, then you may be interested in our new online
grants service.
You can access information and advice about SNH grants on our website
www.snh.gov.uk and even apply for one online. This new facility should make it
easier for groups to apply for SNH funding and to have a clear understanding of
where our priorities lie.
Were keen to support projects across Scotland that help to engage people
with nature, improve the management of nature and landscapes or create better
places in the Central Scotland Green Network area.
Were also interested to hear about projects that seek to improve the
management of wildlife. For example, we could help Scotland to save money in
the long term by supporting schemes that aim to tackle the problems of invasive
non-native species before they get established.
We want to back projects that are novel and targeted at key groups, such
as young people, individuals with poor health and people on low incomes.
Were also supportive of projects that address barriers to people taking part,
such as poor health, age and lack of confidence.
There are two types of grants available:
NEWS
Click on grants
Natural project grants are aimed at larger-scale, longer-term projects valued at

10,000 and more. To begin with, wed like applicants to send in a proposal,
and if were interested in finding out more, well invite you to submit an
application. The next deadline for applications is expected to be May 2012.
Community action grants are aimed at projects of 12 months or less and
valued at between 1,000 and 20,000. Theyre intended to get more people
and communities involved in outdoor recreation, volunteering, outdoor learning
and recording nature or biodiversity work. Applications are expected to open
early in 2012 and you can send one in at any time after that.
If youd like more information on SNH grants, visit our web page at
www.snh.gov.uk/funding/our-grants
www.snh.gov.uk
23
Inspired
by nature
Thanks to those readers who sent
in another batch of fine photos, from
which weve selected a few to display
here. Please keep them coming.
Email your images and stories to
editor@snh.gov.uk
24
1 Gannets galore
I took this picture on St Kilda when I was working

on a passenger boat. One summer evening we
were tasked with an overnight charter to Kilda.
It was just getting dark, the cloud was setting in
around the islands and the birds were involved
in a feeding frenzy around Boreray, so I took the
opportunity to take a few snaps with my digital
camera. St Kilda is spectacular no matter when
you go there, but that particular evening was
definitely something very special indeed.
Coinneach Morrison, Isle of Scalpay,
Western Isles
2 Mover and shaker

I went to the Galloway Forest during the rut in
October. I was pleased there was an excellent
hide there to shelter in so as not to disturb the
deer and also to keep dry! The ranger was there
to give background information on the red deer,
and her talk about the rut and how the deer are
managed was very informative. It was pouring
with rain, and it did not let up for the two hours
that I was there, hence the shot of the stag giving
himself a good shake to get rid of the water!
Suzanne Storm, Lochmaben, near Dumfries
3 Golden moment
One fine day this summer I could not believe
my luck when three red admiral butterflies
alighted on a golden sunflower in my garden.
Mike Gibb, Aberdeen
4 Fairies bonnets
We came across this ash tree skirted with
beautiful little toadstools when we visited Morvern
in August. The location was the Fossil Burn near
Lochaline. I think the toadstools may be known as
fairies bonnets.
Juliet Molyneux, Haslington, Cheshire
Give us your best!

If youd like to send in your images and
stories of wild encounters, please email
them to editor@snh.gov.uk.
Remember to include your name, where
you live and some background information
on any pictures submitted. Please restrict
yourself to only three entries per person
per issue. If youre sending in photos that
have children in them, then we need written
permission from a parent or guardian of
each child in the picture.
In contributing to The Nature of
Scotland, you agree to grant us royalty-free,
non-exclusive use of your material in any
way we want and in any media.
However, youll still own the copyright
to everything you contribute, and well
aim to print your name alongside anything
published. SNH cannot guarantee that all
pictures will be used and we reserve the
right to edit any material provided.
www.snh.gov.uk
25
A UK design competition aims to promote and support

designs that emphasise nature in the built environment
Design of
the times
Is it really possible to have high-quality urban design thats good for

both people and wildlife?
Thats the challenge a new competition sets, and the answer seems to be a
resounding yes based on the standard of this years entries.
All too often, wildlife and biodiversity are left on the fringes when
developments are being planned, according to Dusty Gedge, the UKs
leading living roofs campaigner and one of the people behind the competition.
Nature only gets slotted in towards the end of a project, and frequently only
where space allows.
More often than not, this results in hastily thought through and poorly
connected fragments of green space, which dont serve the needs of
communities as well as they might.
The Integrated Habitat Design Competition was set up to champion the need
to fit in more of the green alongside the push for the grey. And while this is
undoubtedly good for the birds and the bees, it also benefits people and makes
business sense.
For example, a recent study has shown that having more green spaces in our
towns and cities improves peoples health and well-being through positive effects
on obesity, mental health, circulatory disease, chronic stress and asthma.
26
Its easy to see how everyone benefits from cleaner air

and access to greenery, but the economic benefits are clear
too. Housing developments that include green infrastructure
can increase property prices significantly (by up to 25%
in some cases). This is good news for both developers
and home owners, as well as improving the chances of
regenerating the local economy and attracting inward
investment.
For example, landscape improvements at Riverside
Business Park in Clydebank and Winsford attracted
1 million in private investment and played a part in boosting
job numbers by 16% and 13% respectively.
More trees and a bit more green space can also help to
reduce water run-off and the risk of flooding. And using more
natural drainage systems (such as reed beds and channels
with plants in them) often proves to be more effective and
cheaper to maintain than using concrete or pipe ones.
The competition saw designers from all over the UK
come up with some creative and innovative solutions for
primary schools, offices and brownfield sites from green
walls to living roofs, and floating houses to rain gardens.
All of which led to lively discussion for the judging panel,
which included Phil Baarda, one of SNHs advisers on
woodlands and green networks.
Im glad to say that Scotland produced the winning
entry, remarked Phil. Its for a proposed development in
Leith that involves a five hectare former train and tram depot
providing 120 affordable houses. The design includes waste
water recycling, a community market and gardens, along
with a combined heat and power generator. It still manages
to retain some of the original sites key features, such as
Victorian workshops and chimney stacks.
And one of the highly commended entries also had a
Scottish pedigree. It was for some deceptively low-key swift
nesting boxes that have been elegantly incorporated into the
gable ends of existing houses in Holytown near Motherwell.
Its a great example of the big benefits that can come from
small and simple ideas.
The competition will be running again in 2012.
For more details and to see this years winners and
finalists, go to http://ihdc.org.uk. For more information
on the Central Scotland Green Network, see
http://centralscotlandgreennetwork.org.
1
Sunshine on Leith?
The designers
impression of how the
former train or tram
depot could look.
2
Low key but highly
effective a triangular
swift box under the
eaves in Holytown,
near Motherwell.
3
Common and garden
the Leith proposals
multifunctional
communal allotments.
1 Community vegetable plots

2 Beehives and flowerbed
3 Passive stack ventilation chimneys
4 Solar-buffer balconies
5 Rainwater collection butts
6 Worm and compost storage
4
5
2
5
6
www.snh.gov.uk
27
Solar panels, hydro schemes and wind

turbines are all part of a programme
thats helping SNH cut energy costs
and tackle climate change
Little forces of nature

For many years now, SNH have been advising on the impacts that renewable
energy projects might have. We provide advice that aims to support schemes of
the right scale in the right location.
Our support for renewable energy recognises the vital role that it can play
in tackling climate change. Were also well aware that renewable energy
offers valuable opportunities for rural communities and the Scottish economy
as a whole.
Through time weve built up a lot of knowledge about the benefits and
potential pitfalls of these types of developments, and weve taken the plunge
ourselves to establish renewable energy schemes across our properties.
Weve now installed and use renewable energy at many of our own offices,
visitor centres and nature reserves.
These schemes are helping us to become a truly low-carbon organisation.
As a result, in 2009 we were generating over 1,100,000 kWh of renewable
energy and saving over a quarter of a million kilograms of carbon dioxide!
We know that being a greener and low-carbon organisation fits well with
economic incentives to become a more efficient one and so give better value for
public money, commented Joe Moore, SNHs director of corporate services.
Our greening and carbon priorities are focused on reducing energy and
work travel, as well as creating greener buildings and encouraging more sharing
of properties. Were also making sure that energy efficiency is at the heart of
what we do.
2
1
Solar panels on the
roof of our Isle of May
NNR office.
2
A new hydro scheme is
about to be installed at
Creag Meagaidh NNR,
near Newtonmore.
28
Renewable energy technologies are already installed

at 13 of our 40 offices some of which we share with
other organisations as well as visitor centres and other
buildings. Over 500 of our staff, across our properties,
benefit from renewable technologies supplying both heat
and electricity. This allows us to continue to work for
Scotlands natural heritage even in the darkest and coldest
of winters.
Some of our premises are fairly remote and benefit from
the additional energy supplied by free, reliable renewable
technologies. For example, the office on our Isle of May
National Nature Reserve (NNR) has solar panels; the Isle
of Rum NNR has a hydro scheme supplying 35 buildings;
and Noss NNR keeps the lights on in the visitor centre with
a micro wind turbine, and two solar water panels supply the
building with hot water.
Were currently sharing offices with other public bodies,
such as the Forestry Commission Scotland, SEPA and
www.snh.gov.uk
the Scottish Government, and this too helps to reduce our

carbon footprint. However, we aim to do more. With further
renewable technology projects planned for our Forvie NNR
centre, and more on the Isle of Rum and Creag Meagaidh
NNRs, our energy generation is likely to continue to go up
and up, while our costs and carbon emissions go spiralling
down!
So, the next time youre visiting one of our NNRs or
visitor centres, why not ask the staff if the lights above your
head are powered by the sun, a local burn or the wind that
forced you indoors!
For more information on our greening work, visit
www.snh.gov.uk/climate-change/what-snh-is-doing/
corporate-greening/
For more information on microrenewables and the
natural heritage, go to www.snh.gov.uk/planning-anddevelopment/renewable-energy/micro-renewables/
29
Dualchas coitcheann
Common heritage
30
What links the swallow and red kite with the earwig, common
clubrush and a mountain above Little Loch Broom? The answer
lies in the Gaelic word gobhal, as Ruairidh MacIlleathain explains
Gobhlaichead mr
Tha e iongantach cho pailt s a tha am facal gobhal ann an ainmean ainmhidhean, gu h-raidh ein.
Bidh a h-uile duine elach air a ghobhlan-ghaoithe (swallow) a th air ainmeachadh a rir cumadh
earbaill, ach chithear gobhal cuideachd anns a ghobhlan-ghainmhich (sand martin), an gobhlantaighe (house martin), agus anns a ghobhlan-mhr no gobhlan-dubh (swift). Agus tha na Gidheil a
danamh sgaradh eadar an gobhlan-mara (Leachs petrel) agus na luaireagan (petrels) eile air cumadh
earbaill, oir s e sin an aon t air a bheil earball gobhlach.
Tha cumadh earbaill a toirt a bhuadhair gobhlach air eun ainmeil air tr cuideachd an clamhangobhlach (red kite). Bithear ag ainmeachadh an ein seo anns an abairt coltach ri clamhan-gobhlach
am measg nan cearc, a tha co-ionann ris a Bheurla like a cat among the pigeons. Agus tha lus ann
a tha a gilain gobhlach na ainm an luachair ghobhlach no common clubrush (Schoenoplectus
palustris); tha an ceann shuas dhith, nuair a tha flraichean oirre, a coimhead rudeigin gobhlach.
Tha gobhlachan a riochdachadh duine a tha na shuidhe casa-gobhlach, ach tha e cuideachd
a seasamh airson daddy longlegs; feumaidh gur e an digh sam bi casan na frde sin a dol nan
spleadhagan as coireach ri ainm. Chan e a chasan, ach earball, as coireach ri ainm an earwig ann an
Gidhlig, ge-t. Cluinnear an d chuid gobhlachan agus gobhlag air a shon. Am measg nan ainmean
airson a leithid ann an Albais, tha d fhacal a thinig bhon Ghidhlig horny goloch agus gulack.
Agus tha gobhal a nochdadh gu tric air mapaichean na dthcha. Tha Loch na Gobhlaig ann an
Gleann Afraig agus Crn na Gobhlaig-beithe ann an taobh sear Chataibh. Tha Allt Gobhlach ann an
Arainn agus Cataibh, Doire Gobhlach sear air Cille Chuimein, Cadha Gobhlach air an Teallach ann an
Ros an Iar agus grunn eisimpleirean de Lochain Ghobhlach. Tha beinn le d mhullach An Gobhlach
ann an Cnapadal, agus s dcha gur e sin a bh air a chnoc air Sliabh Ochaill ann an Siorrachd
Pheairt air a bheil Golloch Hill ann am Beurla an-diugh.
S dcha gur i an t-ite as ainmeile co-cheangailte ris an fhacal A Bheinn Ghobhlach eadar Loch
Bhraoin agus an Loch Beag ann an Ros an Iar. Bho Ulapul, chithear gu bheil ainm na beinne gu math
ciallach, agus d mhullach oirre. Ann am beul-aithris, bha a bheinn sin cudromach ann a bhith a
sbhaladh ar coilltean giuthais. S ann os a cionn a bha a bhana-bhuidseach Lochlannach, Dubh a
Ghiuthais, air sgith nuair a chaidh a ceannsachadh mu dheireadh thall, agus i ag amas le droch rn air
teine a chur ri coilltean na h-Alba air fad.
Forked form
An gobhlan-taighe,
fear de na h-ein a tha
ainmichte a rir
cumadh gobhlach
earbaill.
The house martin is
one of the birds whose
name in Gaelic derives
from the forked shape
of its tail.
www.snh.gov.uk
The Gaelic word gobhal (GOE-ul), meaning something thats forked or divided,
and the adjective that comes from it, gobhlach (GOE-luch), appear in the names
of a number of animals common in Scotland.
In the bird world, gobhlan (a little gobhal) stands for several species with split
tails. For example, the house martin is a gobhlan-taighe and Leachs petrel is
the gobhlan-mara (sea swallow). The red kite is clamhan-gobhlach, the forked
buzzard (because of its tail), and the common clubrush is the luachair ghobhlach
or forked rush. Two Scots names for the earwig horny goloch and gulack
come from the Gaelic original gobhlachan or gobhlag (other forms of gobhal).
And gobhal appears in many landscape names as both a noun and an
adjective. Perhaps the best known is the twin-topped mountain west of Ullapool
called A Bheinn Ghobhlach. According to Ross-shire oral tradition, this is the
site of the slaying of the evil witch Dubh a Ghiuthais, who attempted to destroy
Scotlands forests.
31
The beaver release trial in Knapdale

has been visited by SNHs in-house
photographer, Lorne Gill, as part of the
2020VISION nature photography project.
Here are his thoughts on what he saw
32
Beaver diary
Beavers have been extinct in Scotland since the 16th century, but
once again the sound of teeth on bark is being heard in Knapdale as
part of the Scottish Beaver Trial (SBT).
The trial is taking place on Forestry Commission Scotland land and is a joint
five-year project between the Scottish Wildlife Trust (SWT) and the Royal
Zoological Society of Scotland. In addition, SNH are supervising the scientific
monitoring, along with a number of independent partners. This will result in a
final report to the Scottish Government, who will decide if beavers will return to
Scotland for good. One of the main criteria is to establish whether beavers are
beneficial to both people and wildlife.
The trial is now in its third year, so it was with much interest that I arrived
in Lochgilphead in early August to set up camp and begin one of my personal
2020vision projects. My task was to photograph all elements of the SBT
beavers, signs of beavers, newly created beaver habitats and also the people
aspects of the trial. As theyre mainly nocturnal animals, I knew that I would have
to be out and about around dawn and dusk if I was to have any hope of seeing
them.
First up was a visit to the excellent little visitor centre at Barnluasgan to scan
the visitor book for clues as to where the beavers had been spotted in the past
few days. From there I took the short walk down to the Dubh Loch. This is by far
the best place to see their impressive dam-building skills, as theyve raised the
water levels enough to double the size of this small lochan in just a couple of
years. A vehicle track and path that used to run past the lochan have now been
submerged under a metre and more of water. However, Forestry Commission
Scotland have now made a new path, which incorporates a pontoon that allows
visitors a view of the dam from Loch Coille-Bharr.
1
Sitting quietly beside
one of the lochs gives
you the best chance of
spotting a beaver.
2
Student volunteer
Jacob van der Ploeg
from Holland lamping
for beavers on Loch
Linne.
www.snh.gov.uk
33
Volunteer help
Next was a visit to Loch Linne, where I bumped into Roisin,
one of the project officers, and Jacob, a young zoology
student from Holland, who was volunteering with the trial
for a short time. It seems that a major project like this could
not exist without the help of the many volunteers who are
willing to give up their time in exchange for a few weeks in
this beautiful part of Scotland. Knapdale is one of only 40
designated National Scenic Areas in Scotland.
Roisin and Jacob were taking the SBT boat out onto
Loch Linne to look for the beavers and told me that they were
hopeful of spotting the first of this years kits as they were due
out around this time. They asked me if Id like to join them and
we were soon heading up the loch, scanning for any sign of
movement on the mirror-like surface of the water.
It wasnt long before Roisin spotted an adult beaver
behind a small islet at the north end of the loch. However, it
also spotted us and swam steadily away before disappearing
through a channel that led to another lochan. I had my first
image, but it wasnt the close encounter I had hoped for.
As we headed back down the loch, the sun was already
setting and it was easy to see the attraction for volunteers
like Jacob, who had spent night after night scanning the
waters surface by torchlight for any sign of beaver activity.
All too soon, darkness closed in and photography was over
for the day. I left them to their evenings work and headed
back to camp.
The next day set the pattern for those that were to follow:
up before dawn and a short drive to one of the lochs in the
hope of seeing the beavers before they headed back

to their lodges for the day. Most mornings started with
either rain or fog, and one particularly foggy dawn yielded
an encounter with a beaver. However, the beaver did not
intend to stay around and swam straight for its lodge
without a pause.
I spent these early mornings photographing signs of
beaver activity, such as felled trees, larders of branches
that lined the loch shores and the impressive pathways
and canals that they use to explore their territories. On first
impression, it looks like the trees have been damaged, but
on closer inspection its easy to find signs of woodland
regeneration among some tree species. I guess these
woodlands were once actively coppiced by the people who
lived here, so the beavers might be having a similar effect.
It certainly seems theres never a truer saying than busy as
a beaver! However, the monitoring work thats being done
by the James Hutton Institute along with SNH will eventually
give us a better picture as to what effects the beavers are
actually having on the woodland.
Throughout the visit I met up with various people involved
with the SBT, including Nigel Willby and Alan Law from the
University of Stirling. They were studying the water plants to
determine the beavers preferred food and their effects on
the loch communities as part of the independent monitoring
work with SNH. Theyd invented the floating quadrat, which
they used to count the number of water lilies and the impact
the beavers had on them and other freshwater plants.
34
Tourist destination
During the trip, I met and spoke with several holidaymakers
and tourists who had planned their trip to the area
specifically because of the beavers. They were well informed
and keen to see the animals for themselves so keen in fact
that even a night of torrential rain and rampant midges didnt
deter over 70 people turning up for a guided walk, hopeful of
just one fleeting glimpse.
Needless to say, the beavers remained elusive, but
everyone went home happy with what theyd seen and
heard. The SWT run a series of evening walks and specific
beaver detective sessions for children throughout the
summer months. The children, like the adults, had a great
time exploring and learning about the beavers and were
happy to be photographed during a rare afternoon of
sunshine. However, there are also people, both locally and
from farther afield, who have serious concerns over the
trial at Knapdale. Their views will also need to be taken into
account as part of the socio-economic monitoring (led by

the Scottish Agricultural College along with SNH), which is
another part of the SBT.
I persevered and one evening was eventually rewarded
with some closer photographic encounters with the beavers.
The sightings were always fleeting rather than sustained, but
were enough to fulfil my brief and therefore complete the set
of images that I had set out to capture.
My most memorable moment, however, wasnt just time
spent observing the beavers, but a wonderful early morning
at the beautiful Lochan Buic. Shortly after seeing the beaver
disappear into its mist-shrouded lodge, I witnessed an
amazing mist rainbow arching above the still waters. Who
can say for sure what the outcome may be for the Knapdale
beavers, but a visit to the site can be a joy whether or not
you see the elusive residents!
3
Alan Law and Nigel
Willby from Stirling
University with their
floating quadrat on
Loch Linne.
4
Mist rainbow over
Lochan Buic.
5
Beaver detectives
Piers and Lucas having
fun with an insect net.
You can find out more about the monitoring work Scottish
Natural Heritage are doing with our partners, and see the
latest reports, at www.snh.gov.uk/scottishbeavertrial.
For more information on the 2020VISION project, visit
www.2020v.org.
www.snh.gov.uk
35
Reserve focus
Loch Leven is one of the closest national nature reserves to the Central Belt of
Scotland, yet it retains a real sense of tranquillity and wildness. An attractive,
all-abilities trail around part of the loch offers a glimpse into its varied and
exciting natural and cultural heritage
Loch of plenty
Loch Leven fills over 13 square kilometres (5 square

miles) of a wide basin between the Ochil, Lomond and
Cleish Hills in the old county of Kinross. It forms the
largest naturally food-rich loch in lowland Scotland, and
its shallow waters, lochside wetlands and seven islands
support some of the largest numbers of nesting duck
anywhere on inland Europe.
Around 35,000 waterfowl are present in winter, including
over 10,000 ducks and some 20,000 pink-footed geese
which is almost 10% of the global population of this
species! The geese use the loch as important autumn
and spring staging posts. Several thousand stay on,
36
roosting on the loch and feeding in the agricultural fields

around the shore.
The loch is also an important stopping place for
birds migrating between their breeding and wintering
grounds. Goldeneye, gadwall, pochard, pintail, shoveler
and wigeon all number in their hundreds, while teal and
tufted duck can number into the thousands. Flocks of
over 100 whooper swans also regularly spend the winter
on the loch, and you might see large flocks of curlew,
lapwing and golden plover around the shore. Recent
winters have even seen white-tailed sea eagles from
the east of Scotland reintroduction scheme making the
shores of the loch their home.
Recent improvements in access have made it easier to enjoy the loch and
see its birds without disturbing them, making it a great place for visitors, whether
youre a keen birder or simply looking for a refreshing country walk. A 13 km
(8 mile) heritage trail follows the west shore from Kinross around the north
to reach Vane Farm on the eastern side. The path is level, well surfaced and
accessible to all users.

The walk we suggest here takes you from Kinross along to Burleigh Sands
on the lochs north shore (close to the A911). Its a linear route of some 4 km
(2.5 miles), so you will have to return along the same route unless you can
arrange for transport to pick you up at Burleigh. Use the numbered map and
directions in the text to guide you.
1
Loch Leven is the
largest loch in the
Scottish lowlands and
is home to thousands
of breeding and
wintering birds.
Milnathort
A
91
Mary's Gate
Kinross
Lethangie
Burleigh Castle
Burleigh Sands
5
6
Green Isle
Kinross
House
Standing
Stones
Kinross Pier
Kirkgate Park
Kirkgate Point
Scart Island
Alice's Bower
Roy's Folly
Castle Island
Channel
Farm
Lochleven Castle
Reed Bower
Wester
Balgedie
Easter Balgedie
Gairney Bank
Kinnesswood
St Serf's Island
Grahamstone
Priory
Key
RSPB
Vane Farm
Scotlandwell
Gliding Airfield
Levenmouth
Findatie
Toilets
Refreshments
Limited parking
Lochend
Viewpoint
Bus stop
kilometres
miles
www.snh.gov.uk
Information point
1
Trail
37
Factory Bay viewing hide
This hide is the latest addition to the reserve and provides great views over the
rich waters of Loch Leven. The loch is shallow here, with lots of plant and insect
life. All this food means that its a great place to see many of the lochs wildfowl
up close, including tufted duck, pochard and little grebe. You might also catch the
occasional glimpse of otters here too. After taking in the views, return back along
the path towards the pier car park and follow the trail through Kirkgate Park.
2
2
Views from the new
bird hide near the pier
are spectacular.
3
Around 100 whooper
swans visit the loch
each winter from
Iceland.
Kirkgate viewpoint
You can enjoy panoramic views from here out to Castle Island, where Mary
Queens of Scots was held captive between 1567 and 1568. Its also a great
place to watch the spectacle of pink-footed geese coming in to roost. These
geese visit Loch Leven in their tens of thousands from Iceland. Kirkgate Point and
the small island of Scart (Norse for cormorant) are popular roost sites for these
birds. Dawn and dusk are the best times to catch the spectacle. Continue past
Kinross House.
38
3 Kinross House
This was once the ancestral home of the Montgomeries and was built by Sir William Bruce in the 17th
century. It has majestically stood looking over Loch Leven ever since. The elaborate fish gate reveals
the seven species of fish that used to be caught in the loch at the time the house was built. Loch
Leven is of course famous for its native brown trout, which have been introduced to many different
countries around the world.
4
Marys Knowe woods
These woods are a great place to look for great spotted woodpeckers, treecreepers and flocks of longtailed tits, along with many other woodland species. If youre lucky you may even glimpse a red squirrel
here too, out searching for pine cones. On cold days, look for their tracks and half-eaten cones. Weve
also put bat boxes up in this area as homes for pipistrelle bats.
Carry on past Marys ponds. Beyond the ponds (about 500 metres), look out for a junction to your left.
This is the town loop, which takes you out of the reserve and back through Kinross to the pier.
www.snh.gov.uk
39
4
5
North Queich bridge
Carry on past the junction and on towards the bridge over

the North Queich River. Peer over the bridge and you may
be lucky enough to see one of Loch Levens world-famous
trout. During autumn and winter, the mature trout run up the
rivers and burns that flow into the loch to spawn, often many
miles from the loch itself. Look out too for otter droppings
(or spraints), which are sometimes left on the rocks near
the bridge.
6
Kingfisher hide
As its name suggests, this is one of many good sites

around the loch to see the electric-blue colours of the
kingfisher. These birds are vulnerable to hard winters and
some individuals move to estuaries and the coast when the
temperature tumbles. This is also a great vantage point from
which to spot species such as great crested grebe and
mute and whooper swans, with cormorants often sunning
themselves on the shingle spit. From here, you can retrace
your steps back to the pier (or carry on farther if you wish).
40
Essential information
Loch Leven lies between Edinburgh (50 km/31 miles) and Perth (32 km/20 miles),
in the east of Scotlands central lowlands. The nearest town is Kinross.
The usual approach by car is via the M90. Leave at junction 5 or 6 if approaching
from the south (Edinburgh) or junction 7 or 6 from the north (Perth). There are car
parks at Kinross Pier, Burleigh Sands, Findatie and RSPB Vane Farm reserve.
Bus services link Kinross with major cities throughout Scotland; please check
times and frequency. Theres no rail service.
OS maps
Nearby natural attractions
Explorer 369 (Perth & Kinross)

Landranger 58 (Perth & Alloa)
4
The loch is an important
stopover for wildfowl
migrating between
breeding and wintering
grounds.
5
Loch Leven has one of
the largest colonies of
breeding tufted duck in
the UK.
The RSPBs Vane Farm is part of Loch

Leven NNR and provides an ideal
day out for all the family. The three
observation hides at Vane Farm offer
Trail length
shelter from the weather and, at the
same time, a close encounter with
The walk from Kinross to Burleigh
large numbers of birds. For those who
is about 4 km (2.5 miles). The most
want more comfort and a warming cup
popular access points are zoned as
of tea, the visitor centre is the ideal
discovery areas, with interpretation and destination. From the large observation
orientation boards for visitors. The rest windows in the caf you can enjoy
of the trail is treated as a tranquil zone, splendid views across Loch Leven
where conservation has priority and
towards Kinross and Castle Island.
the emphasis is on quiet enjoyment of
If you prefer something more energetic,
wildlife and landscape.
follow the steep trail to the top of Vane
Hill, from where you can see as far as
the Cairngorms, the Isle of May and the
Terrain
Fife coast.
Near Dunkeld lies the Loch of the
Conditions underfoot are generally
Lowes, where the Scottish Wildlife
good, as the path is level and well
Trust have a visitor centre. It has
surfaced. Exercise caution near the
interactive exhibitions telling the story
loch edge, especially with children.
of the loch, its history and wildlife.
The large viewing window provides
Dogs
great views onto mixed woodland,
where treecreeper, finch, tit and
Please follow the Scottish Outdoor
woodpecker are attracted by the bird
Access Code and local guidance at
feeders. Two observation hides on the
the reserve. Please keep your dog(s)
loch shore provide first-class views of
under close control or on a short lead
the wildfowl population, which peaks in
at sensitive times and comply with any
early winter. As many as 3,000 greylag
notices you see. A short lead is taken
geese roost on the loch, as well as
to be two metres, and under close
goldeneye, mallard, goosander, wigeon,
control means that the dog is able to
teal, tufted duck and great crested
respond to your commands and is kept grebe.
close at heel.
Further information
Loch Leven is one
of 47 NNRs in
Scotland. Find out
more at www.nnrscotland.org.uk
You can contact SNH on 01577

864 439. You can download a leaflet
about the reserve at www.snh.gov.
uk/publications-data-and-research/
publications/search-the-catalogue/
publication-detail/?id=1620
41
SNH Area News

South Highland
Correspondents: Sarah McGrory, Lesley Watt, Rebecca OHara
Protecting dinosaurs
Far-flung fliers
Shorewatch sign-up
The Isle of Skye is often called

Scotlands dinosaur isle, thanks to
its unique heritage of fossils from the
Jurassic period 206 to 144 million
years ago. These feature marine
creatures, such as ammonites, and
terrestrial animals, including carnivorous
dinosaurs, such as Megalosaurus,
and the omnivores Cetiosaurus and
Stegosaurus.
However, some recent incidents of
reckless and large-scale collecting
including the excavation of tonnes of
rock from a cliff threaten this heritage.
Fossil collecting is important for
science and education, as well as being
a popular hobby, commented SNH
geologist Colin MacFadyen, and its
important that it continues. Its better for
fossils that fall from cliffs to be found,
collected and enjoyed rather than be
eroded and washed away by the tide.
However, speeding up the process
through large-scale rock removal
is irresponsible and illegal. Its also
potentially dangerous to the public, as
cliff faces are undermined. Wed like to
ensure that particularly vulnerable fossil
resources last for future generations.
By following the Scottish Fossil Code,
people can stay within the law and
ensure they follow best practice in
collecting and storing fossils.
You can find the Fossil Code at
www.snh.gov.uk/about-scotlandsnature/rocks-soils-and-landforms/
fossils-in-scotland/fossil-code
Research conducted on the island of

Rum last summer should help us to
learn more about the Manx shearwater,
one of Scotlands most remarkable
seabirds. Rum is a national nature
reserve and is home to almost a third of
the worlds population of the birds.
The shearwaters spend the summer
on Rum, nesting in burrows high on
the mountains, and return to their nests
only at night. They rear a single chick,
before undertaking an incredible winter
migration, flying along the coast of
South America to the Falkland Islands.
The birds then return to Rum by way of
the African coast, making a round trip of
more than 21,000 km (13,000 miles)!
Their living habits make them
tricky to study, but last summer
20 shearwaters were fitted with
geolocator tags to track their
movements in the southern oceans.
Scientists returned to Rum this summer
to download the information.
On both visits, a number of birds
were also fitted with global positioning
system (GPS) loggers to track where
they go for food during chick-rearing
time. The GPS loggers were taken off
again after around 10 days and showed
some interesting results one bird had
made a record-breaking 11-day trip
into the North Atlantic, covering a total
distance of 3,000 km (1,864 miles)!
Our continued support is helping the

growth of the Shorewatch programme,
which encourages community
volunteers to help keep track of whales,
dolphins and porpoises (cetaceans) in
their local area.
The Whale and Dolphin
Conservation Society run the project,
which started two years ago at 18
sites mainly based around the Moray
Firth. Localvolunteers are trained to
carry out regular 10-minute watches
for cetaceans, which help build a better
picture of how the animals use their
environment. The information can help
in understanding long-term population
trends and could also be useful in
planning future marine developments.
New Shorewatch locations
across Scotland this year include
Burghead,Cullen, Wick and the Outer
Hebrides.More local volunteers are
being recruited and support for them
has been boosted with improved
training resources, a dedicated website
and the introduction of volunteer
networking events. The project has also
included various local events to raise
awareness among communities and
visitorsabout marine conservation.In
addition, a schools week is planned
for pupils to undertake watches at their
local site.
If youd like to get involved in
Shorewatch or find out more, visit
www.wdcs.org/national_regions/
scotland/shorewatch/index.php
42
SNH Area News

Tayside and Grampian
Correspondents: Theresa Kewell, John Burrow, Estelle Gill
Dundees simple pleasures Eagle transfer
A campaign encouraging more people

to enjoy nature was launched recently
in Dundee. Simple pleasures, easily
found aims to inspire people to make
more use of local green places such as
woodlands, parks, waterways and even
a hill in the heart of Dundee.
Working with the citys countryside
ranger service and Healthy Living
Initiative, we produced a free colourful
leaflet with suggestions for where to
go. It was delivered to 34,500 homes
in Dundee and encourages folk to visit
four easy-to-follow routes in the city
at Baxter Park, Den OMains, Stobsmuir
Park and Dundee Law.
It suggests simple activities to
enjoy, such as looking for cones and
berries on trees, flying a kite, spotting
foxes and feeding ducks.We hope the
leaflet will inspire people to explore
somewhere new and rediscover some
childhood pastimes, for example looking
for conkers or splashing through
puddles in your wellies.Being outdoors
is fun and good for your health and
its all for free. After these tasters, we
hope people will explore farther on their
own and maybe even produce a guide
to walks in their area.
A copy of the leaflet can be
downloaded from www.snh.gov.uk/
simplepleasures or requested from
SNH publications on 01738 458 530
or by emailing pubs@snh.gov.uk
www.snh.gov.uk
Remony Estate in Perthshire have been

helping to re-establish a self-sufficient
breeding population of eagles in
northwest Ireland after an absence of
almost 100 years.
The estate are working with the
Golden Eagle Trust in Ireland and
the local Operation Countrywatch
Partnership in Perthshire, which is
made up of estates, police, SNH,
RSPB and the Tayside Raptor Study
Group. The partnership monitor golden
eagle, as well as other raptor species
and black grouse.
Contributing to the partnership,
Remony keepers watched for breeding
eagles, and when a nest at Remony
was confirmed with two chicks, it
became a suitable donor. Eaglets
can only be taken, under licence, from
a nest where two or more eggs have
successfully hatched. When the chicks
are old enough, theyre ringed, with one
taken for transfer and release in Ireland,
while the other remains in the nest. This
sort of technique is well tested and is
an appropriate and effective way of
restoring or boosting populations that
have declined, often because of human
persecution.
The eaglet was safely delivered to
the programme in Ireland, and joined a
female donated from the Isle of Mull.
For further information about the project
in Ireland, visit www.goldeneagle.ie
Moving water
Drainage has been part of land use in

Scotland for centuries. However, the
benefits that it brought for forestry and
farming over the years were rarely good
for wildlife.
The Logie Burn on Muir of Dinnet
National Nature Reserve in Deeside
is one example of a burn thats been
straightened to get water off farmland
more quickly. The downside is that
straight burns tend to move sediment
farther and faster, with fewer wild plants
and animals being supported.
Weve also come to realise that
quick drainage can increase the risk
of flooding downstream. Moreover, the
sediment can damage the gravel beds
where fish such as salmon need to
breed, as well as affecting the water
quality of lochs into which the burns
run.
Using well-tested techniques for
restoring rivers, the Logie Burn has now
been restored to its old meandering
course. The design allows for plants
to trap more sediment in the burn. This
means that any flooding will be in a
part of the reserve where it will benefit
wildlife, reduce sediment getting into
the lochs and not affect nearby farmers.
This Dee Catchment Partnership
project is supported by SEPA, Dinnet
& Kinord Estate, River Restoration
Centre, James Hutton Institute, River
Dee Trust and SNH.
43
SNH Area News

Southern Scotland
Correspondents: Beth Wilson, John McKinnell/Trevor Godden, Richard Kehoe/Trevor Godden
Bird celebration
Natterjack hope
Overseas interest
St Johns Town of Dalry, in Dumfries and

Galloway, recently hosted its very first
bird festival. The programme of events
was organised to celebrate the life and
work of local ornithologist and artist
Donald Watson (1918-2005), who
illustrated the Oxford Book of British
Birds.
A bird art exhibition, guided walks,
poetry and music performances, as
well as the awarding of the first Watson
Raptor Science Prize, were among the
activities to enjoy. Local schoolchildren
were joined by pupils from Dalry School
in Edinburgh, who showed off bird
sculptures theyd made for the event.
The festival was part of the Watson
Bird Centre and Celebration project,
which aims to inspire local communities
and visitors through linking birds,
landscape and the arts.
Stimulated by the work of Donald
and his late son Jeff a former world
expert on the golden eagle and SNH
director the project aims to establish
a bird centre in Dalry. Its hoped
that this will encourage economic
development through attracting more
people to spend time in the town. Its
also proposed that a Watson bird
centre would house Donalds original
archive and library, as well as an
exhibition space, caf, shop and nature
garden. Big Lottery, SNH and Leader
are supporting the two-year project.
Scotlands natterjack toads live in only

a handful of places along the Solway
coast. Their numbers were thought
to be in decline after years of cold,
dry spring weather and the looming
threat of chytrid disease. This is the
fungal infection that has hit amphibian
populations worldwide.
In Cumbria, on the other side of
the Solway, dedicated volunteers
monitor the natterjack populations
weekly. So this year we went into
partnership with Amphibian and
Reptile Conservation (ARC), who
coordinate the Cumbria work, to help
set up a similar network of volunteers in
Dumfries and Galloway.
After a successful recruitment drive,
with well-publicised talks and events,
several people came forward to receive
training. The five known Scottish
breeding sites were subdivided into 15
manageable sections for the volunteers,
and fieldwork began in May.
A better spring better for the
toads anyway, given that it was wet
and warm meant there were at least
small numbers of toads active. The
volunteers were able to follow their new
charges through spawning to tadpoles,
until they emerged as toadlets. In all,
the volunteers recorded breeding at
four of the five sites, with thousands
of toadlets seen at Southerness,
Caerlaverock and Powfoot. A glimmer
of hope for the future perhaps.
The success of a ground-breaking

management plan that encourages
co-operative working between English
and Scottish authorities was recognised
recently at a conference in Madrid.
Spain has decided to increase
its network of protected marine sites
and invited representatives from
several European countries to share
their knowledge. Claire Carey, the
SNH-funded project officer for the
Berwickshire & North Northumberland
Coast European Marine Site (BNNC
EMS), was invited to give a talk about
how this cross-border site is managed.
The BNNC EMS takes in the
spectacular coastline and shallow sea
from Alnmouth in northeast England
to Fast Castle Head in the Scottish
Borders. The area supports a huge range
of marine life above and below the sea
surface, and includes important habitats
such as rocky reefs and sea caves. It also
presents unique management challenges
in balancing the interests of residents
and user groups with the legal duties of
authorities across national borders.
The management plan allows the
coastal strip to be managed as a single
system, with land, water, air and living
resources including people all
treated as vital parts of the system.
Its heartening to learn that this allembracing approach is being recognised
at a European level. To find out more,
visit www.xbordercurrents.co.uk
44
SNH Area News

Argyll and Outer Hebrides
Correspondents: Roddy MacMinn, Ross Lilley, Mags Russell
Explore the shore
Environment sells!
Big it up
Did you know that dog whelks drill

through mussel shells and dissolve their
prey before sucking it up as a delicious
seafood smoothie? Or that starfish can
turn their tummies inside out?
The Hebrideshave some of the
best beaches in the world, with
some fascinating wildlife, so were
encouraging folk to get out and explore
them! Katherine Ross (along with SNH)
has recently produced a wonderful
setof Explore the shore activity
packs thatwill introduce families tothe
fascinating lives of the creatures that
live in and around our shores.
These packs provide parents,
teachers and group leaders with some
basic information on the marine biology
of our beaches. They also provide
step-by-step instructions for a range of
fun activities that are chiefly aimed at
children of primary-school age.
Six activities are described, with
some getting children to run around
searching for treasure while others
involve them looking at wildlife in more
detail. Ideally, they should be carried
out on a sandy shore with some rocky
areas, which provide both a safe place
to run around and a good range of
wildlife.
The series can be downloaded for
free from www.snh.gov.uk/about-snh/
snh-in-your-area/argyll-and-outerhebrides/news-in-argyll-and-outerhebrides
The economic benefits of including

environmental messages in local food
marketing have been revealed in recent
research funded by Argyll and Bute
Council, Leader and SNH.
Market researchers asked
consumers at farmers markets for their
views, and there was also a survey
of the catering trade. As expected,
the factors that influenced peoples
decisions were quality, taste, price
and where the product came from.
However, the environmental stories
behind the products were also
identified as increasingly important
influences in what people bought.
Marketing companies were then
recruited to work with five different food
producers across Argyll Barbreck
Beef, Argyll Hill Lamb, Winston
Churchill Venison, Islay Lamb and
Robins Herbs. New marketing materials
were put together that captured
the environmental credentials of the
different products.
Consumer response has yet to be
fully tested. However, initial feedback
suggests these messages are the
right ones to be pushing. People
recognise the west coast of Scotland
for its outstanding natural environment,
commented Fergus Younger, Argyll and
Isles Agricultural Forum manager, and
its great to see local food producers
realising the benefits of telling the
environmental story behind their
products.
Over 2,000 people of all ages gathered

in the darkness in Lochgilphead
recently for the projection of largerthan-life images of wildlife.
A huge spider, seashells, a giant
butterfly and an enormous eye looking
through a hole in a stone were among
the photos displayed onto the gable
walls of two buildings in the town.
The event formed part of the annual
lantern procession and bonfire night
celebrations.
The images were the work of pupils
from Lochgilphead High School and
were taken at Taynish National Nature
Reserve. They represented the latest
results of an ongoing nature project
between the pupils and SNH, which
aims to put young people in touch with
nature and help them explore their local
environment.
Snapberry Cubed involves young
people between the ages of 14 and
16 building their skills in photography
under the guidance of Lorne Gill,
SNHs in-house photographer. The
pupils photographs were also on
display earlier in the year at the Dochas
Gallery in Lochgilphead and in an openair exhibition at the Taynish Piggery.
www.snh.gov.uk
45
Events diary 2012

Join our monthly conservation volunteers with
Glen Tanar Ranger Service and the John Muir
Trust. Come along to learn about conservation and
help with the management of Glen Tanar. Call the
ranger service to find out when they're happening
and to book a place.
Tel: 01339 886 072
Health Walks
Glen Tanar NNR
Deeside
Weekly health walks are a sociable way to get fit

in the fresh air and much more fun than a sweaty
gym! Meet at the main car park on Fridays at
10 am. Walks are guided, easy and last for 90
minutes. Call the ranger service to book a place.
Tel: 01339 886 072
Sunday 15
Winter Wonderland
Corrie Fee NNR
Angus
Book a place to go with the ranger to Corrie Fee

and talk about how it was created and its physical
features. Booking essential.
Tel: 01575 550 233
Wednesday 18
Area Evening
Reception
Grantown-on-Spey
An opportunity for local people to meet with board

members and senior Area staff. All welcome
(please check SNH website or local Area office to
confirm venues and timings).
www.snh.gov.uk
Thursday 26
Area Evening
Reception
Stirling

www.snh.gov.uk
Saturday 4
Walk for Wetlands

Loch Leven NNR
Tayside
Join SNH reserve staff at Findatie car park

between 10 am and 12 noon for a walk to
celebrate World Wetlands Day and find out why
wetlands like those at Loch Leven NNR are so
important. Booking essential.
Tel: 01577 864 439
Thursday 9
Area Evening
Reception
Barra or Uist

www.snh.gov.uk
Sunday 19
Tracks, Trails and

Signs
Corrie Fee NNR
Angus
Learn animal tracking and identification skills

in Glen Doll next to Corrie Fee NNR. Booking
essential.
Tel: 01575 550 233
Wednesday 22
Area Evening
Reception
Kinlochbervie

www.snh.gov.uk
February
January
Conservation
Volunteering
Glen Tanar NNR
Deeside
46
March
Sunday 25
Walk and Talk

Corrie Fee NNR
Angus
Join the ranger for a general natural history walk

through Glen Doll Forest next to Corrie Fee NNR.
Booking essential.
Tel: 01575 550 233
Thursday 29
Area Evening
Reception
Fife

www.snh.gov.uk
The largest ever initiative to remove

breeding American mink from north
Scotland has made an encouraging start
and is keen to recruit more volunteers
Catch and
dispatch
48
Over 100 American mink have been removed in

the first six months of a new project, which aims to
create a 20,000 sq km safe haven in the north of
Scotland free of breeding mink.
The Scottish Mink Initiative (SMI) got under way in April
2011, and by the end of September the project had
recruited 85 new volunteers and put out 142 rafts/tunnels
to monitor for and then catch the animals.
The project is the UKs largest initiative so far aimed at
removing breeding American mink from north Scotland, and
it covers north Tayside across Aberdeenshire, Moray, the
Cairngorms and the Highlands.
Were really pleased with the enthusiasm and
commitment of our volunteers, commented Ann-Marie
MacMaster, the mink control officer for north Tayside.
However, new volunteers are always welcome, so wed
really like to hear from anyone in the area who might be
interested in giving us some help.
There are four mink control officers and a project
coordinator based across the project area. They can
provide equipment on long-term loan to volunteers, together
with training and advice, provided that the land owner
has given his/her consent. If you live or work within the
SMI area and would like to get involved or submit your

American mink records, youll find staff contact details at
www.scottishmink.org.uk.
The American mink is an invasive non-native species that
has a huge impact on our native wildlife. It was introduced
to the UK for fur-farming purposes, with Scotlands first fur
farm opening in 1938. Many American mink escaped from
enclosures, which meant that the species was first recorded
as living in the wild in the same year. These early escapees
may not have survived for long or bred successfully, as the
first confirmed record of breeding American mink in the wild
in Scotland was not for another 24 years. The population
found in the UK today are descendants of American mink
who either escaped from fur farms or were deliberately
released.
The success of the American mink in the UK is the result
of a number of factors. As a generalist predator, American
mink can adapt what they feed on to suit the prey available.
When they run out of one source of food, they simply switch
to another. They feed on water voles, ground-nesting birds
(adult birds, chicks and eggs), rabbits, fish, domestic fowl
such as hens and ducks, as well as economically important
birds such as pheasants and partridges. American mink
are also prolific breeders and can have up to 10 kits a year,
although the average is four to six. Lastly, but perhaps most
importantly, they have no natural predators in the UK
except humans.
SMI is a volunteer-based project that uses mink rafts
to monitor for and trap the animals. The rafts are floated
on rivers, lochs and burns, where theyre monitored by
volunteers who regularly check the clay pad for footprints.
Once American mink prints have been positively identified,
a live capture trap can be set within the tunnel. Only those
who have been trained are involved in dispatching the
animals. Using the raft to monitor for American mink means
that trapping needs to take place only when American mink
have been confirmed to be in the area, and trapping on the
raft means that fewer land-based mammals are caught.
The SMI is a partnership project between the Rivers
and Fisheries Trusts of Scotland, Scottish Wildlife Trust,
University of Aberdeen, SNH, Cairngorms National Park
Authority and 15 other organisations. The initiative signals a
920,000 investment in native wildlife conservation, thanks
to support from the Tubney Charitable Trust, Cairngorms
National Park Authority, Peoples Trust for Endangered
Species, SNH, the Scottish Government and the LEADER
Programme.
American mink are

prolific breeders
and have no natural
predators in the UK
except humans.
1
The American mink can have a big impact on
local wildlife populations, as well as affecting the
livelihoods of those who depend on angling,
shooting and wildlife tourism.
2
A network of volunteers monitors mink
movements using rafts designed by the Game
and Wildlife Conservation Trust.
www.snh.gov.uk
49
In the last article in our series to mark the 2011

European Year of Volunteering, we explore how
volunteering can help develop new skills and
improve job prospects
Skill seekers
50
One of the main reasons that people volunteer is to learn

new skills. That was the finding of a 2004 survey by the
Institute for Volunteering Research, when more than half
the folk interviewed said this was what had sparked their
interest.
It certainly helped me to develop communication skills and speak to people,
commented one participant. It also helped me to be more social and get out of
my own comfort zone. Another remarked that, Volunteering gets you recognised,
gives you skills and confidence, as well as allowing you to practise things.
The other main reason that volunteers gave for getting involved was work
experience. For some, volunteering was an effective route into employment. It
boosted my confidence and the training helped, reported one individual. Its
about getting out of the house and meeting new people it has opened a lot of
doors for me.
Here are a few examples of environmental volunteering projects that are
benefiting the environment, while at the same time helping the volunteers to
develop new skills and confidence.
Award winners
The Buccleuch Living Heritage Trust employ a small team in the Scottish Borders
to oversee education and public access at Bowhill House and Estate, which is
the home of the Duke of Buccleuch and Queensberry.
The experienced ranger service and their volunteers are responsible for visitor
enjoyment and access, as well as education and conservation. The volunteer
team formed in 2007 when a local company, Reiver Industries, approached the
ranger service to see if some of their members could help out on the estate.
Reiver Industries support individuals with learning difficulties in developing
new skills. The main aim of the training and voluntary work is to help the
individuals get a job and become part of the local community.
The volunteer team now has 11 members, including young people who are
looking for work experience in the countryside sector in the hope of securing a
full-time position in the future.
Volunteering with the ranger service at Bowhill was the ideal start for me
when I decided to look for a job in the environment, explained Rachel McAleese,
whos been at Bowhill for the last two years. I would never have got a position
without the skills I developed through volunteering and the confidence it gave me
to pursue my dream career.
The success of the Bowhill volunteers has been recognised in recent years,
with two of the team picking up the exceptional volunteer award at the annual
Youth Voluntary Awards run by Volunteer Scotland. And in 2011, the Bowhill
ranger service received the award for exceptional voluntary organisation in the
Scottish Borders.
For more information, visit www.bowhill.org
1
Volunteer Bryn Cross
and volunteer ranger
Rachel McAleese
working on path
maintenance at
Bowhill Estate, near
Selkirk.
www.snh.gov.uk
51
Bright future
Venture Scotland work with troubled teenagers who have problems such as
homelessness, drug abuse and mental health. They use the environment to help
them recover through long-term volunteering, further education or employment.
From the unemployed young people who took part in last years project,
100% completed the John Muir environmental award scheme, 87% took further
training, 55% got a job and 45% started further education.
The young folk live mostly in deprived areas in the Central Belt and, as part
of the programme, theyre taken to do practical work at a bothy in a remote area.
These work parties provide a safe environment for the participants to get actively
involved in learning about and caring for the natural heritage. The story of Paul,
whos now 26 years old, is a good example of what can be achieved.
When I was a child, I never quite felt like I belonged anywhere. My parents
were cruel and the care services werent much better, so I ended up having a
very dark view of the world. After years of struggling to live a meaningful life, and
believe in myself, I was at a low. I was sharing a YMCA flat with heroin addicts,
while going through the hell of Edinburgh Councils homeless system. I saw only
darkness ahead.
52
2
Venture Scotland have
recognised that the
wild open spaces of
Scotland are a
wonderful, aweinspiring, soulrestoring place to work
with volunteers.
3
Practical tasks are a
crucial part of the visits
by Venture Scotland to
the bothy in Glen Etive.
4
Bringing life back to
the glen through
planting native trees.
Then I stumbled upon Venture

Scotland and got involved, hesitantly at
first, and then, as my confidence grew,
enthusiastically. I think the exercise and
fresh air were a tremendous help with
my outlook. However, the real turning
point was when we transplanted some
trees from Edinburgh to the nurseries
of the bothy in Glen Etive, bringing life
back to the valley. I got to see for myself,
not just that I could be active, but that
by my hand I could create and nurture.
I began to realise that I could be a
positive, creative force.
I went on to complete two discovery
and three explorer awards, the first of
which was with Venture Scotland, and
I became a conservation volunteer with
them, returning many times. I've posted
the video of my adventure, produced
courtesy of Venture Scotland, on
YouTube at http://www.youtube.
com/watch?v=1btNYNb0R9I, which
shows clearly the amazing benefit these
programmes were, and still are, having
for my life.
Ive since got a great flat in
Edinburgh and started a four-year
contract as a trainee accountant. My
outlook is brighter and Im eternally
grateful for everything Venture Scotland
did to enable me to find myself again.
3
4
www.snh.gov.uk
53
Wood work
Enable Scotland Bridgend Volunteers is a project for 16 to 26 year-olds, mostly

with learning difficulties, who are interested in conservation and environmental
work. They work mainly in Craigmillar Castle Park, Edinburgh, caring for the trees
in the Millennium Woods.
"I've been coming along for about a year," commented volunteer Kevin Polson,
"and always enjoy working in the woods. We do lots of things like planting trees,
working on paths, litter picking, or building and putting up bird boxes."
Volunteers from the management level of potential employers for example,
Royal Mail and Marks and Spencer also take part in the activities from time
to time. This introduces more people to their local environment, as well as
introducing the young people to local employers.
The volunteers are much more aware of environmental issues, but also have
developed skills of working with tools and joinery, identifying plants, team working
and communication. Theyve also increased in self-confidence and self-esteem,
which has led to becoming involved with the local community. Several have
gained formal qualifications and a number have got jobs and long-term building
placements.
Gardening dads
The Cottage Family Centre in Kirkcaldy has expanded its successful dads group
to create a community garden where they grow healthy fruit and vegetables, as
well as educate youngsters. The aim is for the garden to have an eco-greenhouse
made from plastic bottles, a secret garden where youngsters can play, and rustic
furniture where weary shoppers or people living in flats without gardens can enjoy
a rest or some fresh air.
The work already done on the garden by the group of dads has been
fantastic, commented Pauline Buchan of the Cottage Family Centre. It has
helped to transform the lives of those who have taken part by building their selfconfidence and esteem. This will give them something else to which they can look
forward.
Funding from Fairer Scotland will also be used to allow the dads to study
for a gardening qualification at Elmwood College. We hope these qualifications
could lead to them finding a job or helping to pass on their skills to other
members of the local community, added Pauline.
If youre interested in exploring the possibilities for a volunteer opportunity near

you, the best place to start is your local volunteer centre. You can find out more at
the Volunteer Scotland website www.volunteerscotland.org.uk/aboutUs.aspx
And dont worry, you wont need to commit yourself if you dont want to, nor
will you be asked to give more time than you have to spare! Many organisations
offer volunteers a taster session, so that you can decide whether its for you, and
many are happy to work with volunteers who can only give a little time. Why not
give it a try?
5
Enable Scotland
volunteers Ross
Hughes, Gary Carse
and Steven Thornton
carrying out tree
maintenance at the
Millennium Woods in
Craigmillar Castle
Park, Edinburgh.
54
www.snh.gov.uk
55
A new website brings together a wealth of information on Scotlands

environment so that its easily available and in a form thats suitable
for all users
Gateway to
Scotlands
environment
For the first time, everything you want to know about Scotlands environment will now be available at
the touch of a button.
Scotlands Environment Web (www.environment.scotland.gov.uk) known as SEweb aims
to put Scotland at the global forefront of sharing environmental information, assessing problems and
involving citizens in improving their own environment.
The three-year project, supported through funding from the European Union, is being driven by a
partnership of Scotlands key environment and health agencies. The features of the site include:

availability of all information from one source;

a direct link to individual partner agencies, which makes it easy to navigate through information;
an online library that contains all partner agency official reports and publications; and
Citizen Science, which will allow individuals to interact with SEweb (coming in 2012).
To mark the launch of the site, the second State of the Environment report has been published
and is available from the SEweb library. It paints a generally positive picture of the condition of our
environment, which is said to be worth 23.5 billion per year.
This latest official government report provides the most complete insight yet into the condition of
Scotlands environment. It offers important information and data on how the quality of the countrys
land, air and water affects peoples quality of life and how these influence the decisions we make and
our lifestyles.
SEweb is a fantastic resource, commented environment and climate change minister Stewart
Stevenson, and it came about through an excellent partnership between our public agencies.
56
We owe it to future generations to protect Scotlands rich environment, and

its essential that every one of us begins to take responsibility for reducing bad
impacts. I have no doubt that SEweb will play a vital role in reaching the decisions
that make Scotland a clean, green country.
Some of the key areas for improvement highlighted in the new State of the
Environment report are:
Reducing our contribution to climate change: Scotland is moving in the right
direction but we have to do more.
Improving our quality of life: the majority of Scottish towns and cities are
generally good places to live, but there are still issues such as poor air quality,
litter and noise.
Managing our resources better: we can all help by using resources more
efficiently and improving recycling rates.
Managing land for multiple benefits: we need to achieve a balance between
protecting the environment and benefits such as producing food, managing
forests and enjoying recreational opportunities.
Improving the condition of our water environment: we need to continue looking
at problems such as the impacts that land management can cause and the
health of fish stocks that migrate.
Reducing the human impact on our seas: the two significant pressures are
human activity contributing to climate change and fishing that impacts on the
seabed and species.
1
The new SEweb site
will provide access to
data and reports held
by a wide range of
organisations across
Scotland.
2
Questionnaires and
feedback forms will
allow the public to
present their views on
issues of concern,
such as food
shortages affecting
the breeding success
of puffins and other
seabirds.
Over the three years of SEweb, there will be opportunities for the public to get
involved with Scotlands environment, and it will create a forum for debate from all
corners of the environmental community.
SEweb is a partnership led by the Scottish Government and includes the
Scottish Environment Protection Agency, Forestry Commission Scotland, SNH,
Historic Scotland, Marine Scotland and Scottish Environment LINK.
www.snh.gov.uk
57
Mapping wildness
Most people in Scotland want to see our wild land
protected, but how do you define wild land?
Paul Roberts from SNHs Stirling office explains
how the use of maps can help
58
www.snh.gov.uk
59
Think of a wild place that

youve been to. It could
be a stormy beach, an
exposed mountain top in
winter or a purple heather
moorland stretching as
far as the eye can see.
Now think of what makes
these places wild.
60
Could it be the scale of the landscape,

the sense of remoteness or the lack
of roads and houses? Or could it be
more than the physical landscape?
Sometimes, the feeling of wildness can
be heightened by the weather or the
change of the seasons.
The qualities that make a place
feel wild are often quite individual
and personal, so it can be difficult to
pin down a definition of wild land.
However, a 2007 survey of Scottish
residents reported that 91% agreed
that wild land was an important aspect
of Scotlands countryside and that

we should protect it. Since then, the
challenge has been to define wild land
and to map where it is so that we can
offer the protection that people desire.
Weve teamed up with the Wildland
Research Institute and the Cairngorms
and Loch Lomond and The Trossachs
National Park authorities to define and
map wild land across Scotland.
Several definitions of wild land
have been put forward, and there are
subtle differences between wild land,
wildness and wilderness. Its generally
accepted that no true wilderness exists

in Scotland, as people have changed
almost every part of the country in some
way. Youd have to travel to Greenland
for a real wilderness experience.
However, there are parts of the
country that are more wild than others,
and this sense of wildness is what lies
at the heart of wild land. Definitions may
differ but there are common themes
a sense of remoteness, of space and
openness, of grand scenery, of rugged
ground and the feeling that people
havent influenced the landscape.
These themes have been developed

into four qualities of wildness:
the land looks natural;
there are no visible human objects;
the ground is rugged and challenging;
you cant get near in a motor vehicle.
1
Winter light and mist
over the high tops in
the Cairngorm National
Park.
2
Loch Lomond and The
Trossachs National
Park.
Each of these qualities can be

mapped individually and then overlaid
to give a map of wildness. The maps
are produced with the help of powerful
mapping tools and then tested using local
knowledge and expertise.
2
www.snh.gov.uk
61
Figures 1 and 2 show wildness maps

for Loch Lomond and The Trossachs
and Cairngorms National Parks.
For anyone who knows either of the
national parks, the maps wont come
as a surprise. For instance, few would
disagree that the Cairngorm plateau
is wilder than the A9 corridor, and
that Ben More and Stob Binnean are
more wild than Balloch. The value of
using this approach is that it provides
a robust method that can be repeated
to identify and map wild land. This is
an important step forward in protecting
wild land, as it provides a solid basis
for discussion when proposals come
forward for planning and development.
Both national park authorities are
drafting guidance on wild land planning
based on this approach.
Scotland map
Were now preparing a national
wildness map for Scotland. The national
mapping project will help with planning
decisions and support policies based
on evidence for protecting wild land
across the country.
Were also working with both
national park authorities to ask the
public about what their opinions on wild
land are. The survey results will be used
to improve the maps so that they better
reflect peoples understanding of wild
land. The end product will be a map
showing wild land across Scotland.
Well be able to use this to inform
and support development in the most
appropriate places so that Scotlands
wild land is protected for future
generations.
You can find out more about how
the wildness maps are created at
www.lochlomond-trossachs.org/
looking-after/wildness-study-in-theloch-lomond-the-trossachs-nationalpark-2011/menu-id-414.html
www.wildlandresearch.org/
Cairngorm2008.pdf
www.snh.gov.uk/protectingscotlands-nature/looking-afterlandscapes/landscape-policy-andguidance/wild-land/wild-land-policy/
62
Relative wildness
High
Low
Crianlarich
Callander
Loch
Lomond
Figure 1
Wildness map for Loch
Lomond and The
Trossachs National
Park.
Relative wildness
High
Low
Tomintoul
Aviemore
Braemar
Figure 2
Wildness map for
Cairngorms National
Park.
3
Rocky slopes and
coires of the
Cairngorms National
Park.
www.snh.gov.uk
63
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Winter 2011

Protecting
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Outdoors
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Teens and the
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Wild at heart
05/01/2012 10:35
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Winter 2011
Protecting
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Outdoors
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Teens and the
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Wild at heart

Scottish National Heritage - The Nature of Scotland Winter 2011 Issue 14

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Scottish Natural Heritage

The Nature of Scotland

Selecting sites to conserve

Creating a map of wildness

14 The nature of youth

You can contact SNH by

Editor: John Walters

A full list of our offices

Cover photo: Wild cherries.

Inside cover photo: Winter woodland.

Great Glen House,

Other main offices

The Nature of Scotland

It would be easy to succumb to depression this winter. Economic threats and

When a thousand rooks are silhouetted above bare trees in the

Shores without end

For its size, Scotland has a remarkable length of coast.

The move from day to dusk can be beautiful at any time of

Web tip: www.morayways.org.uk/moray-coast-trail.asp

The Nature of Scotland

Hot wigeon and long-tailed cool

The Nature of Scotland

How familiar are you with your local

Some other things to look for in winter:

Fishermen, environmentalists and renewables developers

The Nature of Scotland

Scotlands largest seashell anchors itself to the

The Nature of Scotland

One key part of this partnership approach is a series of

selecting protected areas, Dominic noted.

the MPAs can

The Nature of Scotland

The Nature of Scotland

New research has revealed that, contrary to popular belief, most

The nature of youth

The Nature of Scotland

Its fun being away

These include fewer opportunities to go out unaccompanied,

The Nature of Scotland

Your help is being sought by scientists at the University of St Andrews in a bid to

Can you distinguish dialects?

Hidden benefits of peatlands

The Nature of Scotland

Scots are big nature lovers

clean waters around the coast;

You can find the reports at www.snh.gov.uk/about-snh/what-we-do/

The Nature of Scotland

If youre in an organisation or community group thats running a project to do

Natural project grants are aimed at larger-scale, longer-term projects valued at

The Nature of Scotland

I took this picture on St Kilda when I was working

2 Mover and shaker

Give us your best!

A UK design competition aims to promote and support

Is it really possible to have high-quality urban design thats good for

The Nature of Scotland

Its easy to see how everyone benefits from cleaner air

1 Community vegetable plots

Solar panels, hydro schemes and wind

Little forces of nature

The Nature of Scotland

Renewable energy technologies are already installed

the Scottish Government, and this too helps to reduce our