Highlands - Glen Affric

Glen Affric is a very special place. It contains one of the largest ancient Caledonian pinewoods in Scotland as well as lochs, moorland and mountains. This wide range of habitats make Glen Affric a haven for wildlife. There are many rare and special birds, animals and plants found here. Amongst many others look out for deer, Scottish crossbills, crested tits and if you're very lucky, pine marten.

WHERE IS GLEN AFFRIC RESERVE?
Glen Affric is 5 miles west of Cannich on the Glen Affric road, off the A831.
Take a look at the map here:
http://www.multimap.com/maps/?#map=57.31006,-4.85721|11|4&loc=GB:57.31005760430604:-4.857213763261825:16

MAMMALS AT GLEN AFFRIC
Although difficult to spot, there are many animals in Glen Affric. Red, roe and sika deer are all present and can be seen more often in the winter. Foxes, stoats, weasels and badgers are here too - but pine marten are the main predators. Look out for signs of smaller anilmals too - mice, voles and shrews all thrive here too. If you're very lucky, there are otters in the rivers and lochs.

BIRDS
Around 100 different birds have been recorded in Glen Affric. From eagles and ptarmigan on the high tops, red and black-throated divers and many other water birds, to a huge variety of woodland birds. Many of the pinewood specialists are here - Capercaillie, Scottish crossbill and crested tits. Rare but present are black grouse, golden eagle, merlin and osprey.

INSECTS AND REPTILES
On warm summer days - look out for some of the many butterflies, dragonflies and other insects. Pearl-bordered fritilliary, Scotch argus, golden-ringed and common hawker dragonflies, tiger beetle, dung beetle and wood ants are all easily seen. You may also spot adders, slow worms and common lizard in sunny places too.