Recent blog posts - Highland Perthshire Blogs

Dam On Form

Posted by peter on Thursday, 16 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The river had settled back to a good level after yesterday's rise and with warmer temperatures and light winds prospects looked excellent this morning. First into action was Tummel regular Graham Nichols with a 14lber from Pitlochry bank on the fly. Ally Gowans then followed with a fish of the same...

The Wee Limits Adventure Academy have been very busy this week, here they are ra...

Posted by peter on Thursday, 16 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The Wee Limits Adventure Academy have been very busy this week, here they are rafting on the River Garry.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

BANK MAINTENANCE

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 15 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Some of tonight's work party - Club President Jimmy Ross to the left of photoClub members trimmed back vegetation which was obstructing paths on the members' Sawmill Beat tonight. This is part of this year's maintenance programme on the various Club waters which Club President Jimmy Ross organises....

Coming up: Weekend events and new trail launch

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 15 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

If last night’s “eggcitement” and the anticipation of more to come over the next few days isn’t enough for you, then we have a packed weekend of events and activities coming up. On Saturday afternoon at 2pm we once again welcome professional storyteller Lindsey Gibb to Loch of the Lowes for the second...

First osprey egg at Lowes!

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 14 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

We are delighted to announce that this evening at Loch of the Lowes our first osprey egg of 2015 was laid! Only 10 minutes before the event did our night watch staff first notice the classic signs of egg laying behaviour, including the female tail lifting and panting. At 20:50 she...

Last Cast

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 14 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The river was up a few inches this morning but still a great height for fishing. After a quiet day a few members ventured out for a cast in the evening and it was Martin Wilson who struck silver late on with a very nice 9 lb fish from Port-na-Craig bank...

A different angle of the Green Footbridge in the Pass of Killiecrankie

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 14 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

A different angle of the Green Footbridge in the Pass of KilliecrankieOriginal linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Fishing Well

Posted by peter on Monday, 13 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Fishing conditions were excellent today at the Dam - a falling river, light winds and an overcast sky - and the catches reflected this: Gordon Hanslip had a day to remember with two from Port-na-Craig bank in the morning at 18lbs and 12lbs - one on fly and one on a...

It wasn't quite as sunny at the Linn of Tummel today, but it is always a good wa...

Posted by peter on Sunday, 12 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It wasn't quite as sunny at the Linn of Tummel today, but it is always a good walk, whatever the weather!Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Last Gasp

Posted by peter on Saturday, 11 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

We've had a quiet couple of days at the dam - a few fish showing but none willing to take - despite best efforts. Today it looked like more of the same and with some inclement weather to contend with if anything success looked even less likely. With none caught during...

Three is a crowd, four is a mob.

Posted by peter on Saturday, 11 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It has been a chaotic 24 hours for our new pairing as we eagerly await their first egg. A large influx of ospreys from the continent has been making passage north after sheltering from severe weather in Iberia. Late on Friday morning a male intruder appeared but was swiftly chased off...

Nuts About Squirrels!

Posted by peter on Saturday, 11 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Having seen fewer red squirrels around our feeding station over the winter, it is lovely to see them back again! This Sunday, 12th April, we are delighted to have Ken Neil from Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels with us at Loch of the Lowes. Do you have Red Squirrels visiting your garden?...

The sunshine has been great this week :) We hope you're getting nice weather whe...

Posted by peter on Friday, 10 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The sunshine has been great this week :) We hope you're getting nice weather where you are. Here's a sunny Linn of Tummel.....Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Osprey Update 10th April

Posted by peter on Friday, 10 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The staff and volunteers at Loch of the Lowes are very proud of our history and association with osprey conservation, having been privileged to have these incredible birds on our reserve since 1969. In 1991, a new female appeared on the nest, and little did we know then just how important...

Another great PAC Open Night result £1200 raised for RHSC Yorkhill, Glasgow

Posted by peter on Friday, 10 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Cheque presentation from Pitlochry Angling Club to RHSC Yorkhill Children's Charity. From Left to Right Liam Mullin, Stevie Mullin, Gary Donlin from the Yorkhill Children's Charity, James Ross Pitlochry Angling Club President.Quote from Kirsten Sinclair Director of Fundraising Yorkhill Children's Charity, “We are incredibly grateful to the Pitlochry Angling Club for...

This comma butterfly was enjoying the sunshine at lunchtime, in the Dunkeld offi...

Posted by peter on Thursday, 09 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

This comma butterfly was enjoying the sunshine at lunchtime, in the Dunkeld office garden. It seemed to think the dog toy was a colourful flower :)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Remeber to be careful during this dry spell :)

Posted by peter on Thursday, 09 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Remeber to be careful during this dry spell :)Timeline PhotosScottish Fire and Rescue Service and the Scottish Wildfire Forum have issued a warning of increased #wildfire risk over next few days. For more information visit this link and check out the map - http://bit.ly/1yVwP0bOriginal linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Ospreys make a splash at Loch of the Lowes.

Posted by peter on Thursday, 09 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

As I’m sure many of our keen webcam viewers will have noticed our current female hasn’t been spending an enormous amount of time on the nest. However, never fear, this is nothing to worry about. It may seem a little strange considering the previous female was rather partial to spending a...

Quality Fish At The Dam

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 08 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It was a quiet morning at the Dam - conditions looked good but the fish didn't seem to be in the mood. That changed in the afternoon, though: Dave Stewart was first into action with a superb fish of 18lbs from Pitlochry bank on the fly; and Curtis Brunker followed up...

Meet The Team!

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 08 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Osprey season at Loch of the Lowes is our busiest time of the year, and we are so lucky to have a wonderful team of volunteers who travel from across the region to help us provide an exciting and educating experience for our visitors. We are also very fortunate to have on site volunteer...

Another animal caught on our trail camera up on Craigower was this red squirrel....

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 08 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Another animal caught on our trail camera up on Craigower was this red squirrel. It made several passes collecting bedding for its drey (nest) - what do you think it's carrying?Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Two At The Dam

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 07 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It was another good day at the Dam: Peter Shaw got things going with a 9lber on Port-na-Craig bank on a Toby this morning and soon after Steve Watt continued his good run with a hard fighting 16lber on Pitlochry bank on the fly. The river remains at a great height...

KINARDOCHY - 12 BHAC - 0

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 07 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

A very contrasting start to the season at the hill lochs. To be honest I am not in the least surprised as the week leading up to the opening weekend was bitterly cold with further snow showers and icy conditions. However, the brave souls who ventured out on Kinardochy were rewarded with...

Excellent Start To The Week

Posted by peter on Monday, 06 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The river dropped away nicely over the weekend and conditions looked to be close to ideal at the Dam this morning. Just one fish was caught, though, - Steve Watt landing an 8lber on the fly this morning on Pitlochry bank. Further downstream at the Sawmill we're finally off the mark...

Osprey Update 6th April

Posted by peter on Monday, 06 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Like the staff and volunteers at Loch of the Lowes, I’m sure the regular webcam viewers amongst you will have been equally relieved to see the pair back at the nest this morning. Over the Easter weekend the female seemed to be showing little interest in the male, and was instead...

Our first interactive "Battle of Killiecrankie" talk takes place this Wednesday...

Posted by peter on Monday, 06 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Our first interactive "Battle of Killiecrankie" talk takes place this Wednesday 8th April 2-3.30pm. Learn about the battle and the famous Soldier's Leap + kids crafts and replica weapons. £4 adult, £2 child. Meet at Killiecrankie Visitor Centre.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Wordsworth’s favourite flower wasn’t the daffodil, it was the beautiful lesser c...

Posted by peter on Sunday, 05 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Wordsworth’s favourite flower wasn’t the daffodil, it was the beautiful lesser celandine. He wrote no less than three poems about it. "There's a flower that shall be mine, 'Tis the little Celandine."Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Another Good Day At The Dam

Posted by peter on Friday, 03 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

With almost ideal conditions it was another good day at the Dam: visiting angler Nick Webster followed up his success of Wednesday with another superb fish first thing this morning - a 12lber from Port-na-Craig bank on a Flying C; while Teasses gamekeeper Kenny Horne continued his good run with two...

One couple have already arrived at Killiecrankie for the Cadbury Easter Egg trai...

Posted by peter on Friday, 03 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

One couple have already arrived at Killiecrankie for the Cadbury Easter Egg trail on Sunday 11am-2pmOriginal linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Good Catches

Posted by peter on Thursday, 02 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

We've had contrasting conditions at the Dam over the last two days - snow showers and strong winds yesterday and settled sunny weather today - but the result was the same with one fish on each day: yesterday (Wednesday) Nick Webster caught a 7lber on Port-na-Craig bank on a Flying C; and this...

Easter Weekend Eggstravaganza!!

Posted by peter on Thursday, 02 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

With the osprey season now in full swing and Easter weekend nearly upon us, we have a packed line-up of activities for all the family to enjoy at the visitor centre over the next few days… Tomorrow afternoon at 2pm we are joined by professional storyteller Lindsey Gibb who will be reading two...

A New “Lady” in Residence

Posted by peter on Thursday, 02 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It’s been nearly 48 hours since the new unidentified female osprey arrived at Loch of the Lowes, and she certainly hasn’t wasted any time settling in. Despite some rather regular hostility from our male she has not been put off and has firmly stood her ground in the nest. Since we...

Nearly time for the Cadbury Easter Egg Trails at The Hermitage on Saturday and K...

Posted by peter on Thursday, 02 April 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Nearly time for the Cadbury Easter Egg Trails at The Hermitage on Saturday and Killiecrankie on SundayOriginal linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

31st March – A New Rival for Lady

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 31 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

At 4.25pm this afternoon a female osprey arrived at the nest and a ripple of excitement immediately washed over the staff, volunteers and visitors at the reserve. Following detailed reviews of the footage we can confirm that it is not the veteran female “Lady” but is a new unidentified female. Her...

Good Start To The Week

Posted by peter on Monday, 30 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

With the river up and snow showers to contend with conditions weren't ideal for fishing at the dam today. Iain McLaren did well, though, catching a fresh 9lber on the fly on Port-na-Craig bank this morning - see below - safely returned. An excellent start to the week....

Osprey Update 30th March

Posted by peter on Monday, 30 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

All of the staff and volunteers are holding their breath and watching the skies waiting for the first glimpse of another osprey arriving at Loch of the Lowes. So far, there has been very little in the way of other osprey visitors, although the reported bad weather in Europe appears to...

Who said it was spring?! This was Killiecrankie this morning.

Posted by peter on Monday, 30 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Who said it was spring?! This was Killiecrankie this morning.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Week Ends On A High

Posted by peter on Saturday, 28 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It's been an excellent week at the dam with fish now here in numbers. Prospects today, however, weren't too promising - a rise in river levels overnight with unsettled windy conditions forecast. Steve Watt was equal to the task, though, continuing a good run with an 8lber on the fly from...

On Sunday 5th April we are running a Cadbury Easter Egg Trail at Killiecrankie,...

Posted by peter on Saturday, 28 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

On Sunday 5th April we are running a Cadbury Easter Egg Trail at Killiecrankie, starting times from 11am, the cost is £2 per child and like the Hermitage trail on the 4th no booking is required.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Good Fishing Continues

Posted by peter on Friday, 27 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

With an overnight rise in water levels and few fish showing the river had a quiet feel about it this morning - it looked as if the good run at the dam was coming to an end. Steve Watt persevered, though, and was rewarded with a 12lb bar of silver on...

Sound on the Webcam

Posted by peter on Friday, 27 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

We are currently experiencing issues with the sound quality from the Lowes’ webcam. Please bear with us, your patience is much appreciated. On a positive note – our male osprey has been giving a great demonstration on how to spruce up a nest! CherryOriginal linkOriginal author: jonathan...

Have you got plans for the Easter weekend? Why not join us on one of our Cadbur...

Posted by peter on Friday, 27 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Have you got plans for the Easter weekend? Why not join us on one of our Cadbury Easter Egg Trails? On Saturday 4th April we are at the Hermitage, trail departures are anytime between between 11am and 2pm and no booking is required, just turn up!Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger...

Ticking Over

Posted by peter on Thursday, 26 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

With sleet and snow showers this morning it wasn't a day for the faint hearted. Craig Cowan persevered, though, and with some nice casting on show was rewarded with a fresh 9lb fish on the fly early in the afternoon on Port-na-Craig bank - good effort. The river remains at a...

Osprey Update 26th March: Not quite spring yet…

Posted by peter on Thursday, 26 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Whilst waiting for his female to arrive, our resident male kept himself busy yesterday by making valiant attempts to enhance the nest with freshly collected sticks, delicately arranged into exactly the right position. Earlier this morning however his efforts to tidy appeared slightly in vain as his hard work was covered...

Fishing Well

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 25 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It was a cold start on the Tummel this morning but the conditions were good for fishing and it wasn't long before the first fish came to the net: mid morning Saul Mackay landed a fine fish of 17lbs and then followed up with an 8lb sea liced fish - both...

This pair were spotted at the Linn of Tummel

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 25 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

This pair were spotted at the Linn of TummelOriginal linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Good Day At The Dam

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 24 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The river has been at a good height for about a week now but the salmon have remained frustratingly elusive. Today, though, things took a turn for the good: Steve Watt got things going with a superb fish of 22lbs from Port-na-Craig bank in the morning and followed up with another...

Osprey Update 24th March

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 24 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Since his arrival in the early hours of Sunday, our resident male osprey has been busy organising his nest for the coming season. He immediately got to work, displaying some interesting cleaning techniques by using his body and splayed wings to flatten the growing grass tufts in the centre! It is...

A few more eclipse photos, (a little late we know!) these were taken over Craigo...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 24 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

A few more eclipse photos, (a little late we know!) these were taken over Craigower on Friday morning.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Lovely morning by the Tay today

Posted by peter on Monday, 23 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Lovely morning by the Tay todayOriginal linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

A big thank you to our volunteers who worked with us last week as part of their...

Posted by peter on Sunday, 22 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

A big thank you to our volunteers who worked with us last week as part of their Thistle Camp - see www.nts.org.uk/volunteering for more info. They carried out a great amount of work across our properties including path work, charcoal making, putting up nest boxes, fencing and much more. Thanks folks...

Resident Male Returns

Posted by peter on Sunday, 22 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

We are delighted to announce that at 5.38am this morning the resident male returned to the nest at Loch of the Lowes. Having been observed fishing on the loch the previous night, he arrived back at the eyrie in the early hours and immediately began housekeeping duties. He left at 6.18am...

No sign of ospreys yet…

Posted by peter on Friday, 20 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Anticipation at Loch of the Lowes is reaching fever pitch as we eagerly anticipate the arrival of our osprey pair. The male returned on 21st March last year so could he turn up over the weekend or even today?… we’ll all just have to keep watching and waiting. Needless to say...

We have had a trail camera up on Craigower for the first time. We caught lots of...

Posted by peter on Friday, 20 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

We have had a trail camera up on Craigower for the first time. We caught lots of wildlife including these.......Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Eclipse of the sun 9.30 this morning in Dunkeld, an eerie twilight descended upo...

Posted by peter on Friday, 20 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Eclipse of the sun 9.30 this morning in Dunkeld, an eerie twilight descended upon the town, if you look closely you can see a small image caught in the photo of the fountain, and the second image was using the pin hole camera methodOriginal linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

If you guessed the Hermitage you were correct - it's the totem pole that stands...

Posted by peter on Thursday, 19 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

If you guessed the Hermitage you were correct - it's the totem pole that stands in the woods between Ossians Hall and Cave.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

More Fish

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 18 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The good start to the week continued yesterday: Les Dargie opened his account with a 9lb sea liced fish on the fly from Port-na-Craig bank. The river remains at a good height and with generally settled conditions things are looking good as we head into the weekend....

No sound on webcam and CJS vacancy clarification

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 18 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Many of you have been contacting us over the last few days with regards to the lack of sound on the osprey webcam. We are currently experiencing some technical difficulties with the new microphone which was professionally installed and tested earlier in the year. We believe the issue is at the visitor centre...

Here's this month's mystery picture :) On which North Perthshire property would...

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 18 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Here's this month's mystery picture :) On which North Perthshire property would you find this?Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Vacancy extension – Community Jobs Scotland Assistant

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 17 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Due to a lack of interest in our Community Jobs Scotland vacancy for a 16-19 year old to complete a six month paid placement at Loch of the Lowes, the age restriction for this post have been relaxed to allow applicants up to the age of 24. If you know anyone...

Good Start To The Week

Posted by peter on Monday, 16 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Conditions looked good this morning and it didn't take long for Saul Mackay to capitalise - catching a 9 lb sea liced fish early this morning (fourth cast!) It was taken from Pitlochry bank on the fly. Things look to be picking up....

On a recent trip up Craigower, we spotted this female crossbill (males are reddi...

Posted by peter on Monday, 16 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

On a recent trip up Craigower, we spotted this female crossbill (males are reddish). Zooming in on the photo you can see how they get their name. The crossed tips of the bill allow them to prise seeds out of pine cones.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Off The Mark!

Posted by peter on Saturday, 14 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

With four fish hooked and lost on PAC waters so far this year it looked at times like our first fish would never come. Gary Waugh managed to break the deadlock first thing this morning, though, with a fine fish of around 7lbs from Pitlochry bank - well done. With settled...

Osprey e-newsletter

Posted by peter on Friday, 13 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

We understand that some of you have been experiencing difficulties accessing the live osprey webcam since we added the prompt screen to sign up to our new Osprey e-newsletter. You should be able to access the webcam either straight away or having signed up to the newsletter by clicking on the ‘No...

Swallows and cuckoos come later, in Highland Perthshire the real sign of spring...

Posted by peter on Friday, 13 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Swallows and cuckoos come later, in Highland Perthshire the real sign of spring on the way is the return of the oystercatcher. First heard at night about three weeks ago, now pairs are being seen on the ground in breeding territories. Their calls will become the backdrop to our lives for...

The Osprey Countdown begins!!

Posted by peter on Thursday, 12 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Osprey fever is growing here at Loch of the Lowes as we inch ever nearer to the potential return of our famous resident female ‘Lady’, for what would be her landmark 25th year. There have been a couple of reports of osprey sightings in Scotland already – one yesterday near Coupar Angus (not 15...

You might think it’s a good day for ducks today as the rain pours down, but they...

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 11 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

You might think it’s a good day for ducks today as the rain pours down, but they seemed happier sleeping in the sunshine on the Dunkeld riverbank yesterday. Hard to disagree.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

It may have snowed yesterday, but the sun was out today and a few early leaves a...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 10 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It may have snowed yesterday, but the sun was out today and a few early leaves are beginning to appear like these elder at Killiecrankie, any leaves out where you are yet?Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

The rocks upstream of the Linn of Tummel falls are in geological terms referred...

Posted by peter on Sunday, 08 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The rocks upstream of the Linn of Tummel falls are in geological terms referred to as a mélange. A mélange typically consists of a jumble of large blocks of varied lithologies (rock types) with no continuous bedding planes.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

The snow has melted away and the frogs are spawning now - have you seen any frog...

Posted by peter on Friday, 06 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The snow has melted away and the frogs are spawning now - have you seen any frog or toad activity in your local ponds? Sorry the pics a bit blurry - they kept moving :)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

European Tree of the Year – The results are in!!

Posted by peter on Thursday, 05 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The results of European Tree of the Year 2015 were announced this morning and ‘Lady’s Tree’ has finished in ninth place with 4,193 votes. An oak tree in the middle of a football pitch in Estonia has been awarded the title. The oak tree in Orissaare, a coastal resort in western Estonia,...

It's a wintry scene at Killiecrankie at the moment

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 04 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It's a wintry scene at Killiecrankie at the momentOriginal linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

It was a beautiful day at the Hermitage yesterday with plenty of water flowing d...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 03 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

It was a beautiful day at the Hermitage yesterday with plenty of water flowing down the Braan.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Some more snowdrops - this time on the riverbank in Dunkeld - but can you spot r...

Posted by peter on Monday, 02 March 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Some more snowdrops - this time on the riverbank in Dunkeld - but can you spot ranger dog Alba?Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Loch Rannoch fishing permits available online

Posted by peter on Friday, 27 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Loch Rannoch - Spectacular surroundings and outstanding fishing potential for brown trout, perch and pike. Click here for Google map linkThe loch is over 10 miles long east/west by up to 1 mile wide and drops to over 130m in depth at the east end. It is most noted for its huge...

Even with snow this week, we are still seeing signs of spring appearing, like th...

Posted by peter on Thursday, 26 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Even with snow this week, we are still seeing signs of spring appearing, like these hazel catkins. They add a nice hint of yellow to the bare twigs and branches :)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Daily opening, forthcoming events & European Tree of the Year

Posted by peter on Thursday, 26 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Daily opening As of this coming Sunday (1st March) the Visitor Centre resumes daily opening, from 10am-5pm. The exception to this will be on Monday (2nd March) when we’re holding our Pre-season gathering for our volunteers; more on that later… as a consequence the centre is closed to visitors but the...

Open Night Thursday March 19th

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 25 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Free Open Night to which members and the public are invited - Scotland’s Hotel on Thursday March 19th at 19.30.Programme: Presentation of Trophies.Raffle in aid of Yorkhill Royal Hospital for Sick Children.Fly-tying by local angler Ian Christie from ‘flybox uk’ of Perth. Ian will tie some trout and salmon flies using some...

We've tried many a time to try and catch a local otter on camera and finally we...

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 25 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

We've tried many a time to try and catch a local otter on camera and finally we got one :) Caught on our trail camera on the River Garry, at Linn of Tummel.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

We've had a good few inches of snow in the last 24 hours - here's the Linn of Tu...

Posted by peter on Monday, 23 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

We've had a good few inches of snow in the last 24 hours - here's the Linn of Tummel looking wintery again :)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Snowdrops are looking beautiful at The Hermitage in todays sunshine.

Posted by peter on Friday, 20 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Snowdrops are looking beautiful at The Hermitage in todays sunshine.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Yes this month’s mystery photo was of a wood pigeon, there are over 10 million o...

Posted by peter on Thursday, 19 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Yes this month’s mystery photo was of a wood pigeon, there are over 10 million of them in the UK. We think they are rather beautiful and worth a second glance. At Killiecrankie they can be seen close up at the bird feeders in front of the Visitor Centre.Original linkOriginal author:...

Who’s looking at you in this month’s mystery photo?

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 18 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Who’s looking at you in this month’s mystery photo?Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

European Tree of the Year – why you should vote NOW!

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 17 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

We are now over halfway through the voting period for European Tree of the Year, with only 11 days remain to register your vote! “Lady’s Tree” is still sitting in 9th place, with 1,860 votes. The early front-runners, Estonia and Hungary, continue to lead the competition by some distance. Here the voting as it currently stands…...

A pregnant cow was badly savaged in a ferocious dog attack at the Linn of Tummel...

Posted by peter on Monday, 16 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

A pregnant cow was badly savaged in a ferocious dog attack at the Linn of Tummel earlier in the year, she suffered extensive facial injuries. But the good news is she has made a good recovery and given birth to a healthy bull calf. Please remember that dog owners have a...

Our bird feeders have been busy this week at Killiecrankie.

Posted by peter on Friday, 13 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Our bird feeders have been busy this week at Killiecrankie.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

There's been a fresh landslide on the Forestry Commission owned land adjacent to...

Posted by peter on Thursday, 12 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

There's been a fresh landslide on the Forestry Commission owned land adjacent to the tallest tree at the Black Linn pool at the Hermitage. This path has been closed for sometime because of the landslip risk and this slide is clearly visible across the pool.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

The view from Craigower looking towards Schiehallion is one of our favourites on...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 10 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The view from Craigower looking towards Schiehallion is one of our favourites on our properties, this photo is a twist on that, it's been taken from the summit of Schiehallion looking back towards Craigower, the challenge is can you spot Craigower in the picture?Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

European Tree of the Year – One week down, three to go!!

Posted by peter on Monday, 09 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

After one week of voting in European Tree of the Year there are two early front-runners, Estonia (18,125 votes) and Hungary (14,634 votes). “Lady’s Tree” is currently sitting in 9th place, with 1,508 votes. Here’s the full leaderboard as it stands at the time of writing: Country No. of votes Estonia – Oak...

There was an incredible sunset at the weekend in North Perthshire

Posted by peter on Monday, 09 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

There was an incredible sunset at the weekend in North PerthshireOriginal linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

The remaining snow's melting quickly in the winter sun - here's the view south f...

Posted by peter on Sunday, 08 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The remaining snow's melting quickly in the winter sun - here's the view south from Craigower, looking down over Pitlochry.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

These red squirrels were spotted at Linn of Tummel this morning, chasing each ot...

Posted by peter on Thursday, 05 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

These red squirrels were spotted at Linn of Tummel this morning, chasing each other up and down the trunk of the tree as part of their courtship display - spring is in the air :)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

The recent freezing conditions have created some impressive icicles. These ones...

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 04 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

The recent freezing conditions have created some impressive icicles. These ones formed from water dripping off the Pass of Killiecrankie railway viaduct.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

European Tree of the Year – cast your votes NOW!!

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 03 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

So the time has arrived… Following our “treemendous” success at the end of 2014 with “Lady’s Tree” being “crowned” inaugural Scottish Tree of the the Year, voting has now opened for the even more prestigious title of European Tree of the Year 2015. The online vote which began on Sunday runs until the...

Some of Dunkeld's fallow deer have been sheltering and resting up on Stanley Hil...

Posted by peter on Monday, 02 February 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Some of Dunkeld's fallow deer have been sheltering and resting up on Stanley Hill, just behind our office, but it looks like the one on the right isn't allowed much rest!!Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

A beautiful weekend, sunshine and a light dusting of snow at Killiecrankie. But...

Posted by peter on Saturday, 31 January 2015 in Highland Perthshire

A beautiful weekend, sunshine and a light dusting of snow at Killiecrankie. But take care if you’re out for a walk because there’s still ice on many pathsOriginal linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Alexander Mackenzie 1st Liberal Prime Minister of Canada was born on the 28th Ja...

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 28 January 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Alexander Mackenzie 1st Liberal Prime Minister of Canada was born on the 28th January 1822 at Logierait, he spent his childhood living at Killiecrankie and Cathedral Street in DunkeldOriginal linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

What a difference a few days make, still some snow and ice around The Hermitage,...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 27 January 2015 in Highland Perthshire

What a difference a few days make, still some snow and ice around The Hermitage, but nothing like it was last week when the spray from the falls was freezing everything it touched. What will the next cold spell bring?Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

You can see both Killiecrankie and The Hermitage on a special Burn’s night editi...

Posted by peter on Friday, 23 January 2015 in Highland Perthshire

You can see both Killiecrankie and The Hermitage on a special Burn’s night edition of the BBC’s Countryfile programme 6.30 this Sunday evening. This was presenter John Craven learning about Niel Gow's meeting with Robert Burns from local fiddler Pete Clark. To hear the story tune into to BBC1 and let...

Some Craigower pictures in the snow

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 20 January 2015 in Highland Perthshire

Some Craigower pictures in the snowOriginal linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...