Wildlife conservation
Some of Scotland’s most iconic species – and many more unusual ones – are at home on Scotland's national forests and land. Thanks to our efforts, they are looking forward to a more secure future. For example, we have identified particularly vulnerable species of plants and animals, and take special conservation action. This includes planning our work to cause the least disturbance to breeding birds and priority mammals.
We’re also creating and enhancing specialist habitats for a wide range of species, including lesser-known butterflies, insects, fish, amphibians and rare plants.
© Peter Cairns/2020VISION
Conservation stories
Return of the beaver
Beavers were designated as a European Protected Species in May 2019 and are making a comeback in Scotland.
Red squirrels on Arran
Our forests on the Isle of Arran are an important stronghold for a large, thriving red squirrel population.
Return of the water vole
An ambitious reintroduction programme has saved the water vole from the edge of extinction in Scotland.
Saving Scotland's wildcats
Forest management creates a mosaic of habitats that are attractive for wildcats.
Capercaillie conservation
Surprisingly, forests managed for timber production provide an excellent habitat for capercaillie. Photo © Luke Massey/2020VISION
White-tailed eagle conservation
Learn how we plan our work to protect known nest sites during the breeding season.
White-tailed eagle conservation
Goshawks and the working forest
One of our most threatened birds of prey, but our largest forests are helping them stage a remarkable recovery
Goshawks and the working forest
Helping the great crested newt
Our work is planned to ensure minimum disturbance to these rare newts, particularly in the breeding season.
Helping the great crested newt
Fishing and forestry
Prompted by the decline of many iconic wildlife species and the loss of important watery habitats, we now work in close partnership with fishery managers. Photo © Alexander Mustard/2020VISION
Butterflies and conservation grazing
Some of Scotland's butterfly species are so rare, we’ve had to bring in a secret weapon to help save them from extinction!
Butterflies and conservation grazing
Pine hoverfly conservation
One of the rarest species in Scotland, this small fly used to thrive in pinewoods across the country. Today it can only be found at one or two sites.
Protecting Scotland's juniper
Already in serious decline, juniper now faces a new threat from the deadly disease, Phytophthora austrocedrae.