Recent blog posts - Highland Perthshire Blogs

Mystery Bird on Loch – Identified

Posted by peter on Saturday, 27 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

From time to time, a ‘different’ bird is seen amongst the flocks of Canada Geese floating around Loch of the Lowes. At the moment, there is a Barnacle Goose, but recently there was a white headed, white tailed water bird which was proving hard to identify. With thanks to the excellent...

Fishing Well

Posted by peter on Friday, 26 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The river has risen a few inches over the last couple of days and, with a fresh fish about, the Sawmill continues to fish well. The Dam beat, meanwhile, has been quiet - though this probably reflects the fact that it has been very lightly fished as much as anything -...

Sawmill Success

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 23 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Monday: The Sawmill is fishing well at the moment and Graeme Stewart was able to take advantage with a 5lb grilse on the fly this morning in Sawmill.Tuesday: Catching your first salmon isn't easy: you've worked on your casting; got to know the beat; and even hooked and lost a fish....

Ruan Ruarie and Sawmill On Form

Posted by peter on Saturday, 20 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It was relatively quiet on PAC waters today with only two fish caught: Dave Wilson landed a 7lber on Ruan Ruarie beat; and on Sawmill this morning Gordon Nichol landed a 12lber on the fly. Currently the counter at the fish ladder shows 1848 so still lots of fish (and fishing...

It is looking lovely and summery at the Hermitage just now :) What's your favour...

Posted by peter on Saturday, 20 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It is looking lovely and summery at the Hermitage just now :) What's your favourite thing about the Hermitage?Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Expect the unexpected at Loch of the Lowes

Posted by peter on Saturday, 20 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Over the last week we have had some unusual sightings which have delighted visitors, all the more so because they came ‘out of the blue’. Not two, or three but four juvenile woodpeckers are currently visiting the feeding station. Initially they are being fed by the adults but quickly learn to...

Still Fish About

Posted by peter on Friday, 19 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Two lost on Port-na-Craig bank this morning and one lost at Sawmill: it looked like one of those days. Late this evening Gordon Nichol saved the day with a 10lber on the fly on Pitlochry bank. Still plenty of fish about - will be interesting to see what tomorrow brings....

If you guessed this month's mystery picture was of a great spotted woodpecker yo...

Posted by peter on Friday, 19 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

If you guessed this month's mystery picture was of a great spotted woodpecker you'd be right :) Here it is in action, feeding it's young in an oak tree, down by Soldiers Leap, Killiecrankie.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Sawmill Success

Posted by peter on Thursday, 18 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Plenty of fish showing in Sawmill at the moment but not easy to catch. A fish was lost yesterday but today Jimmy Ross managed to hold on to one - landing a good fish of 11lbs on the fly. The river is still sitting at a good height - well worth...

Ticking Over

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 17 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The dam count has shot up over the last week but still good numbers of fish showing on PAC beats at the moment and despite the light fishing effort some of them are getting caught:Tuesday:Nothing caught during the day but Jim Fisher ventured out in evening and did well with an...

Here's this month's mystery picture.....but what do you think it is? Answers ple...

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 17 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Here's this month's mystery picture.....but what do you think it is? Answers please :)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Another new addition -we captured this roe deer with her very young fawn on our...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 16 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Another new addition -we captured this roe deer with her very young fawn on our Linn of Tummel trail camera. Please share this post if it made you go "awwwwww" :)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Steady Start To The Week

Posted by peter on Monday, 15 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It was a steady start to the week with fish caught at the Dam and Sawmill; Duncan Webster opened his Tummel account with a fresh fish of 12lbs on the fly on Pitlochry bank this evening - well done; and downstream at Sawmill Graeme Stewart struck again with an 8lber on...

Come Rain or Shine!

Posted by peter on Monday, 15 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The very changeable weather over the week-end did not bother the wildlife at all, even if the human visitors were shivering at times. The ospreys continue to do well with all three chicks receiving plenty of food. Don’t worry if you only see two chicks feeding when you are here (or...

Our resident pair of nuthatches at Killiecrankie had four young this year, all o...

Posted by peter on Sunday, 14 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Our resident pair of nuthatches at Killiecrankie had four young this year, all of whom have become regulars at our bird feeding station. The problem is, they are a very active lot who never keep still, so far we have just managed to photograph three at once, but we’ll keep trying...

Good End To The Week

Posted by peter on Saturday, 13 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

We've had contrasting conditions over the last couple of days - hot and sunny on Friday and overcast and cooler on Saturday - but both days produced fish and PAC beats continue to fish well:Friday: David Russell got things going in the morning with a 14lber caught on the fly on...

A big thank you to the Trust's Lothian Conservation Volunteers who helped us wit...

Posted by peter on Friday, 12 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

A big thank you to the Trust's Lothian Conservation Volunteers who helped us with some path work at the Hermitage recently. Lots of hard work took place whilst enjoying the sunshine under the big trees too :) www.nts.org.uk/volunteeringOriginal linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Binoculars found

Posted by peter on Friday, 12 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Have you lost your binoculars? If you visited Loch of the Lowes in the last two weeks and can’t find your binoculars – we may know where they are! Please email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the make and model of the pair you have mislaid and we will get back to...

Ticking Over

Posted by peter on Thursday, 11 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It was another scorcher at the Dam today - not ideal for fishing. Still lots of fish about, though, - but difficult to tempt in these conditions. As it turned out only one fish was caught - Gordon Nichol landed a 7lber on the fly on Port-na-Craig bank this morning. Overhead...

News update 11th June: Ospreys, angry pheasants & phalaropes!

Posted by peter on Thursday, 11 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

From freezing cold to sweltering hot, gale force winds to long still days when roe deer doze in pools of dappled sunshine – summer is arriving at Loch of the Lowes. With fingers firmly crossed, we are delighted to say all three osprey chicks are thriving and being very well tended...

Summer's here :) The Pass of Killiecrankie is looking stunnning in today's sunsh...

Posted by peter on Thursday, 11 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Summer's here :) The Pass of Killiecrankie is looking stunnning in today's sunshine. Is it summery where you are?Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Access to Loch Bhac

Posted by peter on Thursday, 11 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Both Loch Bhac and Lock Kinardochy are fishing well, but please note that only the Grenich access road to Loch Bhac, which is the further west of the two access roads shown on the location map for the water, is available to our anglers just now, and must therefore be used. ...

Dam On Form

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 10 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The river continues to drop back in the warm weather but the fishing remains excellent: Steve Watt was on form again with three fish at 9, 9 and 10lbs - all on the fly on Pitlochry bank this morning; and Jim Fisher, who lost three fish yesterday - unlucky, was more...

Dam And Sawmill Fishing Well

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 09 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The good fishing continues with fish from the Dam and Sawmill beats today: Saul Mackay got things going at the Dam with an 11lber on the fly from Pitlochry bank in the morning; Alun Williams had a good day with a 7lber on the fly followed by a 20lber on the...

Responsible fire lighting??? Please think very carefully before you light fires...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 09 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Responsible fire lighting??? Please think very carefully before you light fires in the outdoors this summer, choose a location on rocky shingle where the vegetation and wider surroundings cannot be damaged. Remember to leave no trace: make sure that the fire is completely out and remove all evidence of having had...

Great Fishing

Posted by peter on Monday, 08 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

With the river at an ideal height and plenty of fish about the good fishing continues: Danny Docherty had an excellent day with two fish this morning at 19 and 14 lbs - both on the fly from Port-na-Craig bank; in the evening Steve Watt had two in quick succession on...

Two At The Dam

Posted by peter on Saturday, 06 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

High water and high winds - not ideal fishing conditions. Still plenty of fish about, though, and despite the conditions two fish were caught: Gordon Hanslip was first off the mark with an 11lb fish early morning on the spinner - and another lost - on Pitlochry bank; and in the...

On the walk back from Ossian’s Cave at The Hermitage, you can now see one of the...

Posted by peter on Saturday, 06 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

On the walk back from Ossian’s Cave at The Hermitage, you can now see one of the most perfect looking flowers of early summer. The flowers of the Chickweed Wintergreen are only 1-2cms across but seem to float above the leaves on slender stems really worth hunting out.Original linkOriginal author: North...

Great Fishing Continues

Posted by peter on Friday, 05 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Fishing conditions were close to ideal today and with six caught at the Dam, four at Ruan Ruarie and one at Sawmill it was another outstanding day on PAC waters: Alisdair Ker got things going with a 10lber on the spinner from Port-na-Craig bank this morning - his first ever salmon!...

Osprey update 5th June

Posted by peter on Friday, 05 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Taking into consideration the bleak weather early on in the week the female had been doing a great job at keeping the ever growing chicks warm and sheltered. This, however is often counterproductive to the chicks own intentions of poking their heads out from underneath their mothers protective corral to explore...

The warmer weather will encourage the broadleaved tree leaves to fully open and...

Posted by peter on Friday, 05 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The warmer weather will encourage the broadleaved tree leaves to fully open and cast a greater shade on the woodland floor, here at Killiecrankie there’s still time to see the spring flowers, but hurry they will disappear fast now.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Red Letter Day!

Posted by peter on Thursday, 04 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Catches have been reasonably good at the Dam this year but what has been missing is a big day when the fish were really "on". Today was different, however, and with eleven landed and least four lost it was an exceptional day: the man on form was Steve Watt (no surprise...

Angler On Form!

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 03 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

With heavy rain overnight the river was up and coloured on Tuesday morning - not ideal fishing conditions. It cleared quickly during the day, however, and Les Dargie was able to take advantage in the evening with an 8lber on the fly from Port-na-Craig bank. Les continued his good run today...

A buzz in the air

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 03 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Well, it’s coming up to that time of year again where the spring has arrived, the flowers are blooming and soon the bees will be out by the hundreds. With their characteristic buzz and seemingly bumbling flight they tend to muster up nostalgic feelings of hot summer days gone by. However,...

As spring turns to summer it’s so obvious what an important role trees play in S...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 02 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

As spring turns to summer it’s so obvious what an important role trees play in Scotland’s landscapes, this view down the River Tay to Dunkeld we think proves the point. Do trees play an important role where you live?Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Good Start To June

Posted by peter on Monday, 01 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

June got off to a great start on PAC beats today with four fish caught: Matthew Currie had two on the spinner - both 10lbs - from Port-na-Craig bank this morning; Rory McNab followed up with a fish of 12lbs on the fly from Pitlochry bank in the afternoon; while further...

Having spent the last four years as grubs in the soil, the end of May/ beginnin...

Posted by peter on Monday, 01 June 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Having spent the last four years as grubs in the soil, the end of May/ beginning of June sees the emergence of the cockchafer beetle, this one was in the office flowerbed. They were nearly eradicated in the middle of the 20th century through extensive use of pesticides and while they...

These small holes in the sandy bank are badger latrines, badgers are very clean...

Posted by peter on Sunday, 31 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

These small holes in the sandy bank are badger latrines, badgers are very clean animals and dig a series of holes which are covered over when full! The larines are often used to mark their territory too.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

MAY REPORT FOR HILL LOCHS

Posted by peter on Sunday, 31 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Although weatherwise May seemed to have continued where April finished off with cold northerly winds,hail and frosts, catches on Bhac have been encouraging the last few weeks with damsel nymphs and gold heads doing well.Kinardochy has continued to fish well with black flies being the most successful.Weather forecasters are predicting temperatures...

Full House

Posted by peter on Saturday, 30 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Fishing conditions were reasonably good today and we ended the week with a "full house" - fish from all PAC beats: Dave Wilson opened his season on Ruan Ruarie with a fish of 7lbs on the spinner (and lost another of about 10lbs) - well done; Ally Gowans caught a fish...

Osprey Chick Update

Posted by peter on Friday, 29 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

What a difference a week makes – little over 8 days ago our female was still patiently incubating her clutch of 3 eggs and now she is brooding 3 demanding little chicks. Staff, volunteers and visitors are over the moon with the family’s current progress, but we know there is still...

Here's a bit about how Ossian's Hall, at the Hermitage, has changed over the yea...

Posted by peter on Friday, 29 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Here's a bit about how Ossian's Hall, at the Hermitage, has changed over the years......https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/p100x100/10454337_810449205700073_1263760540263558514_n.jpg?oh=57ee50b7e2bbd61aff8a9514cdbe01d4&oe=560A3CBC&__gda__=1443140748_fee40909b924b24b0b2f73fb0bc8ac32The National Trust for Scotland Buildings TeamTHROWBACK THURSDAY!!!! Here is Ossians Hall at the Hermitage from 1869 after being badly damaged. Here it is today including a photograph of the stunning view looking up to the viewing...

Fishing Well

Posted by peter on Thursday, 28 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It was blustery and showery today but it didn't stop it being another excellent day at the Dam: Richard Turner was first into action with 7lb fish on the fly from Port-na-Craig bank this morning; Craig Scott followed in the afternoon with a 12lber from Port-na-Craig bank - his first ever...

The Googletrekker camera has been out at the Linn of Tummel, here are a couple o...

Posted by peter on Thursday, 28 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The Googletrekker camera has been out at the Linn of Tummel, here are a couple of pictures of Simon, our wildlife filming editor with his 20kg load.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Looking especially spring like in Dunkeld this week.

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 27 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Looking especially spring like in Dunkeld this week.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

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Posted by peter on Tuesday, 26 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Timeline PhotosWe've been carefully monitoring the work and findings from the recent Knapdale Scottish Beaver Trial and the Tayside Beaver Study Group. Following assessment of these projects and other evidence from around the world, we believe that the Eurasian #beaver is native to Scotland and its reintroduction is consistent with the...

Ticking Over

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 26 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It was a relatively quiet day at the Dam - though the unexpected rise in water this morning may have had something to do with it. As it turned out only one fish was caught - the successful angler was Nolan Wall who landed a 10lb fish on the fly. Still...

Excellent Start To The Week

Posted by peter on Monday, 25 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The river dropped back to a good height over the weekend and five on form anglers were in the right place to take advantage: at the Dam Jimmy Ross got things going with a fish of 12 lbs on the fly from Port-na-Craig bank this morning; Neil Tong followed with an...

Third chick 25th May

Posted by peter on Monday, 25 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

After an anxious wait all day, we finally got to see chick number three hatch at approximately 4.53pm – a very welcome sight as it’s been six years since our nest was home to a clutch of three. Despite a gruelling battle chipping away at the shell for hours, this chick...

Three is the magic number

Posted by peter on Monday, 25 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

After an exciting few days at Lowes it looks like the third egg is hatching. At 9.20 this morning staff at Lowes noticed the female was spending a lot of time watching the final egg and upon further inspection a definite hole was seen with a small beak poking out. Keep glued...

Third egg hatching??

Posted by peter on Sunday, 24 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

At approximately 7pm last night, myself and my team were convinced that the smallest of holes could be seen forming in the third egg. However overnight the female did a great job protecting the chicks and egg, preventing any additional glimpses. All morning, the staff and volunteers at Lowes have been...

Good End To The Week

Posted by peter on Saturday, 23 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Fishing conditions looked close to ideal today and with three fish caught it was an excellent end to the week: Stuart Humphreys opened his Tummel account for the year with a 14lber on Port-na-Craig bank on the fly; in the evening Roger Collins continued his good run with a fish of...

2nd chick update 23rd May

Posted by peter on Saturday, 23 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

We are thrilled to report that following another successful hatching this morning, our pair of ospreys now have two hungry mouths to feed. During the earlier hours of this morning, our female again appeared unsettled and was frequently seen listening to the eggs. The nightshift staff had a sneaky suspicion that...

Second chick hatched at Loch of the Lowes!

Posted by peter on Saturday, 23 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

A second osprey egg has hatched this morning at Loch of the Lowes. The exact timing is to be confirmed, but the chick was first spotted by volunteers at 8:15am. The adult female attempted to feed it almost immediately with a fish saved on the nest from yesterday. A full update...

Second chick hatched at Loch of the Lowes!

Posted by peter on Saturday, 23 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

A second osprey egg has hatched this morning at Loch of the Lowes. The exact timing is to be confirmed, but the chick was first spotted by volunteers at 8:15am. The adult female attempted to feed it almost immediately with a fish saved on the nest from yesterday. A full update will...

Fish From All PAC Beats

Posted by peter on Friday, 22 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It was another good day on PAC waters with fish caught on all beats: Brian Lindsay continued his good run on Ruan Ruarie with two fish at 10 and 12 lbs on a Flying C; Iain McLaren was in the right place in Sawmill this after afternoon and landed two fish...

This nosy badger was investigating our trail camera at the Linn of Tummel :)

Posted by peter on Friday, 22 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

This nosy badger was investigating our trail camera at the Linn of Tummel :)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Hatching Update 22nd May

Posted by peter on Friday, 22 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Following the initial wave of excitement as we got the first clear view of our newest arrival, I can now share with you the details that preceded this wonderful sight. Volunteers last night reported the female looking slightly restless but there was little in the way of the tell-tale egg hatching...

First chick hatched at Loch of the Lowes!

Posted by peter on Friday, 22 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

We are delighted to announce that our first chick has hatched at Loch of the Lowes! Please enjoy the views on our webcam and more news will follow soon! First chick at Loch of the Lowes © Scottish Wildlife Trust Charlotte, Perthshire Ranger.Original linkOriginal author: charlotteranger...

Excellent Catches

Posted by peter on Thursday, 21 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

A lot of fish were showing at the dam today but with nothing caught at changeover things seemed to following the pattern of the last few days - hard going with the fish not really in the mood. That changed mid afternoon when the fish really switched on: first into action...

Most of the trees are now in leaf, with a lovely mix of greens through the Pass...

Posted by peter on Thursday, 21 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Most of the trees are now in leaf, with a lovely mix of greens through the Pass of Killiecrankie :) The oak and ash are just starting to emerge.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Happy Returns

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 20 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Visiting angler Nick Webster celebrated his birthday in style today with two sea-liced fish - at 8 and 10lbs - from Pitlochry bank on the spinner this afternoon - I believe the champagne has been ordered for tonight - well done! Nick is back on Friday and with the river set...

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Posted by peter on Wednesday, 20 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

National Trust for Scotland outdoor conservation groupswww.nts.org.ukNational Trust for Scotland outdoor conservation groupsOriginal linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Osprey Update 19th May

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 19 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

With all fingers currently being crossed for hatching over the next week or so, here at Lowes we’re hoping for as little drama as possible. However, when it does rear its head it rarely fails to disappoint. On Sunday evening we saw an intruding osprey with a white leg ring circling...

Killiecrankie's red squirrels are enjoying the peanut feeders at the Visitor Cen...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 19 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Killiecrankie's red squirrels are enjoying the peanut feeders at the Visitor Centre. Centre assistant Clare caught this great shot from the centre balcony that overlooks the feeders :)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Fishing Well

Posted by peter on Monday, 18 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

A lot of fish were seen coming into PAC beats this morning and fortunately a few of them were willing to take: Colin Hislop was first into action with a fish of 9lbs on the spinner on Port-na-Craig bank in the morning; Steve Watt had a 10lber on the spinner on...

Webcam Gremlins!

Posted by peter on Sunday, 17 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Good morning from a bright and very breezy Loch of the Lowes! Just a quick note to apologise for the lack of webcam earlier this morning: it should now be streaming normally. As a visitor said to me earlier,”fingers, toes and two front teeth firmly crossed” that it stays that way! Thank...

Can you identify the location of this month’s mystery photo?

Posted by peter on Sunday, 17 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Can you identify the location of this month’s mystery photo?Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Two At The Dam, One At Ruan Ruarie

Posted by peter on Saturday, 16 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Colin Pugh caught his first ever salmon this morning - a 10lber on the fly from Port-na-Craig bank - congratulations; Neil Tong followed in the afternoon with a 12lb fish on the spinner also from Port-na-Craig bank. Our first Ruan Ruarie salmon, a 6lber, was caught today by Brian Lindsay -...

Osprey Update 16th May – Energy Eggonomics

Posted by peter on Saturday, 16 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The latest series of osprey intrusions has had the nesting pair in a bit of a flap this week. The nesting pair has been kept busy defending their realm from these unwelcome visitors, as well as from geese and gulls! Energy and time expended in defending the nest creates a deficit in...

Mixed Fortunes At The Dam And Sawmill

Posted by peter on Friday, 15 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It was almost the perfect start this morning: Ian Willis hooked a +20lb fish first thing on Pitlochry bank but lost it at the net after a 20 minute fight- unlucky. Over on Port-na-Craig bank Mike Smith was more fortunate - landing an 8lb fish on the spinner shortly before changeover....

The Hermitage is looking lovely with the fresh greens of spring. It’s an amazing...

Posted by peter on Friday, 15 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The Hermitage is looking lovely with the fresh greens of spring. It’s an amazing time to see wildlife, so why not come along to Killiecrankie this weekend where as part of the Cairngorms Nature Festival, we have an event on Saturday ‘Miniature Killiecrankie’ at 2pm and on Sunday at 10.30am a...

Ticking Over

Posted by peter on Thursday, 14 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The river didn't dropped less than expected overnight but with fish showing throughout the beat fishing conditions looked good this morning. As it turned out only one fish was caught: Andrew Wright was the successful angler with a fish of 10lb on the spinner early in the afternoon on Port-na-Craig bank....

Fishing Well

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 13 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The river remains at a good height and it was another productive day on PAC waters with three fish caught: at the Dam Iain McLaren had two - one at 10lbs one the fly from Pitlochry bank in the morning and one at 11lbs on the spinner from Port-na-Craig bank in...

If you're out near the Hermitage please keep an eye out for Mack. Lost since Thu...

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 13 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

If you're out near the Hermitage please keep an eye out for Mack. Lost since Thursday 2.30pm.Photos of LostDogs-Scotland.org.ukHi - this is Mack a 6 month old cocker spaniel puppy who went missing at the Hermitage car park (Dunkeld) yesterday at 2.30 pm. Please share and help us find him -...

This is the wonderful blossom of the wild cherry or gean (prunus avium), and eve...

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 13 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

This is the wonderful blossom of the wild cherry or gean (prunus avium), and even better the flowers are followed later on by tasty cherries! The second part of its botanical name ‘avium’ refers to birds, which eat the cherries and disperse the seeds. What’s your favourite spring flower and why?Original...

Steady Start To The Week

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 12 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The river dropped and cleared overnight and prospects looked good this morning. By lunchtime three fish had been lost and it looked as if it could be one of those frustrating days. Once again it was Steve Watt who saved the day with a 10lb fish from Port-na-Craig on the spinner...

Now is the best time for spring woodland flowers, this is a beautiful common dog...

Posted by peter on Monday, 11 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Now is the best time for spring woodland flowers, this is a beautiful common dog violet at The Hermitage. The name is derived supposedly from the fact that it has no scent at all - meaning it was only suitable for dogs.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Osprey Update 10th May

Posted by peter on Sunday, 10 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

For those of you who are regular osprey followers and webcam watchers I’m sure you are aware that incubation time here at Lowes is usually peaceful and uneventful – unlike the egg drama that our osprey friends at Loch Garten are currently experiencing! However there is still the occasional moment of...

Good End To The Week

Posted by peter on Saturday, 09 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The river remains at a good height but it was another day where perseverance was rewarded: after a quiet morning Steve Dora broke the deadlock just after changeover with an 8lb fish from Port-na-Craig bank on the fly - well done. Heavy rain is forecast for tomorrow - this should encourage...

This visitor to the Hermitage has been enjoying our bluebells today.

Posted by peter on Saturday, 09 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

This visitor to the Hermitage has been enjoying our bluebells today.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Duke of Edinburgh Awards

Posted by peter on Saturday, 09 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Over the last few years several Duke of Edinburgh Award students have chosen to do the volunteering part of their award with us at Loch of the Lowes. All three levels, Bronze, Silver and Gold can be done here and we enjoy the company (and make good use of their hard...

As part of the Cairngorms Nature Festival join the rangers on Sunday 17th May at...

Posted by peter on Friday, 08 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

As part of the Cairngorms Nature Festival join the rangers on Sunday 17th May at Killiecrankie for our Spring Explorers Safari. Meet at 10.30am at the visitor centre, adults £4, children £2, for a 2 hour explorers walk through the Pass of Killiecrankie. Learn about the wildflowers and trees and find...

Ticking Over

Posted by peter on Thursday, 07 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The water level dropped away nicely today but it didn't seem to encourage the fish - it was a relatively quiet day at the Dam although quite a few a few fish were seen in the beat. Ally Gowans did well, though, with a fish of about 8lb on the fly...

The Cairngorms Nature Festival is taking place on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th...

Posted by peter on Thursday, 07 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The Cairngorms Nature Festival is taking place on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th May at locations across the national park. On Saturday 16th May meet at Killiecrankie Visitor Centre at 2pm for our Miniature Killiecrankie event. Look closely at the plants and flowers; find out who or what is hiding in...

A Feast Fit for a Red Squirrel

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 06 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Sometimes on a walk in the woods you won't actually see a red squirrel, but here, on a fallen tree, is the evidence of a feast! A pine cone, neatly stripped at the bottom, with the debris from the meal left lying about....

Good Fishing Continues

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 06 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The river was at a good height at the Dam today and fished well: James Dornan was first into action with a 9lb fish from Port-na-Craig bank on a spinner this morning; Steve Watt caught a 9lber from Port-na-Craig in the afternoon - again on the spinner; and this evening Gordon...

Fishing Well

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 05 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Heavy rain at the Dam today but this didn't put a damper on the fishing: Graham Fyfe was first into action with a 7lb fish on the fly from Port-na-Craig bank this morning; Steve Watt then had an 11lber from Port-na-Craig bank on the spinner in the afternoon; Tom Monaghan followed...

It's been a wet day at the Hermitage today, making it a great time to view the w...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 05 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It's been a wet day at the Hermitage today, making it a great time to view the waterfall from Ossian's Hall.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Sawmill Success

Posted by peter on Monday, 04 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The river went up about a foot over the weekend and it wasn't to the liking of the Dam salmon - nothing caught despite best efforts. Further downstream at Sawmill it was a different story: Martin Timmins did well catching a sea-liced fish of 10lbs and losing another on a Vision...

Hedgehog Awareness Week

Posted by peter on Monday, 04 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

This week marks National Hedgehog Week, designed to raise awareness of these beautiful but endangered animals and to inspire us with ideas of how we can help them in our area. The west-European hedgehog Erinaceus europaeus is one of the 17 hedgehog species found around the world and is unmistakable as...

Ranger dog Alba's been checking out the view over the River Braan at the Hermita...

Posted by peter on Monday, 04 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Ranger dog Alba's been checking out the view over the River Braan at the Hermitage. The leaves on the trees are really starting to open up :)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Osprey Update 3rd May

Posted by peter on Sunday, 03 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Despite the recent constant changes in the weather conditions here at Lowes, in the last few days life at the eyrie has been quiet. With our first egg of the year laid on the 14th April, we are now approaching the half-way point of its incubation period (5 – 6 weeks)...

Super Saturday

Posted by peter on Saturday, 02 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It 's been a relatively quiet week on the Dam so far - five fish caught but all hard won. Today, though, was different - fresh fish were seen throughout the beat and this was reflected in the catches: Gary Waugh was first into action with a 7lb fish early morning...

Slavonian Grebe at Lowes!

Posted by peter on Saturday, 02 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Much excitement this morning as we have a Slavonian Grebe on the loch showing well from the observation hide! With our Wildflower Family Fun Day in full swing too why not take the opportunity to pop along and see it for yourself? It will likely be on passage to its more...

First Of May!

Posted by peter on Friday, 01 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It was a cold start at the Dam this morning - one angler reported iced rod rings first thing! - but fishing conditions looked reasonably good. As it turned out the fish weren't really in the mood and, as ever, perseverance was the key. Roger Collins stuck to the task and...

This roe deer buck was caught on our trail camera at the Linn of Tummel, scent m...

Posted by peter on Friday, 01 May 2015 in Highland Perthshire

This roe deer buck was caught on our trail camera at the Linn of Tummel, scent marking his territory. Scent glands between his antlers will help mark out his boundary when rubbed on trees like this.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Good End To The Month

Posted by peter on Thursday, 30 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

A stiff downstream breeze made things tricky at the Dam today. Casting skills were tested to the full and with only a few fish showing over the course of the morning a blank was becoming a real possibility. Shortly before midday Ally Gowans broke the deadlock, however, with a fish of...

CONTRASTING START FOR HILL LOCHS

Posted by peter on Thursday, 30 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The early season rods that have braved the elements have had mixed results.Bhac rainbows have been uncooperative to say the least with only a few reacting to flies fished deep on sunk lines.Kinardochy brownies,on the other hand,have responded well to spiders and black flies.We have been experiencing sharp frosts,snow flurries and...

Winter’s final fling?

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 29 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

We have been enjoying unseasonable warmth since the eggs were laid, but the skies are once again grey and foreboding of colder winds. The higher peaks of the Grampians have been smothered with a fresh coat of snow, and the ospreys’ full attention is turned to smooth incubation changeovers and efficient...