A unique opportunity to witness some of the UK’s rarest wildlife
This summer the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) Scotland is inviting supporters and interested members of the public to join them for guided walks on two outstanding grey partridge recovery projects with a chance to spot this increasingly rare bird.
The events are a unique opportunity to enjoy privileged access to farmland on two exceptional estates not normally open to the public, learn the secrets of successful grey partridge conservation and witness the incredible biodiversity associated with this charismatic indicator species.
The first wild grey partridge safari takes place on 4 August at Balgonie estate in the ‘Kingdom of Fife’, close to the town of Glenrothes, in eastern Scotland. GWCT Farmland Biodiversity Advisor, Fiona Torrance, who will be guiding the walk, said: “I’m looking forward to showing visitors how this conventional arable farm has managed to turn around the fortunes of its grey partridge population. By improving habitats such as wild bird seed mixes, hedges and pollinator mixes, the farm team has managed to increase their grey partridge population by an incredible 300% over the last 12 years as well as many other red-listed birds and invertebrates. It is a fantastic showcase for what other farm businesses could achieve.”
The second walk will take place on 6th August on the famous Floors estate, seat of the Duke of Roxburghe, in the spectacular Scottish Borders. GWCT Senior Advisor Dr Felix Meister, who will be guiding the walk, said: “A few years ago, Roxburghe Estates took the decision to stop releasing reared gamebirds on the main farm and focus their conservation efforts entirely on wild species. This, combined with intensive predation control and habitat improvement in close collaboration with the farming staff, has led to a remarkable recovery of grey partridge populations as well as multitudes of other farmland birds within a short period of time. This Farm Walk offers a unique opportunity to experience what a dedicated conservation effort can achieve, both for gamebirds and for other wildlife.”
Each grey partridge safari will start at 5pm and will be followed by a barbecue lunch and drinks, which is included in the ticket price of £10.
To book, please visit the event page or call 0131 202 7670.
Photo credit: (1) Hannah Greetham (2) Amy Mason