A-Z of Secret Inverness-shire: O
Ospreys!
When ospreys returned to breed in Scotland in 1954, the ancient Caledonian pine forest around Loch Garten is where they chose to come.
The Loch Garten Osprey Centre provides fantastic facilities for viewing these magnificent creatures from April until the end of August.=
Hatches on the east side of the building open up to give you a direct view of one of the osprey nests in the area: a large tangle of twigs and stick at the top of what remains of a long-dead tree.
Telescopes and binoculars are provided. A whole wall at the Centre is dedicated to screens showing the live CCTV feeds to the nest and there’s a huge thrill in watching your very own unedited version of Springwatch.
Although the ospreys receive star billing, there’s lots more to see at this amazing reserve. Walk the many paths for the chance to see red squirrels, dragonflies and crested tits.
In April and May, you can take part in the Centre’s early morning ‘Caper-watches’ and see the spectacular display of the capercaillie, Scotland’s largest grouse.
Loch Garten Osprey Centre, Forest Lodge, Nethybridge, Inverness-shire, PH25 3EF
Open: The Osprey Centre is open daily, 10 am–6 pm from April to end of August. Last entry is 5pm. The wider Abernethy reserve is open all year
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- Loch Garten. Image Copyright Jerry Sharp
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