Wildlife in Glen Prosen
Learn more about our local wildlife
You’ll find an abundance of wildlife in Glen Prosen. The glen abounds in birds and animals, and plants now rare in the rest of the country. Having moorland, pasture, rivers, conifer and deciduous woods, all in close proximity, and being farmed un-intensively, it provides an amazing variety of habitats for our native wildlife.
Red Squirrels
Red squirrels are one of Scotland’s most iconic and beloved native species. Once widespread across the country, their numbers have dramatically declined, with only around 220,000 remaining today.
Their greatest threat comes from the invasive grey squirrel, a non-native species introduced from North America in Victorian times. Grey squirrels outcompete reds for food and space and can carry Squirrelpox — a deadly virus to which red squirrels have no immunity. Infected areas can lose red squirrels up to twenty times faster than through competition alone.
Habitat loss and fragmentation have also played a major role in their decline, with small, isolated woodlands unable to support sustainable populations.
Glen Prosen is home to many red squirrels – so keep you eyes and ears open, you will likely spot a few!
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Red Deer
Prosen is home to this iconic Scottish deer. Large herds roam the hills in Prosen and if you visit during the rut, you will hear them roaring across the glen.
Roe Deer
Drawn to the mixed woodlands in Prosen, you may be lucky enough to bump in to roe deer as you take a quiet hike through the low ground.
Wildcat
Although wildcats can often be elusive, they are spotted by locals on quiet wooded road edges and in the forestry blocks in the glen.
Pine Martin
While you are more likely to find evidence of pine martins such as scat and remains of meals, they have made their home in the thick forestry blocks.
Black Grouse
Black grouse at their most flamboyant and noticeable during the lek. Their rookooing and hissing calls carry across the moorland.
Golden Eagle
Nearby nesting pairs in Glen Clova can be spotted in Prosen as they travel over their territory. If it looks like a flying barn door then it's an eagle!
Buzzard
Common buzzards are often spotted on the soar above hills and woodland in the glen. Listen out for their distinctive call. They are commonly mistaken for eagles but are only about a third of the size of one!
Red Kite
These graceful birds of prey are easily recognised by their reddish-brown body, forked tail and elegant flight. Red kites play an important role in the ecosystem by scavenging carrion.
Raven
These supremely intelligent corvids can be spotted on the hills and forest edges. Their deep "cronks" will alert you to their presence. Look out for their wedge shaped tails and aerial acrobatics.
Oystercatcher
Striking black and white wading birds commonly found along Scotland’s coastlines, estuaries and inland fields. With their bold colouring, bright orange bill, and loud piping call, they’re easy to spot and hear.
Curlew
One of Scotland’s most distinctive wading birds, recognised by their long, down-curved bill and haunting, bubbling call. They breed in upland moorlands and grasslands.
Lapwing
Charismatic birds known for their striking black and white plumage and distinctive crested head. Often seen in farmland and wet grasslands, they perform dramatic aerial displays accompanied by their unique "pee-wit" call.
