Centre will show wildlife in close-up
A new pond-dipping area will allow visitors to get a closer look at wildlife at RSPB Scotland’s Loch Lomond reserve.
Work on the facility got underway earlier this month despite heavy snow.
The pond-dipping area at the reserve near Gartocharn is aimed at helping families get a better view of insects, plants and frogs.
The project includes an area of decking and a shelter with information about the creatures which might be found there.
Site manager Paula Baker said: “Our new pond-dipping area will be a fantastic addition to the site and a great place for events.
“It’s easily accessible by path from our car park, making it a handy place for families to visit, and there will be plenty of exciting discoveries ready to be made by people of all ages.
“It’s been really impressive to watch the guys from BLC Ltd and WWT Consulting put it all together, in spite of the terrible conditions.
“As someone who works outdoors a lot I really take my hat off to them.”
The new facilities have been funded by the Scottishpower Foundation, which also supported the building of new paths at RSPB Scotland Loch Lomond last year.
Foundation trustee Ann McKechin said: “We’ve been supporting the work of RSPB Scotland since 2014 and this new multi-use visitor structure at Loch Lomond will transform access for visitors, including many children, and help them to get even closer to Scotland’s wildlife.
“The RSPB’s dedication to inspiring a new generation to protect our natural world echoes the foundation’s commitment to the advancement of environmental protection.
“It is a shining example of how we can ensure young people can learn about protecting our planet for future generations.”
The pond-dipping area is scheduled to open on May 7.