Glen Prosen nesting boxes a boost to declining bird numbers

Thursday, 19 February 2026

Populations of nationally declining birds are getting a helping hand in Glen Prosen.

Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) has installed a series of nesting boxes for kestrel, barn owls and dippers, three species that have seen a decrease in population over time.   

The work to install the nest boxes is part of a Nature Restoration Fund (NRF) funded partnership project with the River South Esk Catchment Partnership in the Angus Glens.

FLS Environment Forester, Gareth Ventress, said:

“The forest and land we manage is home to and supports some of Scotland’s most iconic species along with many other important ones. That is why we manage our land with the aim of creating and enhancing specialist habitats for a wide range of species.

“In Glen Prosen we are restoring riparian woodland and creating new native woodlands. This process will take time so while these new habitats develop, the nest boxes will provide kestrels, barn owls and dippers in the area with a safe and suitable place to breed.

“More avian predators like kestrel and barn owls will help to reduce vole populations that can damage young trees at woodland creation sites.”

Kestrels and barn owls don’t build their own nests, they often rely on tree holes or tree cavities. Dippers nest close to the water using cavities in riverbanks and holes in walls or trees. So  riparian woodland, when established, will be vital in supporting these birds.

The trees will also help to shade the river, and fallen leaves will provide nutrients to support freshwater species like salmon and brown trout. Tree roots should also stabilise riverbanks when flow rates are high.

At Glen Prosen extensive surveying has provided valuable information about the glen’s wildlife, soil, water, and vegetation. This rich dataset is guiding restoration and management across Glen Prosen’s landscapes. A summary of the recent survey results can be found here:  FLS Glen Prosen: Summary of Baseline Surveys undertaken 2022 to 2025

Notes to Editors

  1. 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.
  2. Since the Scottish Government established the Farming Opportunities for New Entrants Scheme (FONE) in 2016, FLS has offered 136 farming opportunities to new entrants. In addition FLS currently manages 225 existing agriculture agreements on Scotland’s national forests and land (covering 24,751 hectares), 53 of which are held by new entrants.
  3. Home - Forestry and Land Scotland | twitter.com/ForestryLS