Loch of the LowesLoch of the Lowes is the biggest of the Stormont lochs and is best known as one of the few Scottish breeding grounds of the osprey.By the early 1900's these magnificent birds had ceased altogether to breed in this country. In the late 1950's they attempted to breed near Inverness and later chose to settle at the Loch of the Lowes only weeks after the nature reserve had been established. Here, beside a shallow loch with a plentiful supply of fish and surrounded by tall trees, they started to visit each year from warmer climates in the south. Loch of the Lowes covers 98 hectares and from early April to late August the star attraction is a pair of breeding ospreys. The UK's oldest breeding osprey - known affectionately as 'Lady of the Loch' - laid her 60th egg on 16 April 2011. Unfortunately, none of this season's eggs hatched; however, tests have shown that they were fertile, meaning that there is still a chance she will return next year to raise her 50th chick. You can catch all the action live via the Lowes webcam.Their nest is situated within 150 metres of a Scottish Wildlife Trust observation hide, allowing osprey family life to be observed through binoculars, telescopes and closed-circuit television (CCTV)Lady, as she has become known, is a remarkable 25-year-old bird (Ospreys usually live on average for just 8 years), that has raised 48 chicks to date. As a nature reserve there are many other attractions throughout the year. Apart from the ospreys, red squirrels are still present here, and great spotted woodpeckers can be seen from the viewing windows, while fallow and roe deer are often seen from the hide. The wildfowl population peaks in early winter when as many as three thousand greylag geese roost on the loch as well as goldeneye, mallard, goosander, wigeon, teal, tufted duck and great-crested grebes.
How to get there Access Info The reserve is situated 16 miles/25.6 kms north of Perth and 2 miles/3.2 kms north-east of Dunkeld just off the A923 Dunkeld to Blairgowrie road (signposted from the A9). The start point is Dunkeld Tourist Information Centre, where you can purchase a map leaflet for the Dunkeld Footpath Network (50p), which includes Fungarth walk. Additional Info Parts of the walk are quite steep (especially Brae Street). After periods of rain, the stretch along the golf course can be wet under foot so take care. Dog owners should note that only guide dogs are permitted at the visitor centre. The nearest town is Dunkeld. From the Tourist Information Centre, go back to the main Street and cross over and walk up the steep Brae Street. After approximately ½ mile, turn left onto a farm track that follows the edge of Craige Wood on your left. Predominantly oak, this woodland is a haven for birds and is particularly spectacular when the floor is carpeted with bluebells. Follow the waymarkers for Fungarth walk and to Loch of the Lowes. Keep the golf course to your left. From here, ahead there are good views of Loch of the Lowes and of the surrounding hills.When you reach the loch, turn left and for the last ¼ mile follow the usually quiet country road to the car park for the Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre. During the walk keep an eye on the sky. If you are lucky, you may see the male osprey bring a fish from the River Tay to the nest at Loch of the Lowes, following almost the same route as you. Information Summary
Lastupdated 11/10/2011 Visitor information The Visitor Centre and Crannog is open all-year-round, from 10 am to 5 pm. It is closed on 25 and 26 December, as well as 1 and 2 January. Ticket prices are as follows: Adults - £4.00
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Loch of the Lowes Red Squirrel
Osprey at the nest
The illusive Pine Marten