Sculptures of giant wooden heads and secretive pine martens have been carved into trees at Forest Wood Wildlife Reserve in Cumbernauld as part of a project to improve the reserve for visitors.

The sculptures are part of a series of improvements including upgraded footpaths, landscaped entrances and new information boards, which has been completed thanks to a £44,959 award from WREN’s FCC Scottish Action Fund.

Reserves Manager Duncan Clark said: “Forest Wood is a great place to experience wildlife. These improvements make it easier for local people to explore the reserve, and understand how it connects to a wider network of places throughout Cumbernauld such as Palacerigg Country Park. The sculptures have been a big hit with people. While we were carving them we received a great many compliments, smiles and engaging conversation from visitors to the reserve.”

“It’s fantastic news that the local community now have even more opportunities to explore the great outdoors and learn about the wildlife in their area.” Sophie Cade, WREN Grant Manager

Sophie Cade, WREN Grant Manager said: “We are always happy to fund community projects; it’s fantastic news that the local community here now have even more opportunities to explore the great outdoors and learn about the wildlife in their area.”

Forest Wood Wildlife Reserve is part of Cumbernauld Living Landscape. It consists mainly of plantation woodland, with small areas of lowland peat bog, heath and grassland. It is home to a wide range of wildlife including cuckoos, common lizards, adder and bats.

WREN is a not for profit business that awards grants to community, environmental and heritage projects across the UK from funds donated by FCC Environment to the Landfill Communities Fund.