New scheme offers a helping hand for glen’s declining bird species
Populations of nationally declining birds are being given a helping hand in an Angus glen through a new initiative introduced by Forestry Land Scotland (FLS).
The agency has installed a series of nesting boxes in Glen Prosen for kestrel, barn owls and dippers - three species that have seen a decrease in populations over time.
The work is part of a Nature Restoration Fund (NRF) funded partnership project between FLS and the River South Esk Catchment Partnership in the Angus Glens.
Gareth Ventress, FLS environment forester, said the project will help to tide the target species over while restored natural habitat matures.
He said: “The forest and land we manage is home to and supports some of Scotland’s most iconic species along with many other important ones.
"That is why we manage our land with the aim of creating and enhancing specialist habitats for a wide range of species.
“In Glen Prosen we are restoring riparian woodland and creating new native woodlands. This process will take time so while these new habitats develop, the nest boxes will provide kestrels, barn owls and dippers in the area with a safe and suitable place to breed.
“More avian predators like kestrel and barn owls will help to reduce vole populations that can damage young trees at woodland creation sites.”
Kestrels and barn owls do not build their own nests, often relying on tree holes or tree cavities. Dippers nest close to the water using cavities in riverbanks and holes in walls or trees. So riverside woodland will be vital in supporting these birds.
The trees will also help to shade the river, and fallen leaves will provide nutrients to support freshwater species such as salmon and brown trout. Tree roots should also stabilise riverbanks when flow rates are high.
At Glen Prosen,extensive surveying has provided valuable information about the glen’s wildlife, soil, water, and vegetation.
This rich dataset is guiding restoration and management across Glen Prosen’s landscapes.
A summary of the recent survey results can be found here at FLS Glen Prosen: Summary of Baseline Surveys undertaken 2022 to 2025.