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We have a vision to double the size of the largest remaining remnant of caledonian pine forest in Scotland. Based at Abernethy National Nature Reserve this project will involve boosting the 'seed bank' of native tree species to improve vital habitat for rare species such as capercaillie and wildcat

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Categories

  • Animals Animals
  • Education/Training/Employment Education/​Training/​Employment
  • Environment/Conservation Environment/​Conservation
  • Beneficiaries

    Situation

    Caledonian pine forest is one of the rarest habitats in Europe, with only 1% remaining of its former Scottish range. Habitat loss has largely resulted from intensifed land use pressures, leading to the decline of many dependent species such as black grouse, red squirrel, and the highly endangered capercaillie. Unless conservation action can be taken, these dependent species are likely to vanish alongside an ancient landscape.

    Solution

    Through a programme of seed gathering, seed planting and habitat enrichment, this project will help give nature a gentle nudge. Left alone, the forest would take hundreds of years to naturally expand out to its original 'treeline' perimeter. By then, it is likely many declining species will be extinct. By gathering seeds of local provenance and improving existing woodland habitat, we can accelerate this natural process and help safeguard a future for some of Scotland's most iconic wildlife.

    100%
    Categories

  • Animals Animals
  • Education/Training/Employment Education/​Training/​Employment
  • Environment/Conservation Environment/​Conservation
  • Beneficiaries