One of the most thrilling wildlife sights in Scotland must be watching a bird
of prey soaring over the Scottish hills, and a livestock farmer in upland
Perthshire is aiming to help everyone enjoy this sight with the opening of one
of Scotland’s first red kite hides.
Since the birds’ successful re-introduction in 1996, red kites have been
regular visitors to Lerrocks Farm, near Doune in Perthshire. Keen to see these
magnificent birds thrive in the area, farmer Niall Bowser provided meat scraps
for the birds which he collected from a local game dealer. Red kites are now
seen daily on the farm. On one occasion, over 30 kites have been seen in the
area.
With over 100 species of bird recorded, Lerrocks Farm is already a wildlife
hotspot. The farm is involved in the Rural Stewardship Scheme which encourages
farm practices which are favourable to wildlife. Niall wanted to capitalise on
this with the construction of a wildlife hide. Working closely with RSPB, a hide
has been built near the feeding station which provides excellent views of the
red kites throughout the year, as well as a 360-degree view of the surrounding
area. Visitors are taken to the hide in groups via an all-ability path from the
car park, where a guide provides information about the birds and answer
questions.
The hide has recently opening and is proving popular - to be sure of getting
a place on a guided tour visitors should pre-book by phone or e-mail.
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