The Trust is launching this year’s People’s Postcode Lottery Peregrine Watch, with a public event to mark the beginning of the peregrine season, at its Falls of Clyde Visitor Centre and Wildlife Reserve on Saturday 21st March.
Falls of Clyde is one of the best places in the UK to view breeding peregrines up close. The birds are among the fastest animals on the planet, reaching speeds of up to 200 miles per hour when diving for prey.
In order to ensure the safety of the peregrines, the Scottish Wildlife Trust runs the People’s Postcode Lottery Peregrine Watch, a 24-hour surveillance and monitoring programme supported by a team of dedicated volunteers. This work is necessary because peregrine falcons, like many bird of prey, are under constant threat from poachers, egg collectors and thieves.
The event on Saturday is an opportunity for the public to find out more about the People’s Postcode Peregrine Watch, meet the team and enjoy a guided walk which will take visitors up to the peregrine viewing area.
The Scottish Wildlife Trust Falls of Clyde Seasonal Ranger, Adam Jones, said: “Peregrine season is undoubtedly the busiest time for us at the Scottish Wildlife Trust Falls of Clyde Visitor Centre and Wildlife Reserve. The staff and volunteers have now started the 24-hour surveillance on the peregrine site to protect the birds from harm.
“The event on Saturday is an opportunity for people to come and learn about the fantastic birds of prey and meet the team that will help protect them during the breeding season. With so many experts on hand, we will be able to address any question about nature’s fastest fliers.”
The launch of the People’s Postcode Lottery Peregrine Watch will start at 10am on Saturday 21st March at the Falls of Clyde Visitor Centre in New Lanark and run until noon. For more information please contact lmark@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk or call 01555 665 262.