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Clyde

Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca ©Wikimedia Commons

The Clyde SOC Recording Area contains the unitary authorities of: North Lanarkshire, South Lanarkshire, City of Glasgow, East Renfrewshire, Renfrewshire, Inverclyde, East Dunbartonshire and West Dunbartonshire. It also encompasses parts of Stirlingshire (Clyde/Loch Lomond drainage areas, the Campsie Fells, and Argyll & Bute (former Dunbartonshire part, i.e. Loch Lomond/Clyde drainage including east side of Loch Long to Arrochar (then Loin Water as boundary).

Birding Clyde

East Dumbartonshire – has many of the suburbs of Glasgow as well as many of the city’s commuter towns and villages. The nature conservation sites in East Dunbartonshire include SSSIs and Local Nature Reserves. There are a range of public parks which include Bishopbriggs Public Park, Huntershill Playing Fields, High Park, Luggie Park, Merkland Sports Pitches and Milngavie) and local nature reserves: Merkland LNR, Lenzie Moss LNR and Kilmardinny LNR. On the north-east of Kirkintilloch lies Balmore Pool and associated wetlands. This site is excellent for a range of wildfowl, gulls and waders, particularly during spring and autumn passage.

West Dunbartonshire – lies to the west of the City of Glasgow and contains many of Glasgow’s commuter towns and villages, as well as the city’s suburbs. The area is essentially composed of three parts: the towns of Clydebank, Dumbarton and the Vale of Leven district. There are green and open places including the stunning scenery of Loch Lomond and dramatic views of the River Clyde. There are several well managed woodlands as well as the Kilpatrick Hills with its moorland, conifer forestry and numerous reservoirs to enjoy. Overtoun House has a good range of woodland birds and easy access to the western reaches of the Kilpatricks. The mouth of the River Leven and the shoreline of Havoc Park produce an excellent array of wildfowl, gulls and waders and makes for easy enjoyable birding. This is complemented by the southern section of Loch Lomond and the areas around Loch Lomond Shores, a retail area toward the confluence of the loch and the Leven host very obliging Mandarin Ducks. RSPB Loch Lomond is situated to the east of the village of Gartocharn and is subject to a fuller description below.

Glasgow – Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland, and the third largest in the United Kingdom. Nevertheless, there are open spaces, parks and gardens and even several nature reserves as Glasgow have many ‘green corridors’ into the city. Even within the Glasgow City Boundary there are good birding sites including Hogganfield Loch, Binham’s and Victoria Park Ponds which are superb for watching wildfowl, gulls and attracting scarce vagrant species. The other parks in Glasgow are good for commoner woodland birds as well as Kingfishers and Dippers on the River Kelvin Walkway, which runs through Kelvingrove Park and the Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Millichen Flood too provides excellent birding with wintering geese and passage waders. A Tree Sparrow project assists and monitors breed success and in winter, they can be found amongst the mixed finch flocks. A new site has been developed at Hamiltonhill Claypits LNR. With creativity and imagination, this conservation and community led partnership has rewilded a post-industrial site close to the city centre along the Forth and Clyde Canal and contains all the species associated with this mosaic of habitats. The large formal parks too are well worth visiting, Pollock Country Park which plays host to the world famous Burrell Collection, has an excellent range of woodland species and Linn Park too is worth a visit for similar species.

Inverclyde – The area is often considered part of ‘greater Glasgow’ but is mostly surrounded by the Firth of Clyde.  Its landward area is bordered by the Kelly, North and South Routen burns to the south-west (separating Wemyss Bay and Skelmorlie, North Ayrshire) and part of the River Gryfe and the Finlaystone Burn to the south-east. It has just two local nature reserves; Coves Reservoir and Wemyss Bay Woods, although there several SSI’s and two areas of special protection; the Inner Clyde Estuary and Renfrewshire Heights. Seawatching from Cloch Point can be profitable with skaus, auks and shearwaters being recorded. Black Guillemots, a breeding species, grebes and divers are seen from the many shoreline watch points with waders roosting at Ironotter Point. Cardwell Bay to the west of the county has produced a number of rarities and is excellent for gulls at most times of the year. The well watched hill lochs and reservoirs of Loch Thom and Gryffe produce divers, waders and wildfowl and the surrounding moors, particularly Duchal Moor have a range of upland species suited to this wind-swept environment.

North Lanarkshire – Largely made up of Glasgow’s suburbs and commuter towns, this urban county nevertheless has several local nature reserves such as Dumbreck Marsh, Dullatur Marsh, Gartcosh, Greenhead Moss, Mosswater & Cambusnethan Woods. The Kilsyth Hills provide excellent hill habitat for a range of upland species all exploiting the extensive grass moor and forestry environment. The area is also famous for, what is now, the only regular wintering flock of Bean Geese in the UK. Often roosting at Fannyside Lochs, the birds can be found feeding on surrounding fields. Neighbouring Palacerigg Country Park has an impressive range of woodland and moorland species, all seen from an easy negotiable path network. The area is famed for its water bodies and the Gadloch west of Lenzie is important for wildfowl and has also attracted a number of rarities over many years. The same can be said for Hillend Reservoir which can be excellent for passage waders when the water level is favourable. RSPB Baron’s Haugh is a standout site all year round. This popular location produces an excellent array of marsh, water, scrub and woodland species. At the time of writing, the site is undergoing major ground improvements. It is complemented by the River Clyde and Carbarns Pool. Strathclyde Loch is an excellent site for scarce passage species, wintering gulls and a roost count will invariably produce something of interest.

South Lanarkshire – offers birders a huge variety of habitats and birding opportunities. The district stretches from the urbanised and post- industrial outskirts of Glasgow, south through the rolling farmland of the Clyde Valley, to the bleak, imposing Southern Uplands. Like many other areas, South Lanarkshire suffers from the effects of growing urban sprawl, with the effect this has on wildlife and habitat. Nonetheless, it is perhaps less badly affected than some, and still offers even the casual birder excellent birding opportunities. Chatelherault and Calderglen Country Parks are both close to major urban centres, yet nonetheless are popular birding sites. The low-lying River Clyde floodplain in areas such as The Meetings, attracts thousands of wintering geese, swans and other wildfowl and passage waders. The Clyde itself offers species as diverse as Oystercatchers, Goldeneye, Kingfishers, Goosander, and Herons as it winds through both rural and urban areas. It is also always worthwhile keeping an eye skyward for birds on migration- from ospreys to waterfowl, a wide range of migrating species will pass through (or over) the area. A number of sites are now connecting to be part of the ambitious Clyde Valley Woodlands National Nature Reserve, where rivers flow through ancient gorges. The southern reservoirs and glens Culter and Camps give good opportunity for species such as Osprey, Ring Ouzel and Whinchat.

Renfrewshire – Although containing the traditional county town of Renfrew, from which its name derives, the centre of local government in Renfrewshire is found in the nearby town of Paisley, which is the area’s main settlement. It borders the south-west of Glasgow, on the south bank of the River Clyde, and so contains many of Glasgow’s commuter towns and villages. However, it also contains the Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park; the collective name for areas of countryside set aside for conservation and recreation on the South Clyde estuary. The area plays host to RSPB Lochwinnoch which is a popular reserve close the village of the Lochwinnoch. The reserve is easily reached by road and public transport. Primarily a reserve based on marshland, the neighbouring water bodies of Castle Semple and Barr Loch are of significance for breeding and wintering species. The reserve and lochs have recorded an impressive bird list with many rarities recorded. The inter tidal reaches of the Clyde have bird rich sites like Longhaugh Point, a series of flood water polls, mixed woodland and saltmarsh bordering the river. The neighbouring site of Newshot Island is also superb with extensive reedbeds, muddy creeks, saltmarsh and scrub. Adding in the confluence of the Black Cart Water and the Clyde, this all produces excellent birding.

East Renfrewshire – For a land locked council area, East Renfrewshire is a blend of urban and suburban sprawl with some real gems of birding locations. The area contains a considerable number of SSSI’s, moorland habitats and some of the most productive waterbodies in the Clyde Area. Balgray Reservoir and its associated smaller water bodies which connect into the Dams to Darnley Country Park is an exceptional site which continually produces rare and scarce birds to complement the regular wildfowl and waders exploiting the site. The area is served well for local parkland with Rouken Glen and its extensive range of habitat being the most productive.

Argyll and Bute – The Clyde Areas portion of this extensive county is perhaps the most habitat diverse, it takes in Helensburgh to the south, Rosneath Peninsula to the west, Luss and west Loch Lomond and to the north following the watershed of the Loin Water, to the top of the Ben Lui range of mountains. Ardrmore Point with associated Cardross Bay are amongst the top sites and are discussed further below. Glen Fruin is probably the first, ‘Highland’ glen most encounter with a mix of improved and unimproved pasture leading to grass moor on higher hills, Hen Harriers, Black Grouse, Barn and Long-eared Owl can be seen. Stonechat, Whinchat and Cuckoo can be seen in good numbers contrary to their national trends. Raven too in most hill habitat. The mountainous areas to the north play host to Golden Eagle, Ptarmigan and White-tailed Eagle. Around Ardlui, the wooded slopes of these hills have Common Crossbill, Lesser Redpoll and Woodcock. Almost all rivers have Dipper and Grey Wagtail whilst the woods hold Wood Warbler, Redstart and Tree Pipit. Loch Long running all the way north from Cove and Kilcreggan is a great watchpoint for Gannets throughout the summer and Manx Shearwater too later in the breeding season.

West Stirlingshire – Mugdock Country Park which incorporates a section of the famous West Highland Way is situated to the north of Milngavie. A range of woodland and heath species and just further along the West Highland Way is Craigallian Loch and its range of grebes, wildfowl, warblers and occasional Ospreys. Locally, Loch Ardinning SWT Reserve has Cuckoo and a range of moorland species including Black Grouse and the look north to the splendour of the Campsie Hills and lower reaches of the Trossachs is impressive. Inchcailloch, a wooded island on Loch Lomond accessed from Balmaha, plays host to classic oak woodland species such as Wood Warbler, Tree Pipit and Redstart. Raven nest and Ospreys can be seen fishing. Other sites too like Cashel and Ross Wood have the same selection but also attract Pied Flycatcher. RSPB Inversnaid which must be accessed via Aberfolyle has the same selection, but you may be lucky and see Golden Eagle on surrounding hills and Black Grouse on neighbouring moorland.

Top Sites

  • Ardmore Point

    InformationSatellite View
    Just off the A814 between Cardross and Helensburgh, Ardmore Point is a wooded peninsula along the north shore of the Clyde estuary, the point is flanked by the north and south bays which are subject to tide range. The point itself gives an excellent vantage point out over the water, where Red-throated, very occasionally Black and Great northern Divers can be seen most years. Slavonian Grebes have a small wintering presence and often stay on into the early summer sporting their distinctive plumage. Black Guillemot, Common Eider, Red-breasted Merganser and Gannets can be seen close in from the point. Spring and Autumn passage waders can be good here too with both Black and Bar-tailed Godwit, Little Stint, Greenshank, Dunlin and Knot being present. Both bays attract fishing Ospreys and breeding birds from Loch Lomond commute to exploit the rich resources of the Clyde. Whilst visitors are expected to stick to the circular path, a good range of common passerines can be found here throughout the spring and summer. Scarce birds such as Woodchat Shrike and Yellow-browed Warbler have been recorded. The area has developed into a SOC Study Area with support of the Clyde Ringing Group, coordinated Webs and BBS counts and all supported by conservation photography.

  • Balgray Reservoir

    Satellite View
    To the southeast of Barrhead lies Balgray Reservoir and its associated smaller lochs, which are worth checking too as often birds seen on Balgray will commute to these smaller water bodies. Long term and intensive watching of this site has produced an impressive array of species. Rarities and scare birds include Alpine Swift, Yellow-legged Gull and Lesser Scaup. When conditions are right, passage waders seen include Pectoral, Wood, Green & Curlew Sandpipers as well as Knot, Turnstone and Little Stint. Dunlin, Greenshank, Ruff and Black-tailed Godwit are annual. There are several car parking spots to view the reservoir from and a path network connecting the wider area.

  • Baron's Haugh RSPB

    WebpageSatellite View
    At the time of writing this account, the reserve is undergoing redevelopment. The site is a real gem for wildlife. Spend time in one of the four hides, looking out at the ducks and swans on the haugh, or take a walk-through Dalziel Woods – in the spring you might hear woodpeckers and Nuthatches, while in the winter Whooper Swans feed on the flooded meadows. If you’re lucky you may see a Kingfisher or an Otter on the river. In spring but particularly autumn, there is a selection of waders which include Green, Wood and Common Sandpipers, Greenshanks and Black-tailed Godwits. Baron’s Haugh is excellent for its close views of Water Rail and the nearby Clyde Walkway scrub boasts Lesser Whitethroat. The site attracts scare birds too and raptors which include Goshawk, Marsh and Hen Harrier. Carry on through the reserve to Carbarns Pool, as several rarities have been recorded at the site over the years. Given the redevelopment it would be prudent for wheelchair users and those with pushchairs to contact the reserve to plan your visit.

  • Cloch Point

    InformationSatellite View
    Cloch Point is situated just off the A770 on the west side of Gourock at the Cloch Lighthouse, it is a great place to see Manx Shearwaters (sometimes in large numbers) at close range as well as Guillemots, Razorbills, Black Guillemot, Gannet, Sandwich Terns and Kittiwakes from mid-July Through August. Skuas also turn up occasionally into early October. It is also a good cetacean watch point with Harbour Porpoise and Bottle-nosed Dolphins locally and even occasional sightings of Basking Shark, Minke and Humpback Whales.

  • Glasgow Peregrine Project

    Webpage
    A collaborative project which sees the SOC, RSPB Scotland and Glasgow University come together to organise the most dynamic views of this species in the country. Public watches are conducted throughout the breeding season and are backed by CCTV cameras that give an extraordinary view into the nest and the life of this enigmatic species. Watches are co-ordinated using social media and a dedicated web page on the SOC Clyde Branch website give full details and a history of the project. www.birdsinclyde.scot/peregrines due to go live 29th March 2024.

  • Hogganfield Park Local Nature Reserve

    InformationSatellite View
    Hogganfield Loch is situated off the A80 Cumbernauld Road (off Junction 12 of the M8) on the north-east side of Glasgow. The loch is superb in winter for wildfowl including Whooper Swan, Goosander, Goldeneye, Pochard and occasionally Smew (close viewing can be expected from most of the species present); it also has a gull roost, which regularly produces Iceland and Glaucous Gulls. The recently created pool at the east end of the park holds Jack Snipe as well as Common Snipe from late autumn through the winter. In spring both Slavonian and Black-necked Grebe have been recorded as well as the usual breeding Little and Great Crested Grebes, the park also has breeding Water Rail, Sedge Warbler and Reed Bunting as well as being a good place to watch feeding Hirundines and Swifts. Depending on water levels wader too, including Dunlin and Ruff can be seen amongst the throng of visitors. Hogganfield has been incorporated into the Seven Lochs Wetland Park and the other lochs of Frankfield, Bishop, Johnston, Garnqueen, Lochend and Woodend are all worth visiting along with neighbouring Gartloch Pool and the Gadloch near Lenzie. All of these water bodies are religiously watched and produce species such as nationally important Pochard numbers and rarities like Lesser Scaup and Ring-necked Duck.

  • Millichen Flood: including East & West Millichen Farms

    InformationSatellite View
    Millichen Flood is a favourite haunt of many as it is easily accessible on the north side of Glasgow. The neighbouring landfill attracts gulls in great numbers and can gather in the floods to bath and drink after feeding. Iceland and Glaucous Gull are regularly seen amongst the Herring, Common, Black-headed, Great Black-backed and Lesser Black-backed Gulls, which occur in varying numbers from day to day. The fields to the north along the Kelvin Walkway also attract wintering Pink-footed Geese along with Greylags and Canada Geese. Occasionally Barnacle, Greenland White-fronted Geese and Whoopers Swan are recorded amongst the large flock exploiting the rich feeding the wider area has to offer. The floods are also used in autumn (and in a lesser degree in spring) by migrating waders. Raptors also use the area in autumn/winter including Peregrine, Merlin and Sparrowhawk. The area also has breeding Lapwing, Yellowhammer and the now very scarce (in the local area at least) Tree Sparrow, a long-term study has seen the site become a stronghold.

  • RSPB Loch Lomond

    WebpageSatellite View
    The reserve boasts impressive facilities and a bird list to match. The much-improved path network winds its way through mature mixed woodland with Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Redstart, Wood Warbler, Tree Pipit and Jay amongst a supporting cast. Leading out to the Aber Bog, visitors are met with a boardwalk that traverses the extensive reed bed which has produced both Marsh and Hen Harrier sightings and the occasional Bittern over the years. Ospreys breed locally and can often be seen commuting over the reserve on their way to Loch Lomond to fish. Kingfisher, Otter and Beaver can be seen on the River Endrick that slowly winds its way through he area. The Ring Point at the north end of the reserve is arguably the most stunning location for birding in central Scotland. With Loch Lomond and its islands stretching out over the water, all framed by the Trossachs and West Lomond mountains beyond. This area attracts White-tailed Eagle throughout the year and in winter the site plays host to a nationally important flock of Greenland White-fronted Geese. The flock is supported by Pink-footed, Greylag and Canada Geese with occasional Barnacle geese and the rare Snow Goose.

  • RSPB Lochwinnoch

    WebpageSatellite View
    This long-established reserve has been a firm favourite for birders for many years. It has undergone some redevelopment and habitat enhancements in recent times and the extended boardwalk gains greater access to some of the marshland habitats to the north of the reserve, great for Sedge Warbler, Reed Bunting and the woodland sees Blackcap and Garden Warbler. However, the relatively recent addition of a wader scrape has been an unqualified success. Passage waders include spring flocks of Whimbrel and Curlew whilst breeding species such as Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Little ringed and Ringed Plovers can be seen from the visitor centre. The reserve is based on marshland, the neighbouring water bodies of Castle Semple and Barr Loch are of significance for breeding and wintering species. These too have produced a range of wildfowl which includes American Black Duck, Lesser Scaup Long-tailed Duck and Smew. Raptors include Marsh and Hen Harrier, Peregrine, Osprey and recently, Goshawk and White-tailed Eagle. The reserve is ideal for all the family, as the trails and hides and the visitor centre are all easily accessible. Whilst in the centre, you can enjoy a light snack or browse in the RSPB shop which specialises in optics, natural history books and wild bird care products.

  • Whitelees Windfarm/ Eaglesham Moor

    InformationSatellite View
    The high upland of Eaglesham Moor straddles the border between the South Lanarkshire, East Renfrewshire and East Ayrshire council administrative districts. Covering a massive area, it encompasses moorland, wetland and woodland, with a diverse range of bird and animal species co- existing with Whitelees Windfarm- the largest facility in Europe. While not a nature reserve as such, the operators of the windfarm have taken steps to mitigate the impact of their facility, at least to date. The impact of their latest expansion remains to be seen, and windfarms in general remain contentious issues for birders. The on- site Ranger service is a major plus- point for the site, however, and have been happy to answer queries regarding birding visits. As of July 2011 their site list was 95 different bird species. The car park at the windfarm offers a good starting point for a day’s birding and walking, heed the car park closing times though. Skylark are in abundance in all areas, becoming more bold farther away from the visitor centre. Meadow Pipit are also present in good numbers. Wheatear have been recorded on the vicinity of the turbines themselves.The major water bodies are recommended for waders and wildfowl, with snipe and curlew recorded. Raptors, as expected, are present, with kestrel and buzzard being the obvious ones. Less common, but still recorded, are hen harrier and peregrine. Finches have been recorded near the visitor centre and at the wooded areas on site. The forests are worth a look for visiting great grey shrike. The path system covers over 70km in total, although by no means all offers birding opportunities. If you are intrepid enough, there are, though, areas to go ‘off trail’, - care should be taken in areas of marshy ground (I was once mobbed by a pair of curlew while stranded knee deep in a marsh) The site is used extensively by walkers and cyclists, although it could not be described as crowded. In short, a more than decent site, which provides good birding in perhaps an unexpected setting.
Contributors

  • John Simpson

    | clyderecorder@the-soc.org.uk

County Recorder
Useful Reading

  • Where to Watch Birds in Scotland

    | By Mike Madders & Julia Welstead | Christopher Helm | 2002 | Paperback | 297 pages, b/w illustrations, maps | Out of Print | ISBN: 9780713656930 Buy this book from NHBS.com
Birding Aps

  • Where to Watch Birds in Scotland

    Apple iOS | Android
    This app will help beginners and experts alike to discover hundreds of the best places to see and enjoy birds around the country.

    Where to Watch Birds in Scotland, the Scottish Ornithologists' Club's free mobile app for Apple and Android devices, now has over 580 sites. New sites will continue to be added and existing ones updated as far as possible. The app launched in April 2019 and since then has been downloaded by more than 15,000 users and amassed over 750,000 site views. It won 'Product of the Year' in Birdwatch and BirdGuides' 2019 Birders' Choice Awards, and the BTO/Marsh Award for Local Ornithology 2020.
Organisations

  • Friends of Glasgow's Local Nature Reserves

    Website
    The Group was established following the Urban Biodiversity Conference held at Glasgow University on 30-31 October 2010. At the Conference, 16 people showed an interest in setting up a ‘Friends of Glasgow’s Local Nature Reserves’ and since then, others, having learned of the proposed Group, have come forward.

  • Inverclyde Birding

    Facebook Page
    I wasn't sure if there was any local bird group so I made one... it is run by me (Ben Wright) and

  • RSPB Glasgow Local Group

    Webpage
    We are Members of the RSPB based in and around Glasgow who organise talks and trips for ourselves as well as raising funds for RSPB projects.

  • RSPB Renfrewshire Local Group

    Webpage
    This is the website of the Renfrewshire Local Group. RSPB local groups are a great way to meet friendly, like-minded people in your area while learning more about birds and wildlife.

  • SOC Branch - Birds in Clyde

    Website
    Whether you are new to birdwatching, an experienced birder, or somewhere in between, the purpose of this website is to get you involved and further your enjoyment of Scotland's wonderful birdlife.

  • SWT Glasgow Branch

    Webpage
    Glasgow is a city containing a wide variety of wildlife habitats: parks, rivers, marsh and several local nature reserves. Possil Marsh, a Trust reserve, lies to the north of the city, beside the Forth-Clyde Canal.
Reserves

Abbreviations Key

  • CP Calderglen

    InformationSatellite View
    Calderglen Country Park is a country park in the Scottish town of East Kilbride. It is situated at the south-eastern edge of East Kilbride and is the town's main park. There are woodland walks through glens and gorges formed by the Rotten Calder river near to the Calderwood residential district, including the site of Calderwood Castle.

  • CP Gleniffer Braes

    WebpageSatellite View
    The wildlife of the park is typical of woodland and moorland. Birds regularly seen include skylark, meadow pipit, kestrel and sparrowhawk. The tit families feed in the treetops along with goldcrest and chaffinches.

  • CP Mugdock Country Park

    Facebook PageSatellite View
    Mugdock Country Park is situated north of East Dunbartonshire and south-west of Stirling. It comprises 270 hectares of woodland, moorland and heathland and is connected by a network of paths. It contains a loch, 2 castles, a stables complex and walled garden.

  • CP Roukenglen Park

    WebsiteSatellite View
    During a survey a total of 48 species were recorded (including species not confirmed as breeding) during the survey visits. Of the species recorded, three were red-listed Birds of Conservation Concern (BoCC) and sixteen were amber-listed BoCC. No Schedule 1 species or rare species were encountered during the survey visits.

  • CW Pappertwell

    WebpageSatellite View
    Pappertwell Community Woodland is a 77Ha woodland situated east of New Bonhill with magnificent views towards Loch Lomond and the Firth of Clyde.

  • LNR Bishop Loch

    WebpageSatellite View
    The Reserve is located in north east Glasgow on the edge of Easterhouse. It was Glasgow’s first LNR, being designated in 1995. Despite its name, the LNR boundary does not actually include Bishop Loch. The Reserve is made up of woodland, grassland and the marsh that adjoins the loch on its south western boundary.

  • LNR Braedale Hill

    WebpageSatellite View
    The 18ha site now consists of woodland, grasslands, and the Auchter Water. These habitats are home to many insects, birds and wildflowers such as common blue butterfly, northern marsh orchid and skylarks which can often be heard singing at the top of the hill.

  • LNR Brownsburn Community Park

    WebpageSatellite View
    Brownsburn Community Park LNR is an extensive area of grassland, woodland, and wetland. From an industrial past, the site is now a green oasis for local people and wildlife in urban south Airdrie.

  • LNR Cambusnethan Woodlands

    WebpageSatellite View
    The site is mostly covered in ancient and semi-natural woodland. It is split into two woodlands, Carbarns wood to the west and Highmainshead wood on the east. The hollow shell of Cambusnethan house lies between the two blocks of woodland.

  • LNR Cardowan Moss

    WebpageSatellite View
    Cardowan Moss lies immediately east of Hogganfield Park and can be accessed on foot with entrances at Avenue End Road, Mossvale Road and Darnaway Avenue in Garthamlock. Its network of footpaths take you through woodland via ponds and on to a raised bog.

  • LNR Cathkin Braes

    WebpageSatellite View
    Being 148.6 hectares in size, it is now the largest of the LNRs in the City and consists of a large woodland called Big Wood, along the northern half of the LNR, and a species rich grassland with some pockets of heath and marsh, to the south.

  • LNR Commonhead Moss

    WebpageSatellite View
    It is the largest area of degraded raised bog remaining in Glasgow. The drier edges of the bog are fringed by birch woodland and wet heath habitat.

  • LNR Coves Reservoir

    WebpageSatellite View
    The Green Gym meets once a week on a Wednesday morning at Coves Reservoir in Greenock. We carry out a variety of tasks to help improve the site for wildlife and people including managing the woodlands, planting wildflowers and bulbs, maintaining the path network, collecting litter, creating habitats and much more! We also take the time to observe what plants and animals are living at Coves Reservoir, learn about nature photography and have a good chat over a cup of tea each week!

  • LNR Dams to Darnley Country Park

    WebpageSatellite View
    The country park covers over 1350 acres of greenspace around the East Renfrewshire and Glasgow City boundary, encompassing the green belt separating Barrhead, Darnley and Newton Mearns. The country park is especially important for its wildlife. The reservoirs, all of which are Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC), are home to a range of different wild birds all year round, whilst the country park also attracts many winter visitors. A wide range of birds such as Grey Heron, Grey Wagtail, Dipper, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Spotted Flycatcher, Siskin, Lesser Redpoll, Redwing and Fieldfare can be spotted if you visit on a regular basis.

  • LNR Dawsholm Park

    WebpageSatellite View
    The Park is located approximately 3 kilometres north west of the City Centre and is bounded by the River Kelvin, an active railway line, Bearsden Road and Dalsholm Road. The Park consists mostly of woodland and is principally important for the birdlife the woodland habitat supports. The River Kelvin runs along the northern boundary and the southern boundary consists of three ‘fields’ managed for their grassland and hawthorn scrub.

  • LNR Dumbreck Marsh

    WebpageSatellite View
    The marsh is an open area of countryside, including ponds and large areas of grassland. It is an ideal place for a gentle walk or for wildlife watching. In the past it was covered with coke and coal waste and crossed with mineral railways lines. It is now home to grassland birds, including lapwing and skylarks, and the water rail.

  • LNR Durrockstock Park

    WebpageSatellite View
    Durrockstock Park -A Place For Nature In the Community. Durrockstock Park is located in Foxbar, Paisley and was designated a Local Nature Reserve in 2008 to recognise the importance it has to our Natural Heritage, It hosts an abundance of Plant and Animal Species and boasts many Facilities for all the Family to Enjoy.

  • LNR Garscadden Wood

    WebpageSatellite View
    This broadleaved woodland, with many ancient Oaks, is located in Drumchapel and may be accessed from Peel Glen Road, Drummore Road, Ladyloan Avenue and Monymusk Place. It is home to the Purple Hairstreak butterfly and a host of common woodland birds as well as Roe Deer and the Red Fox.

  • LNR Gartcosh

    WebpageSatellite View
    Gartcosh Local Nature Reserve (LNR) is an important site for protected species in the form of the great crested newt colony (the largest in Scotland). Many people visit the reserve to enjoy the wealth of wildlife and the range of habitats present which vary from the bluebell woods to the wildflower rich meadows and small ponds full of dragonflies and of course the great crested newts.

  • LNR Greenhead Moss Community Nature Park

    WebpageSatellite View
    Greenhead Moss Community Nature Park is a 100ha site consisting of many different habitats including ponds, wildflower meadows, remnant raised peat bog, old and new woodlands. These habitats are home to mammals including badger, roe deer and fox with many insects and birds present.

  • LNR Hamiltonhill Claypits

    WebpageSatellite View
    The Claypits, which is the smallest LNR in the City being around 6.7 hectares, was declared a Local Nature Reserve in May 2016 .

  • LNR Hogganfield Park

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    Hogganfield Park is located in the northeast of Glasgow, some five kilometres from Glasgow city centre. The park is bounded, to the northwest, by Cumbernauld Road (A80), to the east, by Avenue End Road (B7053) and to the south, by Lethamhill Golf Course. The main attraction of the park is Hogganfield Loch, a large shallow loch with a wooded island. Hogganfield Park is excellent for birdwatching or simply walking.

  • LNR Kilmardinny Loch

    WebpageSatellite View
    This local nature reserve is a mosaic of habitats - wet & dry woodland & grassland - as well as the deep open water of the loch and four islands.

  • LNR Kingshill

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    Kingshill is a special place for people and wildlife close to the village of Allanton. Its meadows, woodlands and ponds provide a variety of habitats where beautiful creatures live.

  • LNR Langlands Moss

    Facebook PageSatellite View
    Langlands Moss is an important and rare habitat - a lowland raised bog. Raised bogs are peatlands, the oldest of which date back to the last Ice Age. A boardwalk provides public access to the bog itself.

  • LNR Lenzie Moss

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    There is a 2km circular path which is mainly flat with a section on boardwalk across the bog. You will find signposts at several points linking to other walks.

  • LNR Linn Park

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    Linn Park was declared Glasgow’s 8th Local Nature Reserve on 4th July 2012. It is characterised by its mature semi-natural woods, mixed plantations and parkland trees, with associated wildflower meadows and amenity grasslands in an historical estate setting.

  • LNR Malls Mire

    WebpageSatellite View
    It is a small site (approx 7ha), just over half of which consists of woodland habitat, the rest being mainly neutral grassland and marsh with a small pond. The majority of the woodland habitat is a plantation of predominantly broadleaf trees, the planting having been undertaken in 1993.

  • LNR Merkland Nature Reserve

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    Merkland Local Nature Reserve, in Kirkintilloch, is a haven for wildlife and a popular spot for people looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the town.

  • LNR Mosswater

    WebpageSatellite View
    The young woodland and floodplain grassland to the north of Broadwood have been radically improved to maximise their value for local biodiversity. Larger ponds with shallow mud edges have been created for waterfowl and wader birds. Small ponds have been created as habitat for frogs and newts. Deep flooded ditches have been dug to support a water vole population. Nest boxes have been erected to attract breeding or roosting barn owl which historically inhabit this area.

  • LNR Paisley Moss

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    Paisley Moss is a hidden oasis for wildlife. A remnant of a larger site, it is now a Local Nature Reserve and contains ponds, mossy marshes, reeds and sedge beds supporting hundreds of different animals and plants. The site is maintained by careful management organised and carried out by a dedicated team of local people and airport staff. You are welcome to visit the reserve which is open to the public throughout the year.

  • LNR Ravenswood

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    Ravenswood LNR is a valuable wetland site of 17 hectares on the north side of Cumbernauld bordering the A80. It is one of the council's Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) due to its wetland flora and fauna.

  • LNR Robroyston Park

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    Much of the Park was designated as a LNR in 2006. Since then Glasgow City Council has extended the LNR on two occasions, most recently in May 2016, and the whole Park, some 43.3 hectares, is now a LNR with grasslands, wetlands and woodland. Breeding birds include Moorhen, Grasshopper Warbler and Willow Warbler. Buzzards are regularly seen and bird records for September 2017 include Kingfisher and Meadow Pipit.

  • LNR The Saltings

    WebpageSatellite View
    The Saltings is located near the Erskine Bridge and is bounded by the River Clyde and the Forth and Clyde Canal. The views down the River Clyde are stunning and Dumbarton Rock can be seen in the distance. It's an area around 19 hectares made up of of regenerated woodland and meadow. It is is noted for its wetland habitats.

  • LNR Wemyss Bay Woods

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    The Wemyss Bay woods were cleaned up and maintained in the early part of the century by Wemyss Bay Community Woodland Association.

  • NNR Clyde Valley Woodlands

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    Carved by ice and water from the surrounding gently rolling landscape, the steepness of the gorge sides here has protected the trees from felling. These ancient woodlands have clung to these gorge sides for centuries, providing a sanctuary for a wealth of wildlife….

  • NNR Loch Lomond

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    Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve (NNR) encompasses 430 hectares of land in the southeastern parts of Loch Lomond. Loch Lomond NNR supports a wide range of bird species, including Greenland white-fronted geese; greylag geese; grasshopper warbler; sedge warbler; reed bunting; redstart; spotted flycatcher; skylark; buzzards; and snipe. Ospreys are also regularly seen at the Endrick Mouth section of the Reserve.

  • Overtoun Estate

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    Overtoun Estate is at the foot of the Kilpatrick Hills and extends to some 55 hectares, the majority of which is mixed oak woodland, grazing, and landscaped gardens. The Estate is accessible to the public and is used regularly for walks and picnics.

  • RP Clyde Muirshiel

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    The Park covers an area of 108 square miles (280 km2) of Inverclyde, North Ayrshire and Renfrewshire, stretching from Greenock in the north, down the coast to Largs and West Kilbride and inland to Dalry and Lochwinnoch.

  • RSPB Baron’s Haugh

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    Baron's Haugh is an important community nature reserve in Motherwell and is a real gem for wildlife and for visitors too. Spend time in one of the four hides, looking out at the ducks and swans on the haugh, or take a walk through the woods.

  • RSPB Inversnaid

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    Set in the remote and awe-inspiring scenery of the Trossachs, Inversnaid boasts both a romantic and interesting history. It’s a very special place for nature lovers. Exploring the trails at this stunning reserve will bring you face-to-face with extraordinary wildlife, long-lost ruins and spectacular views. In the summer, pied flycatchers and redstarts breed here, along with resident birds. Buzzards nest on the crags in the wood and black grouse can sometimes be seen on the moorland…

  • RSPB Lochwinnoch

    WebpageSatellite View
    RSPB Lochwinnoch Reserve - Largs Road, Lochwinnoch, Renfrewshire PA12 4JF - Lochwinnoch RSPB Nature Reserve is situated within Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, and is one of the largest remaining wetlands in west Scotland. The reserve is ideal for all the family, as the trails and hides and the visitor centre are all easily accessible. Whilst in the centre, you can enjoy a light snack or browse in the RSPB shop which specialises in optics, natural history books and wild bird care products.

  • SWT Cathkin Marsh

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    Situated not far from Carmunnock village and the major town of East Kilbride, Cathkin Marsh is nestled unassumingly between a landfill site and agricultural land. The Marsh boasts the wide range of species you would expect, plus the ubiquitous gulls and corvids making good use of our waste. Thankfully, it lacks much of the vandalism problem that blights other Lanarkshire sites. Access is via a gate and along a hedge-rowed path. Avid listers will quickly accumulate ticks just by standing still.In Spring and Summer, expect to see warblers. Autumn brings us migrant thrushes and finches. Yellowhammer frequent the reserve, which is also good for wildfowl and waders. The fields adjacent to the path offer Skylark, and in season, massed flocks of corvids and gulls and occasional raptors. Parking is limited to a siding on the single –track road outside the reserve, or by prior arrangement with SWT, inside the gate of the reserve itself. Access is generally good, although conditions underfoot can be wet at times. Coulter’s Wood (an immature woodland with potential in terms of finches, tits, and raptors) is a mile walk away.

  • SWT Cathkin Marsh

    WebpageSatellite View
    Cathkin Marsh is a beautiful area of fen and marshy grassland. It is home to many birds, including snipe, water rail and reed bunting which can be viewed from the hide and boardwalk. Butterflies and dragonflies can be seen and there are attractive displays of wildflowers during the summer.

  • SWT Cumbernauld Glen

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    The ancient woodland of Cumbernauld Glen is a haven for wildlife and also provides an important, relaxing environment for local people. Early spring sees pockets of snowdrops appearing and summer brings a profusion of bluebells. The meadow attracts butterflies, including small pearl-bordered fritillary.

  • SWT Falls of Clyde

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    The reserve stretches along both sides of the Clyde gorge, from New Lanark to Bonnington Weir. As well as the falls, the gorge is fringed by ancient natural woodland and modern mixed plantation. Part of the Clyde and Avon Valley Landscape Partnership.

  • SWT Forest Wood

    WebpageSatellite View
    Forest Wood is on the southern edge of Cumbernauld. It consists mainly of plantation woodland, with small areas of lowland peat bog, heath and grassland. A number of flowering plants and fungi thrive, with damselflies and palmate newts dwelling in the pond. Cuckoos can be heard during springtime.

  • SWT Garrion Gil

    WebpageSatellite View
    Garrion Gill is a small ancient woodland reserve clinging to the steep sides of the Garrion Burn. The woodland canopy and underlying soils provide diverse plant habitats and cover for badgers and roe deer. Woodland birds include spotted flycatcher, sparrowhawk and woodcock.

  • SWT Glen Moss

    WebpageSatellite View
    Glen Moss has areas of marshland, woodland and wet heath with open water and sheltered, shallow pools. It is a natural haven for songbirds, waterfowl, amphibians and insects, particularly dragonflies and damselflies. Rare plants include the coral root orchid.

  • SWT Loch Ardinning

    WebpageSatellite View
    Loch Ardinning is a picturesque, visitor-friendly wildlife haven with areas of wetland, woodland, grassland and moorland. Mature willow, birch and alder thrive in the wetlands along the south west shore and reeds, rushes and sedges fringe the northern shores. Chance to spot black grouse.

  • SWT Loch Ardinning

    WebpageSatellite View
    Loch Ardinning is a picturesque, visitor-friendly wildlife haven with areas of wetland, woodland, grassland and moorland. Mature willow, birch and alder thrive in the wetlands along the south west shore and reeds, rushes and sedges fringe the northern shores.

  • SWT Loch Libo

    WebpageSatellite View
    Loch Libo is a long, shallow freshwater loch with aspen growing in the shallow waters and a hillside cloaked in mature sycamore and ash woodland. Rare plants such as cowbane, water parsnip and greater tussock-sedge grow along the shore and there are also signs of otters and water voles.

  • SWT Lower Nethan Gorge

    WebpageSatellite View
    Lower Nethan Gorge reserve is one of the best examples of semi-natural woodland still surviving in the Clyde Valley. Rich ash and elm woodland grows on the steep slopes, supporting a wide variety of plants and animals, including green woodpeckers, otters and badgers.

  • SWT Luggiebank Wood

    WebpageSatellite View
    Luggiebank Wood has grassland, scrub and riverside woodland habitats. Alder and birch cover has allowed a rich and diverse ground flora to develop where wildflowers flourish. Kingfishers and dippers can be seen diving into the meandering Luggie Water and badgers may be spotted in the woodland.

  • SWT Possil Marsh

    WebpageLoch Ardinning is a picturesque, visitor-friendly wildlife haven with areas of wetland, woodland, grassland and moorland. Mature willow, birch and alder thrive in the wetlands along the south west shore and reeds, rushes and sedges fringe the northern shores.Satellite View
    Possil Marsh has a shallow freshwater loch surrounded by marsh, swamp and fen, with areas of willow scrub and grassland. The fen and swamp areas support locally rare plants and the reserve is also an important staging post during the spring and autumn migration for warblers and waterfowl.

  • SWT Possil Marsh Wildlife Reserve

    WebpageSatellite View
    Possil Marsh has a shallow freshwater loch surrounded by marsh, swamp and fen, with areas of willow scrub and grassland. The fen and swamp areas support locally rare plants and the reserve is also an important staging post during the spring and autumn migration for warblers and waterfowl.

  • SWT Seafar Wood

    WebpageSatellite View
    Seafar Wood is a relatively young strip of woodland west of Cumbernauld Village. The woodland habitat is still developing and clusters of bluebells and other woodland flowers are already established. Areas of scrub and remnants of agricultural hedgerows provide habitats for birds.

  • SWT Upper Nethan Gorge

    WebpageSatellite View
    Upper Nethan Gorge is a gorge carved by the River Nethan. This peaceful ancient woodland supports a huge range of species, including locally uncommon plants such as broadleaved helleborine, wood melick and meadow saxifrage. Great spotted woodpeckers and buzzards are often seen.

  • WP Auchnacraig

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    Auchnacraig Woodland Park is a 44Ha woodland estate situated north of Faifley.
Sightings, News & Forums

  • Birds in Clyde Sightings

    Sightings
    There are several ways to find out about the latest sightings in the Clyde area...
Places to Stay

  • Rosslee Guest House

    Accommodation
    Rosslee Guest House is a former Victorian church manse which is now a comfortable, family run guest house situated between Glasgow and Edinburgh. The town of Airdrie is situated 12 miles from Glasgow, 35 miles from Edinburgh, 17 miles from Stirling and 14 miles from Lanark. The M8, M80 and M74 are all within 10 minutes drive of the house which makes it an ideal central location for exploring the Central Belt and the Borders of Scotland. Pam and Alan McFadzean look forward to welcoming you to Rosslee and to making your stay comfortable and enjoyable.
Other Links

  • Bird Watching sites in the Clyde Recording Area

    Facebook Page

  • Clyde Birds

    Facebook Page
    A very popular page with sightings and photographs of Clyde birds. The page is hosted by John Molloy a very experience Clyde birder.
Blogs

  • Jim Coyle - Glasgow's Wilds Better

    BLOG
    The birds and other wildlife to be found in and around Glasgow (and sometimes further afield). All photographs on this blog are copyright Jim Coyle.

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