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RSPB Loch Leven

Scotland  >  United Kingdom

RSPB official reserve: great for wintering wildfowl, geese, etc.

Added* by Robert Malcolm Kay
Most recent update 20 March 2020

Description

Set on the southern shore of the loch, this nature reserve is good for birding. Osprey visit the loch to fish during the summer, while up to 20,000 Pink-footed Goose fly in from Iceland come autumn. Beautiful area with excellent facilities: cafe, shop, hides: and some lovely nearby walks.

Details

Access

The reserve is halfway between Perth and Edinburgh. From Junction 5 of the M90, follow signs for the B9097 towards Glenrothes. Once on the B9097, drive for approximately two miles before turning right into the reserve which is signposted. Parking also well-signposted.

Terrain and Habitat

Wetland , Forest , Scattered trees and bushes , Mountain , River , Lake , Reedbeds

Conditions

Flat , Hilly

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Winter

Route

Unpaved road

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot

Birdwatching hide / platform

Yes

Extra info

In Spring the reserve becomes a departure lounge for migratory geese and swans as they head back home to their northern breeding grounds. The departing geese make way for one of Loch Leven's most visible arrivals - Barn Swallow and Osprey. A regular winter visitor is White-tailed Eagle.

The visitor centre is open from 10am - 5pm daily (open until 4pm from Christmas Eve until New Year). Closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day and 2 January.

Trails and hides open 24 hrs a day throughout the year. Café open 10 to 4 (lunch service until 3).

Links

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

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