There’s a very high risk of wildfire in south west and east Scotland from 28 March to 1 June 2026. Please pay attention to local guidance and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

Wildlife

You don’t have to travel far to enjoy nature. Visit any of our woodlands and you’ll soon see or hear life amongst the trees, be it insect, bird or mammal.

There is a wealth of wildlife to see in and around our forests. You can find soaring sea eagles, beach-bathing seals, scampering squirrels and busy beavers.

We’re working to create and enhance specialist habitats for a range of species. This includes planning to cause less disturbance to breeding birds and priority mammals. We’re working to create and enhance specialist habitats for a range of species, including lesser-known butterflies, insects, fish, and amphibians. This includes planning our forestry work in a way that causes the least disturbance to breeding birds and priority mammals. 

Don't forget to pack binoculars

Species in our forests

Learn more about the species found in our forests and where to find them.

Wildlife: how to see them

Wildlife hides

You’ll find  specially designed nature hides at some of our destinations. These are perfect for getting the best view of the local animals. Inside you'll also find information panels to help you make the most of your time in the woods.

Find our wildlife hides across the country

A wooden wildlife hide next to the shore with trees behind.
Glentress

Wildlife Hub

The Wildlife Hub at Glentress is home to:

  • the Tweed Valley Osprey Project
  • a beehive that is active in the summer
  • a range of wildlife activities

You'll find knowledgeable volunteers on site during osprey nesting season from April to September.

It’s a wonderful place to start your visit to Glentress, learn about the animals in the area and watch one of our live osprey nest cameras. 

Learn more about visiting Glentress

A pond in summer with a forest behind it reflecting on the water
Galloway

Deer and goat encounters

In Galloway Forest Park, you'll find interactive sites that give you an opportunity to see red deer and wild goats up close.  

The aptly named Red Deer Range and Wild Goat Park both have viewing areas, making them great places to learn about these charismatic animals.

Learn more about all the Galloway Forest Park has to offer

A wildlife hide with fencing and deer
Barnluasgan

Beaver information centre

Beavers returned to Knapdale as part of the UK's first ever wild mammal reintroduction. They adapted quickly to their new home, creating a wetland habitat unlike any other in Scotland. 

Start your visit at the unstaffed information centre before heading out to one of our many trails in the area. 

While you're only like to spot beavers at dawn or dusk you can see their handiwork at any time of day. These can include dams, lodges and gnawed trees.

Find out more about the beaver centre at Barnluasgan

An accessible ramp up towards a log cabin in the trees
Devilla

Dragonfly hotspots

Designated as a hotspot by the British Dragonfly Society, Devilla is the perfect spot to catch a glimpse of dragonflies and damselflies.

With signs showing the species to look out for, it’s a great place to spend the day. 

Plan your next visit to Devilla

Man in black t shirt with blue flask beside him, sits on grass edge of Bordie Loch, Devilla Forest, near Kincardine
The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre

Livestreams and nature activities

Watch and learn all about wildlife at the Lodge. Visit the easy-to-reach Red Squirrel Hide or watch the live video feed from the wildlife room. As well as squirrels, you can watch a livestream of the on-site bird feeder and footage of local birds of prey. 

The Lodge also has nature-themed activities and bug bags to rent. These contain binoculars, a pond dipping jar, compass, identification booklet and a map.

Learn more about what the Lodge has to offer

An aerial shot of a building through trees with hills behind

Wildlife conservation

Learn more about how we're helping these animals.

Wildlife conservation