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Our woodlands contain many of Scotland’s most threatened species. All woodland, however, isn’t the same.

In Scotland's national forests you’ll find areas of ancient native woodland (including remnants of the great Caledonian pine forest) and newly planted conifers... lush broadleaf forests and shrubby woodland at the edge of the treeline... trees at the side of rivers, and trees around towns.

Through careful management and measured intervention, we’re helping to protect these unique habitats – and even the large forests that provide the majority of our timber are home to more important plants and animals than you might think.

Conservation stories

Scots pine, loch and mountainsNative woodland in Glen Affric

Glen Affric is one of Scotland's national treasures and is home to an amazing variety of species and habitats.

Native woodland in Glen Affric

 

Pine tree and fern in Black Wood of RannochBlack Wood of Rannoch

An ancient pine forest with trees thought to be hundreds of years old, the Black Wood is home to a rich variety of plants, insects, birds and animals.

Black Wood of Rannoch

 

Trees and hills around Loch KatrineThe Great Trossachs Forest

We are working with partners to return this heavily grazed and commercially forested area to an area of outstanding natural beauty.

The Great Trossachs Forest

 

Aspen trees on a hillsideWoodland fringes

The woodland fringe is the zone of scattered trees and shrubs that once linked forests with open mountaintops.

Woodland fringes

 

Mossy woodlandScotland's rainforest

Scotland’s temperate rainforest is home to rare and fascinating mosses, liverworts, lichens, fungi and ferns.

Scotland's rainforest

 

A small river with thick woodland either sideRiparian zones

The narrow strip of trees and vegetation on the banks of Scotland's watercourses are rich in biodiversity.

Riparian zones

 

Man cutting a rhododendron bush with a chainsawRhododendron control

Don’t be fooled by its beautiful flowers... rhododendron is Scotland’s most threatening invasive non-native plant.

Rhododendron control

 

Fallen treeDeadwood

Don't be fooled by its appearance... Deadwood has huge ecological value!

Deadwood