The Scottish Wildlife Trust works to protect Scotland's wildlife and habitats, managing over 100 nature reserves covering 17,000+ hectares. It focuses on landscape-scale restoration, species protection, and policy advocacy, aiming to create resilient ecosystems and connect people with nature. Key activities include peatland restoration, marine conservation, and community engagement.
Key areas of work include:
Wildlife Reserves: The Trust manages a diverse network of over 100 sites for biodiversity conservation and public enjoyment.
Conservation Projects: They lead large-scale restoration projects (e.g., in the Highlands) and species-specific conservation, such as protecting ospreys and restoring peatlands.
Policy and Advocacy: The Trust influences environmental policy, responding to planning consultations and fighting for stronger protection for Scotland’s land and seas.
Community Engagement: They inspire action through education and volunteer projects, such as the Hamiltonhill Claypits community project.
Strategic Vision: Aligned with Strategy 2030, the Trust focuses on bringing back wildlife and empowering people to create a society where nature matters.
Perthshire boasts diverse Scottish wildlife reserves ranging from mountain ranges and ancient woodlands to wetlands and rare river habitats. Top sites include the osprey-famous Loch of the Lowes, the alpine flora of Ben Lawers, and the migratory bird haven at Loch Leven.
Key Perthshire Wildlife Reserves:
Loch of the Lowes Wildlife Reserve (Dunkeld): Famous for breeding ospreys, red squirrels, red deer, and woodpeckers.
Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve (Loch Tay): Known for its arctic-alpine wildflowers, rugged mountain scenery, and rich biodiversity.
Loch Leven National Nature Reserve (Kinross): A top spot for waterfowl, featuring one of Europe's largest breeding duck populations and thousands of wintering geese.
Balnaguard Glen Wildlife Reserve (near Pitlochry): A steep, sheltered glen known for its juniper woodland and diverse birdlife.
Keltneyburn Wildlife Reserve (Aberfeldy): A wildflower-rich, sunny grassland bank featuring many species of orchids and butterflies.
Tummel Shingle Island (near Pitlochry): A unique, protected freshwater shingle habitat, essential for river insects and birds.
Inner Tay Estuary Local Nature Reserve (Perth): A tidal area important for waders and wildfowl such as oystercatchers and lapwings.
Rannoch Moor: A vast, protected expanse of boggy moorland, offering habitat for black-throated divers and red deer.