We have had a very busy time at the Falls of Clyde lately with path maintenance repairs happening along the blue path to our pond and also a few weeks ago the Seasonal Rangers replaced our hand railing on the steps up to Corra Linn. Due to the nature of the reserve and all its steep drops, we have lots of safety fencing dotted about the place and we are gradually replacing any old fencing and replacing it like-for-like. We also spend quite a bit of time strimming paths in the summer so visitors aren’t having to battle through nettles and through overgrowth to see the waterfalls. If you do see us out working on the reserve we’re always happy to chat and say hello!

The meadow is looking really great at the moment with all the wildflowers in full bloom including Common Spotted Orchid, Meadow Sweet and one of my favourites – Ragged Robin. This in turn attracts lots of butterflies and we’re seeing loads of Ringlets, which are rather inconspicuous, what with being small and brown, but nevertheless a treat to see!

I was the guide on two luxury badger safaris last week and on both occasions we were lucky to see badgers. On one evening we saw a group of five mutually grooming at the entrance to their sett. They also came and foraged in front of us looking for grubs and earthworms. They only managed to raise one badger cub this year and it is growing up fast. It is still at the cute and furry stage and there is an obvious difference in size between the cub and the adults. ‘Cub’ was quite wet when we saw it and it had mud all over its face!

Laura Preston – Scottish Wildlife Trust, Falls of Clyde Ranger