Recent blog posts - Highland Perthshire Blogs

Photos from Scottish Tree of the Year

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 04 November 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Staff and volunteers at Loch of the Lowes have been celebrating the awarding of the inaugural Scottish Tree of the Year title to “Lady’s Tree” since the announcement was made last Thursday, prior to the presentation ceremony at the Scottish Parliament that evening. I was lucky enough to be invited along to attend...

We are pleased to announce that Killiecrankie has successfully retained its ‘Gre...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 04 November 2014 in Highland Perthshire

We are pleased to announce that Killiecrankie has successfully retained its ‘Green Business Tourism Scheme’ Gold Award. We try to take green actions where ever we can, hence following our Halloween event a happy addition to the compost heap. Apparently the soup was scrumptious!!Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Nice youtube film of the recent Decorated Wheelbarrow Procession held as part of...

Posted by peter on Monday, 03 November 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Nice youtube film of the recent Decorated Wheelbarrow Procession held as part of Heritage Saturday during the Perthshire Amber festival see http://youtu.be/nUEGuBNJIYE Thanks to Bryce Morrison.Dunkeld Wheelbarrow Procession 2014 - Perthshire Amber FestivalA unique annual event hosted by Dougie MacLean and team in which local organisations and individuals decorate their wheelbarrows...

Look out for the Pass of Killiecrankie in tonight's episode of Tony Robinson's "...

Posted by peter on Saturday, 01 November 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Look out for the Pass of Killiecrankie in tonight's episode of Tony Robinson's "Walking Through History", Saturday 1st Nov, 8pm Channel 4.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Craigwood above Dunkeld this week, just one of the backdrops to the town still i...

Posted by peter on Friday, 31 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Craigwood above Dunkeld this week, just one of the backdrops to the town still in its stunning autumn colours. If you like this photo please share it and help us reach 500 likes, just 5 to go!Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

LADY’S TREE HAS WON SCOTLAND’S TREE OF THE YEAR AWARD!

Posted by peter on Thursday, 30 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

This year being the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s 50th Anniversary, we and I’m sure our veteran osprey are thrilled that this iconic Scots Pine tree has won this award. Scots Pine Tree – Copywrite SWT (Jon.Close) A reminder why this Scots Pine is a worthy Winner: The Scots Pine is native to...

An early autumn morning on Craigower

Posted by peter on Thursday, 30 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

An early autumn morning on CraigowerOriginal linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Deer Family Fun Weekend

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 28 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Join us this weekend for Deer quizzes and crafts. Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd of November 11am – 3pm Here in Scotland our native Deer are Roe deer, Fallow deer and Red deer. At the visitor centre this weekend you can find out more about how to identify each of them...

Our Hallowe'en craft days at Killiecrankie on Friday 31st October and Saturday 1...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 28 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Our Hallowe'en craft days at Killiecrankie on Friday 31st October and Saturday 1st November are drop in sessions running between 11am and 4pm. Activities will include Hallowe'en charcoal drawings, ghost leaf prints, making handprint spiders and creating a mummy pencil holder. Activities are suitable for children from 5 - 12 years...

One of our most photographed views, the Black Linn Falls at the Hermitage

Posted by peter on Monday, 27 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

One of our most photographed views, the Black Linn Falls at the HermitageOriginal linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Some more Autumn colours for you - this time taken at the Linn of Tummel.

Posted by peter on Sunday, 26 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Some more Autumn colours for you - this time taken at the Linn of Tummel.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

The Trust team are the proud winners of the Decorated Wheelbarrow parade, held e...

Posted by peter on Saturday, 25 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

The Trust team are the proud winners of the Decorated Wheelbarrow parade, held each year as part of the Dougie MacLean Perthshire Amber Festival. Our barrow was celebrating the 325th anniversary of the Battle of Dunkeld. The Trust and the festival also held a joint Heritage afternoon which was a great...

We have Hallowe'en craft activities running at Killiecrankie Visitor Centre on F...

Posted by peter on Saturday, 25 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

We have Hallowe'en craft activities running at Killiecrankie Visitor Centre on Friday 31st October and Saturday 1st November, from 11am - 4pm both days, come along anytime and join in.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Just a reminder about Dunkeld's events tomorrow (Sat 25th Oct). Why not come alo...

Posted by peter on Friday, 24 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Just a reminder about Dunkeld's events tomorrow (Sat 25th Oct). Why not come along and check out our entry in the Decorated Wheelbarrow Procession - starts 11am, followed by "Heritage Saturday" in Stanley Hill Park from 12noon.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

The colours are looking great this year :)

Posted by peter on Thursday, 23 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

The colours are looking great this year :)https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/q82/p100x100/10653855_642624105855160_6263994062236477652_n.jpg?oh=4833fe5805d3d0991dd64be13ebda485&oe=54AA8E2B&__gda__=1424114733_2bdb394911b09f7841a70b6a670563e0Scottish Natural HeritageThe Pass of Killiecrankie is one of Scotland’s most famous historic sites. It’s also a natural gem and is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its semi-ancient oak woodlands. The National Trust for Scotland manage the area and remove...

We had great fun on our Autumn Art event yesterday - creating giant art and some...

Posted by peter on Thursday, 23 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

We had great fun on our Autumn Art event yesterday - creating giant art and some smaller woodland crafts to take home too.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

There's lots going on in Dunkeld this Saturday as part of the Perthshire Amber D...

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 22 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

There's lots going on in Dunkeld this Saturday as part of the Perthshire Amber Dougie MacLean Festival. At 11am is the Decorated Wheelbarrow Procession through the streets of Dunkeld, a truly unique parade! Starting at 12.30pm there is a Stanley Hill Heritage Afternoon with historical demonstrations, live music, ancient weaponry, crafts,...

Our "Autumn Art" event takes place tomorrow (Wed 22nd Oct, 2-4pm) at the Hermita...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 21 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Our "Autumn Art" event takes place tomorrow (Wed 22nd Oct, 2-4pm) at the Hermitage. Help us create some big 3D art in the woods plus make some smaller crafts to take home with you. Children £2, accompanying adults free.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Scottish Tree of the Year – it’s the final countdown!

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 21 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

There are only days left now to register your vote for “Lady’s Tree” in the Scottish Tree of the Year 2014. The competition, organised by the Woodland Trust, aims to highlight the incredible stories behind some of Scotland’s most iconic trees – none more so we would argue than the tree which...

A big thank you to our Thistle Camp volunteers who worked with us last week (www...

Posted by peter on Monday, 20 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

A big thank you to our Thistle Camp volunteers who worked with us last week (www.nts.org.uk/thistlecamps).They helped us with charcoal burns, woodland work and path maintenance etc. The weather was good too and the autumn colours were really starting tocome through.Autumn Thistle CampA big thank you to our Thistle Camp volunteers...

View from the Killiecankie visitor Centre now looking great, time for a visit?

Posted by peter on Saturday, 18 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

View from the Killiecankie visitor Centre now looking great, time for a visit?Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Autumn views from the Garry Bridge are looking good, if a little damp this morni...

Posted by peter on Friday, 17 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Autumn views from the Garry Bridge are looking good, if a little damp this morning. South to the Linn of Tummel and north through the Pass of Killiecrankie. Where’s your favourite autumn colours location?Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Secret World of Fungi

Posted by peter on Thursday, 16 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Looking for a fun day out for all the family during October half-term?… Coming up this weekend we have a fungi-filled weekend of activities which should appeal to any budding mycologists out there. We will have information displays in the visitor centre to help you identify mushrooms and toadstools in your local area,...

Fly tying evenings

Posted by peter on Thursday, 16 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

MonkeyBeginners and experienced fly tiers alike, everyone is welcome even if you just want to come along for a blether and a beer, that's fine too. Our fly tying evenings are free of charge. If you want to tie some flies bring along your kit and materials (and a portable lamp if possible)....

Great End to The Season

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 15 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Salmon fishing on Pitlochry Angling Club waters ended on a high with eight fish caught in the last two days of the season. On Tuesday Alan Conroy got things going at the dam with a 12lb fish on a Rapala from Port-na-Craig bank. Further upstream Ruan Ruarie regular Dave Wilson had...

Not a heavy acorn crop this year, though individual trees seem to have plenty. T...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 14 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Not a heavy acorn crop this year, though individual trees seem to have plenty. Trying to get photos of a jay gathering acorns but so far the acorns are proving easier to photograph! Anyone else enjoying watching the jays gather in their winter food stores?Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Looking for something to do with the kids? Why not enjoy a walk to Soldier's Lea...

Posted by peter on Saturday, 11 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Looking for something to do with the kids? Why not enjoy a walk to Soldier's Leap and the Pass of Killiecrankie. Visit the visitor centre where the kids can sketch with our very own Killiecrankie artist's charcoal as part of the Big Draw :)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Osprey Withdrawals? Who to watch this winter

Posted by peter on Saturday, 11 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Its been a very mixed year for ospreys in the UK and not without a few surprises- such as the one male, two nests saga at FCS /RSPB Aberfoyle- and tragedy- such as the loss of the well known female and her chicks at Tweed Valley Project main nest. This of...

The sun was hitting some mist as we walked around the Linn of Tummel this week,...

Posted by peter on Thursday, 09 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

The sun was hitting some mist as we walked around the Linn of Tummel this week, creating an atmospheric scene :)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

The arrival of October has seen the arrival of the rain! This is good news for o...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 07 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

The arrival of October has seen the arrival of the rain! This is good news for our local salmon as the higher river levels will help them on their journey upstream to spawn. Here are some of last year's salmon leaping at the Hermitage, on the NTS Nature Channel.Salmon Jumping at...

VOTE FOR LADY’S TREE AS SCOTLAND’S TREE OF THE YEAR

Posted by peter on Saturday, 04 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

We have been shortlisted for Scotland’s Tree of the year As of 8th September voting has commenced for Scottish Tree of the Year! You have from now until 26th October to make that vote count. So what are you waiting for, tell all your friends and family and get voting! (NB...

Congratulations to our Junior Rangers who completed their week with presentation...

Posted by peter on Friday, 03 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Congratulations to our Junior Rangers who completed their week with presentations this evening, see below for some of the artwork about the different days; and to last year's Junior Rangers who received their John Muir Conserver Awards, an excellent achievement.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Just a reminder that if you are planning a visit to the Hermitage this Saturday,...

Posted by peter on Thursday, 02 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Just a reminder that if you are planning a visit to the Hermitage this Saturday, it is likely to be very busy and a bit noisy with the Colin McRae car rally taking place in the neighbouring woodland and spectators will be using the A9/Hermitage junction.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger...

Fish at the Dam

Posted by peter on Thursday, 02 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Very few anglers have been out in the last few weeks but visiting angler Kevin Smith showed that it's still worth a cast - catching fish at 7 and 8lbs from Port-na-Craig bank on Monday - one on the fly and one the spinner. Rain is forecast over the next few...

If you are planning an evening to see the Enchanted Forest this month why not co...

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 01 October 2014 in Highland Perthshire

If you are planning an evening to see the Enchanted Forest this month why not combine it with a visit to one of our properties for an autumnal walk beforehand. Alternatively come along and join in with one of our autumn events, the last Battle of Killiecrankie event of the year...

The Enchanted Forest opens this week at Faskally Wood near Pitlochry. Here's a...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 30 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

The Enchanted Forest opens this week at Faskally Wood near Pitlochry. Here's a taster of one of this year's displays.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Day 2 of the Junior Ranger week saw us constructing shelters in the woods at the...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 30 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Day 2 of the Junior Ranger week saw us constructing shelters in the woods at the Linn of Tummel. Afterwards we learnt how to light fires using flint, whilst leaving no trace behind, after enjoying marshmallows around the fire site. Even the staff got to have a go!Original linkOriginal author: North...

This week the new Junior Rangers from Pitlochry High School are working with ran...

Posted by peter on Monday, 29 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

This week the new Junior Rangers from Pitlochry High School are working with ranger services across Highland Perthshire. Today they were busy at Killiecrankie building bird boxes, sowing wild flower beds, clearing brash and creating the bug hotel shown below.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

We haven't had much rain recently so the rivers are pretty low but there is stil...

Posted by peter on Sunday, 28 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

We haven't had much rain recently so the rivers are pretty low but there is still lots to spot, like this dipper hunting for aquatic insects on the River Tay, Dunkeld.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Ruan Ruarie Success

Posted by peter on Saturday, 27 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Dave Wilson did well (again) with a nice grilse of about 3 lbs from Ruan Ruarie on Wednesday. Plenty of fish were showing by all accounts. Maybe time for a few more before the end of the season - definitely worth a go....

Red Squirrel News this Autumn

Posted by peter on Thursday, 25 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

We’ve been getting a lot of questions about Red Squirrels this week- mainly ” Where are they all ?”. Don’t worry , they haven’t all disappeared, the explanation lies in their seasonal habits….. Red Squirrel- copyright SWT Adult squirrels are now at the tail end of weaning their last kits of...

We've had no luck catching any otter footage on the burn at Linn of Tummel :( b...

Posted by peter on Thursday, 25 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

We've had no luck catching any otter footage on the burn at Linn of Tummel :( but we did get a close up of this heron :)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

We are just starting to see a change in the trees as we head further into Autumn...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 23 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

We are just starting to see a change in the trees as we head further into Autumn. This was the Pass of Killiecrankie this morning. We will keep you updated on how the Autumn colours develop over the next month or so :)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Times are a Changing at Loch of the Lowes

Posted by peter on Monday, 22 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Autumn is my favourite season at Loch of the Lowes ( well second after osprey hatching time) with its beautiful colours and the daily changes to the light, the landscape and the wildlife arriving and leaving. The woods around the loch are starting to colour up- though not anywhere near the...

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Posted by peter on Monday, 22 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Timeline PhotosWe're reviewing how we engage with our members & visitors via social media and we'd like your feedback to help us improve. As a thank you for completing a short survey, we're offering you the chance to win a National Trust for Scotland Membership (or Gift Membership), a £100 eVoucher...

A rarely seen view of Dunkeld, any idea where it was taken from?

Posted by peter on Saturday, 20 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

A rarely seen view of Dunkeld, any idea where it was taken from?Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

There are lots of gossamer spider webs around at the moment.

Posted by peter on Thursday, 18 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

There are lots of gossamer spider webs around at the moment.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

A big thank you to the Primary 7 class from the Royal School of Dunkeld who spen...

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 17 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

A big thank you to the Primary 7 class from the Royal School of Dunkeld who spent this afternoon working hard at the Hermitage as part of their John Muir Award. We did lots of jobs including thinning young saplings, making bird boxes, replanting at Ossian's Hall and helping to get...

Tremendous trees family fun days this weekend

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 17 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

We have been enjoying the beautiful afternoon sunshine across the Loch from our hide and making the most of the remaining light, along the short woodland walk from the car park, as the evenings draw closer. The autumn equinox is nearly upon us; Tuesday 23rd September marks the arrival of the...

Time to plan ahead for visits to see Highland Perthshire’s autumn colours. Only...

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 17 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Time to plan ahead for visits to see Highland Perthshire’s autumn colours. Only the early hints of what is to come in Dunkeld this morning, but look out for further posts as colours really start to appear.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Whilst out on patrol at Linn of Tummel, we spotted this red squirrel climbing up...

Posted by peter on Sunday, 14 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Whilst out on patrol at Linn of Tummel, we spotted this red squirrel climbing up a Scot's Pine. Please share if you can spot it and lets see if we can get up towards 500 likes -thanks :)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

First Fish!

Posted by peter on Saturday, 13 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

A quiet week at the dam but to be fair very few anglers have been out. For club member Chris Oliver, though, it's been a memorable one - catching his first ever salmon on Monday - a 7lber on the fly from Port-na-Craig bank. Good effort - and hopefully the first...

Much to the delight of both the local community and visitors, following completi...

Posted by peter on Friday, 12 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Much to the delight of both the local community and visitors, following completion of a five month conservation repairs project, the water is finally flowing again at the Atholl Memorial Fountain. Why not come and see it for yourself.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Fantastic News about The Tree of The Year!

Posted by peter on Friday, 12 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

We are delighted and excited to tell you that the tree that is home to the female osprey at Loch of the Lowes, affectionately known by many as ‘Lady’, has been shortlisted for Scottish Tree of the Year. This magnificent Scots Pine is viewed and admired by people from all around...

Here's this month's mystery picture :) Can you guess which of the North Perthshi...

Posted by peter on Thursday, 11 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Here's this month's mystery picture :) Can you guess which of the North Perthshire properties it is?Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

A reminder about this Friday's fiddle concert at Dunkeld Cathedral - get your ti...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 09 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

A reminder about this Friday's fiddle concert at Dunkeld Cathedral - get your tickets online :) Timeline PhotosPerthshire-based fiddler Pete Clark will be playing an unusual willow violin at Dunkeld Cathedral on Friday. Made from the branch of a willow tree growing at Inveresk Lodge Garden in Musselburgh, this unique, hand-crafted...

Lovely September day at the Hermitage - hardly a cloud in the sky :)

Posted by peter on Monday, 08 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Lovely September day at the Hermitage - hardly a cloud in the sky :)Sunny September morning @ the HermitageLovely September day at the Hermitage - hardly a cloud in the sky :)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

It's superb conditions for fungi at the moment, spotted a family of fly agarics...

Posted by peter on Saturday, 06 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

It's superb conditions for fungi at the moment, spotted a family of fly agarics (the red mushroom with the spots); and some translucent porcleain fungi growing on a beech log today.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Loch of the Lowes on TV

Posted by peter on Saturday, 06 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Earlier this season we were visited by a BBC film crew who were making Street Patrol UK, a series highlighting antisocial behaviour in all its forms. They were at Loch of the Lowes to focus on wildlife crime and here’s a link to the BBC iplayer to see Emma Rawling and several...

Pitlochry Ladder Update

Posted by peter on Thursday, 04 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Just to update the previous graph of salmon counts at Pitlochry Dam fish ladder using information from our popular Pitlochry counter Twitter site. Grilse finally made an appearance and are now running the ladder, although not in huge numbers....

Trout and grayling fishing on the R Tummel, cooler days and more hatches

Posted by peter on Thursday, 04 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

After recent rains and cooler weather there has been a notable improvement in fishing. Lots of different methods bringing success, French nymph, wet fly and dry fly being some of the most popular ways to enjoy great sport. Anglers report some double figure catches of trout and a few grayling too...

Wildlife Diary 3rd August

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 03 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Whilst there is a real hint of autumn in the air around highland Perthshire, we are bathed this week in lovely sunshine. There are small touches of autumn colour on the lochside trees and the numbers of geese are building daily. Today we had another visit from a hybrid Barnacle goose...

Some CV action shots, and a big thank you for all the hard work guys :-)

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 03 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Some CV action shots, and a big thank you for all the hard work guys :-)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Our Conservation Volunteers have been hard at work at the riverside bath in Birn...

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 03 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Our Conservation Volunteers have been hard at work at the riverside bath in Birnam over the last few days. Jobs involved replacing a flight of wooden steps, re-gravelling part of the footpath and car park area, and making bird boxes. We've not quite finished the car park area yet so if...

We had a great day at Birnam Highland Games on Saturday - you might just spot ou...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 02 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

We had a great day at Birnam Highland Games on Saturday - you might just spot our stall in the background :) The Atholl Highlanders were the special guests at the Birnam Highland Games on Saturday. It was the 150th year of the Games there.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Digital Landscape Photography Courses

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 02 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Next month, experienced photographer Ron Walsh is offering bespoke one-to-one digital landscape photography workshops based around Loch of the Lowes. All proceeds from these workshops will go towards our Osprey Satellite Tracking programme. Dates are available throughout October so if you would like more information then call the Visitor Centre for...

We were hoping to catch some badger cubs on the trail camera but just caught the...

Posted by peter on Monday, 01 September 2014 in Highland Perthshire

We were hoping to catch some badger cubs on the trail camera but just caught the one adult this time. We'll keep trying :)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

THE HILLS ARE ALIVE

Posted by peter on Sunday, 31 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Although our salmon colleagues have had very little to crow about on the river lately,the hill lochs have been very much alive with the sound of screaming reels.Catch returns show some excellent sport has been enjoyed by anglers with most preferring to do catch and release.Successful flies on Kinardochy have been...

Still Fish About

Posted by peter on Saturday, 30 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

With low water earlier in the week conditions weren't ideal on Ruan Ruarie but David Wilson showed what can be done with a grilse of about 3lbs on Wednesday. Since then we've had heavy rain and the Garry is now settling back to a good height - hopefully next week will...

Sunshine between showers :) Here's a view of Craigower - we manage the summit -...

Posted by peter on Friday, 29 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Sunshine between showers :) Here's a view of Craigower - we manage the summit - taken from one of our other properties, Linn of Tummel.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

We’ve all gone batty at Loch of the Lowes – Final Instalment. 29th August

Posted by peter on Friday, 29 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Monday night was National Bat Night, and we had a wonderful evening learning all about bats here at Loch of the Lowes. After an informative presentation from one of our Visitor Centre team, the weather was on our side and gave us the perfect opportunity to take our visitors out to...

Why not visit the North Perthshire Ranger's stall at the Birnam Highland Games t...

Posted by peter on Thursday, 28 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Why not visit the North Perthshire Ranger's stall at the Birnam Highland Games this Saturday, 30th August. For more information visit www.birnamhighlandgames.com A fun day out including the Mad Kiltie Dash and the World Haggis Eating Championship!Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

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Posted by peter on Wednesday, 27 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Timeline PhotosDid you know that the Trust cares for over 76,000 hectares of countryside? We'd love you to explore it so take a look at our FREE walking trails and plan a visit today > www.nts.org.uk/WalkingOriginal linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Here are a few of the fungi spotted on our foray yesterday. If you missed it, wh...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 26 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Here are a few of the fungi spotted on our foray yesterday. If you missed it, why not come along to our next one at the Hermitage, Friday 24th Oct, 10am-12noon. Adult £4, Child £2.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

A tawny grisette discovered at the Hermitage on our fungi foray this morning.

Posted by peter on Monday, 25 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

A tawny grisette discovered at the Hermitage on our fungi foray this morning.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

We’ve all gone batty at Loch of the Lowes – Part 2! 25th August

Posted by peter on Monday, 25 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Here at Lowes we have been busy surveying our buildings for bat roosts, and also monitoring our bat boxes which are located around the reserve. So far we have found several Soprano pipistrelle roosts, and are delighted to see that some of our bat boxes are also currently in use! Different...

New species record for Killiecrankie - Spiked rampion (Phyteuma spicatum) was sp...

Posted by peter on Monday, 25 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

New species record for Killiecrankie - Spiked rampion (Phyteuma spicatum) was spotted by a visitor near Soldier’s Leap earlier this year. Native to East Sussex and the continent, there are very few records in the UK. It is thought our specimen may be from a seed that has fallen out a...

Diary date: 12th September. There’s a great concert with acclaimed local fiddle...

Posted by peter on Saturday, 23 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Diary date: 12th September. There’s a great concert with acclaimed local fiddler Pete Clark, in Dunkeld Cathedral raising money for the Trust. We will get a share and put towards educational materials. To book your tickets visit www.nts.org.uk/site/Fundraising-eventsOriginal linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Wildlife Diary 22nd August

Posted by peter on Friday, 22 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

There is a real taste of autumn in the air here in the highlands despite it still being August. The nights are decidedly chilly and the sound of geese arriving is filling the air. They local Canada goose population has started congregating on the lochs (today’s count 180) and they will...

We’ve all gone batty at Loch of the Lowes: 21st August

Posted by peter on Thursday, 21 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Whilst the warm weather may be stirring clouds of midges that spoil waterside picnics for some, for bats it has created an all you can eat buffet! With a single Pipistrelle bat able to consume 3000 midges in one night, the bats here at Lowes have been seen making the most...

On Monday 25th August we are running a beginner's guide to fungi, covering ID ti...

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 20 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

On Monday 25th August we are running a beginner's guide to fungi, covering ID tips and folklore. Meet at the Hermitage, lower car park at 10am, walk lasts until midday, no booking required. Cost Adults £4; Children £2Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Tomorrow, Thursday 21st August is the 325th anniversary of the Battle of Dunkeld...

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 20 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Tomorrow, Thursday 21st August is the 325th anniversary of the Battle of Dunkeld. You can get to grips with the gory details of the battle at an interactive story telling event followed by children’s crafts. 2-3.30pm in Dunkeld. Adults £4 Kids £2Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

A young nuthatch has been seen on the killiecrankie bird feeders, it's top of th...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 19 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

A young nuthatch has been seen on the killiecrankie bird feeders, it's top of the pecking order quickly pushing off other birds from the peanuts.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

10 things to Look Forward To

Posted by peter on Monday, 18 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

10 things to look forward to in the coming weeks at Loch of the Lowes this August/September: Migrating ospreys dropping by to visit us and fishing in our lochs- every visitor can help contribute to osprey research by looking for leg rings on these birds. Watching all our fledgling birds learning...

Tony Robinson was filming at Killiecrankie recently for the series ‘Walking Thou...

Posted by peter on Monday, 18 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Tony Robinson was filming at Killiecrankie recently for the series ‘Walking Though History’. We’ll let you know when it’s going to be on TV and yes he did actually walk through the Pass, well done Tony.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

The falls at Linn of Tummel are still quite high but water levels are getting ba...

Posted by peter on Sunday, 17 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

The falls at Linn of Tummel are still quite high but water levels are getting back to normal after this week's heavy rain.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

August is a great month for pinks and purples across the North Perthshire proper...

Posted by peter on Friday, 15 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

August is a great month for pinks and purples across the North Perthshire properties :)Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Good Returns

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 13 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Ruan Ruarie has now dropped back to a good height after the heavy rain at the weekend. Corin Smith was able to take advantage with a salmon of 10lbs and a grilse of 4lbs - both on the fly. Further downstream at the dam Brian Joseph picked up two good sea...

This month's mystery picture: What's been feasting on these ripening hazelnuts?...

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 13 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

This month's mystery picture: What's been feasting on these ripening hazelnuts? We spotted them on a path at Linn of Tummel.Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...

Osprey Visitors 11th August

Posted by peter on Monday, 11 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Great exciting on the Loch of the Lowes osprey nest this morning just after 9.30am when two ospreys landed on the nest- but it was immediately apparent from the birds body language that it wasn’t our normal pair. One of the birds was clearly our male , who arrived with a half...

Have you watched any of the wildlife and landscape films on the NTS Nature Chann...

Posted by peter on Monday, 11 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Have you watched any of the wildlife and landscape films on the NTS Nature Channel yet? Why not check out the recently added short film showing some highlights from Killiecrankie...........killie edit1Filmed by NTS ranger L Medine - some landscapes and wildlife of the Pass of Killiecrankie, Perthshire. www.nts.org.uk/property/killiecrankie/Original linkOriginal author: North...

Fish About

Posted by peter on Saturday, 09 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Low water and hot weather isn't the best weather for fishing but James Dornan showed that with a bit of effort they can still be caught - with a nice fish of about 5lbs on the fly from Pitlochry bank on Thursday. This morning the river came up by about 10...

Osprey Diary 8th August

Posted by peter on Friday, 08 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Well folks, it looks like there is no longer any doubt our beloved female osprey has left on her autumn migration as we haven’t seen her on the loch now since Monday. We all wish her a safe and swift journey to her wintering grounds, and a most welcome return next spring if...

Stirling International Angling Festival - maybe involving the Tummel?

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 06 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Stirling International Angling Festival takes place from 6-10 August and we wish it well. The main public events are on Saturday and Sunday 9 and 10 August, but over the whole event, there are the sessions in a Six Nations Fly Fishing Championship. The river sessions of this, which are on an all catch...

The griffin is a legendary creature, part lion / part eagle, thought of as king...

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 06 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

The griffin is a legendary creature, part lion / part eagle, thought of as king of all creatures and known for guarding treasure and priceless possessions. As the Dunkeld fountain conservation project nears completion, the one and only griffin on the fountain has been returned to its former glory and once...

Saving for a rainy day

Posted by peter on Wednesday, 06 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Despite the fact that the day has been very wet, we have had plenty of interesting animals visit us today at Loch of the Lowes A lovely Grey Heron dropped in on the osprey nest this morning for a look- here’s a link to the video: http://youtu.be/vgW7jZRVGaI Then later on a juvenile Great-spotted...

Marvellous Mammal Event coming up

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 05 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

We are going mad for mammals this coming weekend at Loch of the Lowes, so why not join us? Wood Mouse Meet a Wee Mammal 9aM-11AM Saturday 9TH or Sunday 10TH August: Join the ranger to meet our smallest local mammals: mice and voles , up close and personal. We will be live trapping...

Our next Battle of Killiecrankie event is on Thursday 7th August at 2pm, hear al...

Posted by peter on Tuesday, 05 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Our next Battle of Killiecrankie event is on Thursday 7th August at 2pm, hear all about the battle itself during an interactive story in the woods, and then take the opportunity to handle the replica weapons, shown here, afterwards. Adults £4, Children £2, no booking required, just turn up.Original linkOriginal author:...

Osprey News 4th August

Posted by peter on Monday, 04 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

Lots of osprey news from Loch of the Lowes at this exciting time of year for the birds. During August there are more ospreys in the air over the UK than at any other time of year, making it a perfect time to watch and photograph them. Right now almost all...

We are running a children's bug hunt at the Hermitage tomorrow, meet at 10.30am...

Posted by peter on Sunday, 03 August 2014 in Highland Perthshire

We are running a children's bug hunt at the Hermitage tomorrow, meet at 10.30am in the lower car park, £2 per child, accompanying adults free. Bug boxes provided!Original linkOriginal author: North Perthshire Ranger Service...