‘Alien’ sightings in the Loch Ness area
People are being invited to join The Highland Council Countryside Rangers to discover more about ‘aliens’ or non native, invasive species - and the harm they cause to our wildlife.
The ‘Aliens are Coming’ event –being held on Sunday 24 May from 2pm to 4pm at Urquhart Bay Woods in Drumnadrochit - aims to introduce people to some of the better known ‘aliens’ like Rhododendron Ponticum, Signal Crayfish and Mink. and show how much harm they do and what everyone can do to help. This is a free, fun, interactive family-friendly event, suitable for families with children aged over 8 years.
Katy Martin, The Highland Council Countryside Ranger who is leading the event, said: “Non native invasive species are a huge problem for our plants and animals, but most of the time people are not aware they are here. This lovely woodland walk is awash with pretty spring flowers and the damage these non native invasive species can cause is especially clear if you know what to look for. Keith Williams of the Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust will be joining us to demonstrate the impact these alien species have on our rivers.”
The walk circuit is approximately one mile long and is on built paths and fairly flat ground. Places are free but limited and to book a place, find out the meeting place and gain more information call 01463 710786.
Another event looking at the spring flowers in all their glory will by run by the Countryside Rangers earlier in the week.
On Wednesday 20 May, people are invited to join the rangers for the Springtime Flowers of Kilmorack walk, a guided stroll around the paths and back roads of Kilmorack. The meeting up point will be at Kilmorack Old Church (grid reference NH 496 440) at 11am and the walk will last about 4hours. Anyone coming along should bring a packed lunch and dress for the weather. For more information call 01463 710786
The role of Countryside Rangers is to promote public enjoyment and appreciation of the countryside and to conserve wildlife and habitats
ENDS