RSPB Mersehead and other bird watching areas

Dumfries and Galloway is renowned for its bird watching opportunities. During each season it is possible to see a wide variety of birds in their natural habitats.

Rockcliffe and Rough Island Coastal cliffs and heathland including Motte of Mark ancient monument. Rough Island approached by tidal causeway, CAUTION do not attempt to cross when tide is rising, as the incoming sea can be very fast. Rough Island may not be visited during nesting season (May and June). Parking at Rockcliffe beside beach and in main village car park. NT for Scotland Ranger Service 01556 630262

RSPB Mersehead Reserve A very large RSPB reserve. Parking near farm. Viewing hide and Visitor Centre open all the year round. Famous for winter feeding grounds of migrating geese and other wildfowl. Contact 01387 780298 http://www.rspb.org.uk

Castle Loch The largest freshwater loch in Dumfriesshire situated in the south eastern part of Lochmaben. It is renowned world wide for the roosting Pink-footed Geese. Other important visitors are Greylag Geese and Goosanders. There are footpaths, information boards, leaflets, a ranger service and one hide at the southeast end of the loch, accessed from Lochmaben Castle (not suitable for wheelchairs). Contact D&G Council Ranger Service 01387 260184

Wigtown Bay This area of coastal wetland is located on the eastern side of the Machars, about four miles south of Newton Stewart. It is the largest Local Nature Reserve in Britain. It serves as a bird sanctuary and has a Ranger service. Contact 01988-402401 or 01988 402673 for the Ranger. http://www.dgcommunity.net/wblnr

Loch Ken - Dee Marshes Set in grassy marshland with birch, alder and blackthorn scrub beside Loch Ken reservoir in the Dee valley. Waterfowl and wading birds can be seen from the hide. Parking at Mains of Duchrae, half a mile from the hide. Free. Donations box. Dumfries and Galloway Council Ranger 01556 502351