Forestry work and wildlife protection go hand in hand at Glenmore
They may be some of nature’s smallest creatures but they are having a big impact on how forestry operations are carried out in Glenmore.
Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) has successfully relocated 10 wood ant nests in the forest park in a project designed to protect an important woodland species while allowing planned forestry and civil engineering works to proceed.
The translocation project, delivered in partnership with the Cairngorms National Park Authority and supported by local volunteers, saw nests ranging from recently established colonies to larger, long-established nests carefully moved to suitable nearby habitat.
An excavator was used to carefully lift and relocate the entire nest, helping to keep the colony intact and giving it the best chance of establishing successfully in its new location. The work was undertaken ahead of planned harvesting and engineering activity to ensure the ants were protected from disturbance.
Finbarr Rose, Environment Forester with Forestry and Land Scotland, said:
“Wood ants play an important role in native woodland ecosystems and are considered a notable species within the Cairngorms. By carefully relocating the nests to suitable habitat, we were able to ensure essential forestry operations could continue while protecting these valuable colonies.”
"Protecting biodiversity is a key part of how we manage Scotland's national forests and land and demonstrates how conservation measures are considered alongside day-to-day land management activities.
“The project is also a great example of how partnership working and local volunteer support can deliver positive outcomes for nature."
Environmental considerations are integrated into FLS operational planning before work begins and demonstrates a practical approach to balancing sustainable forest management with species conservation.
Finbarr added:
“By embedding nature-friendly management in our forestry operations, we protect threatened and endangered species and habitats across all the land in our care.”
Notes to editors
- Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
- Media enquiries to media@forestryandland.gov.scot