Wildlife in Tay Forest Park

The rich mix of tree species and landscapes across Tay Forest Park attract a wonderful variety of wildlife. From colourful ducks that nest in trees to cheeky red squirrels, red deer and rare capercaillie, Tay Forest Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

Along the water

Head for Loch Dunmore at Faskally for birds and variety of wildlife. Here you might spot kingfishers, herons and the remarkable tree-nesting goldeneye duck.

The horse of the woods

If you’re in Drummond Hill on an early spring morning you might hear an odd coughing, sneezing and drumming call. This is the male capercaillie calling for a mate. The word ‘capercaillie’ comes from Gaelic and means the ‘horse of the woods’. These rare and magnificent birds are thriving here after being reintroduced in 1837.

Birds of prey

Watch the edge of the woods to spot goshawks hunting small birds and mammals. Listen for the mewing call of buzzards circling overhead, foxes and pine martens are also after mice, shrews and voles. Pine martens are particularly elusive, though you may spot their dark spraint (poo) at Craigvinean or Grandtully.  

In search of seeds

There are plenty of red squirrels at home in the pinewoods here. Pine seeds are one of their favourite foods, so look out for well-chewed cones on the forest floor. Listen for the tiny goldcrest’s sweet song and watch for fluttering flocks of siskins and Scottish crossbills in the forest canopy. They’re all snacking on the tasty pine seeds.