More people flock to Central Belt national nature reserves in 2020

The increase, initially due to lockdown, was followed by continued interest and enthusiasm across the nation for spending time in nature in this difficult year.

Winter is a wonderful time to continue that habit. There’s plenty to see on nature reserves in the Central Belt, from geese to birds of prey and deer, and they’re often easier to spot at this time of year because of the bare trees.

NatureScot Chief Executive Francesca Osowska said: “People throughout Scotland have been enjoying spending time outdoors more than ever in 2020. Nature is helping us all cope with anxiety throughout this difficult time and strengthening our resilience. I’d encourage people to get out and enjoy their local national nature reserves over the holiday season, following the latest government guidelines. Our nature reserve staff have highlighted some spectacular sights to see on our reserves this winter.”

At Flanders Moss reserve in Stirlingshire, enjoy the awe-inspiring solitude of the moss from the viewing tower. There is often a scenic backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Relax and appreciate the wilderness experience and listen to wintering geese flying over at dusk to roost at Lake of Menteith.

An easy circular path gives a close-up view of the rich bog habitat. At this time of year, the carpets of sphagnum stand out more now than in the summer with striking colours and beautiful textures, like a rich tapestry. But take note that wellies are a necessity for the boardwalk this winter, as some of it is under a few inches of water. Look up visitors might see skeins of pink-footed geese winking overhead, flocks of fieldfares and the backdrop of the snow-topped mountains of the southern edge of the Highlands.

Blawhorn Moss NNR in West Lothian is tucked away in the hills behind Blackridge and is a wonderful place for a winter walk. The wilderness is a rare survivor of the raised and blanket bogs that once covered much of central Scotland, with over 8,000 years of history locked into the peat layers of this raised bog. 

And the reserve is becoming even bigger and better. Blawhorn Moss has been expanded this year by 20 hectares, with plans to develop a new boardwalk and circular paths to add to the existing 1.7-kilometre existing path on the reserve. This area is a mixture of wetland (a haunt of snipe and herons at the moment), peatland (colourful sphagnum) and wildflower grassland.  

Francesca has some final words of advice for those visiting nature reserves: “It’s been amazing to see so many people enjoying our reserves this year, but we’d also like to remind people to protect our reserves for future generations. For example please don’t litter or light campfires, as these can damage plants, trees and wildlife.”

ENDS