Loch of the Lowes, the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s wildlife reserve, near Dunkeld, is now a protected haven for even more native Scottish wildlife, including osprey, red squirrels and pine marten, thanks to an additional 32 hectares of important land being recently signed over to the care of the wildlife conservation charity.
The extension, which marks the handover of land designated as both a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), means that Loch of the Lowes will safely incorporate habitats boasting a wealth of wildlife and a tree well-known as an osprey nest site within the wildlife reserve.
Robert Potter, the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Reserve Manager for north-east Scotland, said: “The current reserve encompasses 98 hectares, of which around 9/10ths is water. The additional 32 hectares of new land will see us take other special areas for wildlife into safe-keeping. It is an exciting opportunity to build upon our conservation achievements so far at Loch of the Lowes. Our thanks go to Perth & Kinross Quality of Life Trust and SITA Tayside Biodiversity Action Fund for contributing funding towards the purchase.
“Loch of the Lowes Reserve and Visitor Centre is already a fantastic place for visitors to enjoy and learn about the wide range of species found on the reserve. From iconic ospreys and red squirrels to less widely known species such as the slender naiad which is extremely rare in the UK, a wide collection of Scotland’s biodiversity can be found here.
“Spring is a particularly good time to visit Loch of the Lowes, especially as we hope to welcome a breeding osprey to the nest here this year and watch its progress up-close thanks to our HD nest cam, which is streamed live at www.swt.org.uk. We aim to encourage more people to visit the visitor centre, walk around the footpath on the reserve, and enjoy the outdoors while respecting nature.”
The Scottish Wildlife Trust received a joint grant of £10,000 towards the purchase from Perth & Kinross Quality of Life Trust and SITA Tayside Biodiversity Action Fund.
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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR IMAGE REQUESTS, PLEASE CONTACT:
Nicola McGovern, PR and Communications Manager
nmcgovern@swt.org.uk
0131 312 4742
Notes to Editors
The Scottish Wildlife Trust is the largest voluntary body working for all the wildlife of Scotland, representing more than 35,000 members who care for wildlife and the environment. The Scottish Wildlife Trust seeks to raise public awareness of threatened habitats and species and manages over 120 reserves Scotland-wide.
The Scottish Wildlife Trust receives financial assistance and support from a range of organisations, funders and individuals including Scottish Natural Heritage and People’s Postcode Lottery.