THREAVE NTS
Mixed habitats which will benefit from rewilding
The National Trust for Scotland have a large estate here, which includes the famous gardens, but the big news is that part of the estate is moving into rewilding, with fences removed, scrapes dug and footpaths improved – the birds will benefit.
WHERE TO WATCH 1
A mixture of habitats offer you good birding, with mixed trees and grassland when you arrive off the A75. Look out for Meadow Pipit, Pied Wagtail, Jackdaw and
Rook to start with. Walk past the visitor centre, with great views to the River Dee and surrounding countryside.
2
Melkie Wood offers you Nuthatch, Great Spotted Woodpecker and Treecreeper, with two hides situated looking over the wetlands. New work here has seen more river water enter the rush beds, offering a wider number of duck and geese species. With high water in winter, I had Whooper Swans, Pintail, Shoveler, Wigeon and Teal. Look out for Hen Harrier in winter and Marsh Harrier in summer hunting the area.
3
Threave Island is now famous for two species. The first is the Osprey, which has nested here for a number of years. The birds know you cannot get close to their platform and offer great views from the hides, as well as a special screen by the river. Check the other raptors here for Buzzard, Red Kite and Goshawk.
4
The second species is now the Peregrine, which nests on the castle built by Archibald the Grim. I wonder if he would be less grim knowing this bird was using his castle? The Peregrines removed a pair of Ravens to take the top seat! Check the river for Goldeneye, Little Grebe and Grey Heron.
5
Another hide is found looking down-river, but in good weather a path on to high ground now gives you superb views over the river, islands and farmland, with geese a major find in winter. Pink-footed can be found here with Greenland White-fronted Geese often coming down from Loch Ken. Wigeon can often be found grazing close to the river. A Blue-winged Teal was found down-river, often feeding with other Teal. Evening visits may well add Barn Owl to your list, along with Woodcock.