Print pageSeasonal highlights
Each season brings a different experience at our nature reserves. In spring, the air is filled with birdsong as they compete to establish territories and attract a mate. In summer, look out for young birds making their first venture into the outside world. Autumn brings large movements of migrating birds - some heading south to a warmer climate, others seeking refuge in the UK from the cold Arctic winter. In winter, look out for large flocks of birds gathering to feed, or flying at dusk to form large roosts to keep warm.
Spring
Arriving summer migrants (pied flycatchers, wood warblers and redstarts) and resident birds in full song. Pine martens, slow-worms and feral goats can be seen. Woodland flowers are in full bloom and the first butterflies (19 species recorded) are active in the sun. Meadow pipits, wheatears, ravens and, if you are very lucky, golden eagles can be watched on the hill. Watch out for black-throated and red-throated divers early in the morning on Loch Lomond.
Summer
Pied flycatchers feeding young in June, and family groups of tits feeding in the trees. Signs of badgers and pine martens with basking slow-worms on the trail. Insect repellant is recommended if visiting at this time of year, as the midges are now about and biting!
Autumn
Passage wildfowl and winter swans moving down Loch Lomond. Fungi in the woods. Winter thrushes on the hill and the woodland, wintering hen harriers and flocks of bullfinches including northern sub-species. Rutting feral goats and red deer roaring.
Winter
Resident birds are easy to see through the leafless trees. Feral goats with kids and also roe and red deer can be seen.