With ice forming over the lochs in some of Scotland’s national nature reserves, Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) has issued a wide appeal to those enjoying the frozen outdoors to play safe.
Last winter a group of visitors were seen running across frozen Loch Kinord in Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve.
Reserve manager, Catriona Reid, said she is concerned some may try it again. She said: “It’s great to see people getting out to enjoy Scotland’s stunning winter landscape, and national nature reserves are magical places to visit in these conditions. Muir of Dinnet is a real winter wonderland with beautiful views of frozen lochs, snow-covered hills and Scots pine bent low under the weight of snow. However we do urge people to take responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others by respecting the wintry conditions; sticking to the paths and not walking onto frozen lochs.”
Meanwhile SNH is also asking those enjoying the outdoors to be sensitive to the plight of wildlife and birds. The frozen conditions means wild birds, particularly those species which rely on wet habitats such as ducks, geese and shore waders, will likely be struggling to find sufficient food to survive.
Dr Andy Douse, SNH senior ornithological adviser said: “The return of the severe cold weather has brought back freezing conditions to many areas of Scotland sustaining significant populations of waterfowl. These scenic locations also naturally attract many people out into the countryside for recreation. We would therefore ask people to be conscious of the birds’ ongoing survival struggle and avoid stressing them further. It might be tempting to try and get closer to the birds for a better look but scaring birds during severe weather conditions can mean the difference between life and death as they need all their energy just to keep warm.”