Scotland · five wildlife sites
Nature reserves & wildlife sites in Dumfriesshire
Explore these places for wildlife in Dumfriesshire. Seasonal notes suggest when to look; sightings are not guaranteed.
01 / 05
WWT Caerlaverock
Near Bankend.
- Habitat
- Solway saltmarsh, tidal pools and wet grassland meet freshwater wetlands and woodland.
- Wildlife to look for
- Barnacle goose (autumn–winter), whooper swan (autumn–winter), natterjack toad (late spring–summer nights), osprey (spring–summer).
02 / 05
Eskrigg Nature Reserve
Near Lockerbie.
- Habitat
- A freshwater pond and marsh are surrounded by woodland.
- Wildlife to look for
- Red squirrel, kingfisher, tawny owl (mainly dusk and night), mute swan.
03 / 05
Castle Loch Nature Reserve
Near Lochmaben.
- Habitat
- A shallow freshwater loch is fringed by reedbeds, marshy grassland and wet woodland.
- Wildlife to look for
- Pink-footed goose (autumn–winter), goosander (especially winter), great crested grebe (spring–summer), mute swan.
04 / 05
Grey Mare’s Tail Nature Reserve
Near Cappercleuch; Moffat is the main nearby town.
- Habitat
- Upland grassland, rocky slopes and mountain streams surround a waterfall and Loch Skeen.
- Wildlife to look for
- Peregrine falcon, ring ouzel (spring–summer), dipper, feral goat.
05 / 05
Tarras Valley Nature Reserve
Near Langholm.
- Habitat
- Heather moorland, peatland and ancient woodland surround the River Tarras.
- Wildlife to look for
- Hen harrier, golden eagle, short-eared owl, curlew (spring–summer).