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Threave Nature Reserve

The National Trust for Scotland managed Threave Estate provides a safe haven for many species of birds, mammals and insects. The estate covers some 1500 acres and contains a wide range of habitats, including farmland, woodland, marshes and a two mile stretch of the River Dee.

Five bird hides are situated along the River and marshes providing excellent opportunities to observe resident and migrant species. 

Wildlife highlights: Waders are common in Threave outside of the winter months, using the long tussocky grass and mud ringed pools for nesting; they include oystercatchers, lapwing, curlew, redshank and snipe.

With numerous otter holts along the River Dee and miles of drainage channels throughout the estate, spring is the time to catch a glimpse of these secretive mammals.

In summer, ospreys have been breeding here for a few years, the pair have been nesting at Threave since 2009, when a new nesting platform was installed. The nesting site for these ospreys is on the banks of the River Dee. Recently installed hides provide excellent real-life views of the birds. Willow and grasshopper warblers can also be seen.

Red kites appear over Threave as local farmers cut their silage around the wildfowl reserve. Also a good time to see flocks of redwing, fieldfare, and, sporadically, waxwings.

In winter the wetlands echo to sounds of pink footed, greylag and occasionally a flock of the elusive Greenland White fronted geese from October onwards. As water levels rise on the River Dee, flooding surrounding grassland, whooper swans, widgeon, teal and pintail all appear.

Marsh and hen harrier, buzzard, peregrine falcon, sparrowhawk, kestrel and most recently goshawk all favour the rich pickings to be found on the marshes throughout winter months.

Bats: Threave Estate was designated as Scotland's first Bat Reserve in 2010 with seven species recorded. For those wishing to find out more about these fascinating nocturnal mammals, why not follow two of the specially selected bat trails around Threave Gardens and Kelton Mains. Bat detectors are available to hire from Threave Gardens visitor centre.

Location: Threave is just off the A75 west of Castle Douglas.

These maps are intended as a guideline only; you must check the exact location of the reserve yourself. Wildlife Extra assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or usefulness of the information on this website.