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Carrifran Wildwood

Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland  >  United Kingdom

A valley in the Scottish Southern Uplands in the process of being restored to native forest after centuries of overgrazing; project began in January 2000.

Added* by Nutcracker
Most recent update 24 marts 2023

Description

One of the largest areas of habitat restoration in Britain, over 700,000 native trees and shrubs have been planted, and wildlife is returning to the previously barren overgrazed 'green desert'.

Details

Access

A remote site, unfortunately not accessible by public transport. Restricted parking at the 'P' sign; it is important to close the gate behind you after entering or leaving the site, to stop sheep from entering. On site, there is free right to roam over the entire area, but it is safest to stick to established paths; off-path it may be boggy, and the steeper slopes are dangerously craggy. A variety of paths can be taken, either staying in the lower parts of the valley, or ranging up onto the high hills at the top of the valley, a 600 m climb to the 821 m summit of White Coomb at the NE edge of the site.

Dogs are only admitted on a short lead, to minimise disturbance to wildlife, particularly nesting birds.

Terrain and Habitat

Forest , Mountain , Scattered trees and bushes , Grassland , Plateau , Valley , Moors/heathland

Conditions

Mountainous , Hilly , Rocky , Wet

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

No

Good birding season

Spring , Summer

Best time to visit

Spring , Summer

Route

Narrow trail

Difficulty walking trail

Strenuous

Accessible by

Foot

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

Extra info

The new trees are young (planted between 2000-2010) but growing well, and now up to 6-8 m tall. As the trees mature, the species present can be expected to change, with increases in woodland birds, and fewer moorland birds except at the highest altitudes.

Photo © Jim Barton, cc-by-sa license, from geograph.org.uk photo #4970079

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