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[edit] Overview

Scotland's largest dune bound loch boasts a diverse range of habitats including open water, wader scrapes, reedbed, alder carr, scrubland and a small conifer plantation.

The reserve has an enviable record for turning up rarities.

[edit] Birds

[edit] Notable Species

About 20% of the world's Pink Footed Geese use the site in winter. Amongst rarer regular birds are Garganey, Bittern and Marsh Harriers Spring, Summer and Winter respectively.

The wader scrape is important for migratory wader species including Greenshanks, Ruff and Black-tailed Godwits.

Common Terns breed in good numbers, and a White-tailed Eagle (one of the released birds given the name of Ralph) can be seen.

[edit] Rarities

In 2008 Strathbeg became the first Scottish location to boast all 3 species of marsh terns (Black, White Winged Black and Whiskered) in one year. Other rarities this year have included Upland Sandpiper, Wilson's Phalarope, Temminck's Stint, White Stork, Greenish Warbler and Dotterel.

In April 2008 Strathbeg became the only site in Scotland to have had 2 Great White Egrets resident at a time.

The main highlight for 2009 so far at Strathbeg has been a Stilt Sandpiper, present for a few days in mid July.

[edit] Check-list

Birds you can see here include:

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[edit] Other Wildlife

18 species of butterfly have been recorded including the Dark Green Fritillary.

20 species of mammal have been seen and Otters use the loch.

310 species of plant have been identified on the reserve.

[edit] Site Information

[edit] History and Use

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[edit] Areas of Interest

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[edit] Access and Facilities

From A90 in the village of Crimond, take the turn beside Kirk, following the brown tourist sign to nature reserve. At the T-junction at the end of the road, turn left. After approximately 500 m, turn right at brown reserve sign onto the entrance track and follow the track to the car park.

Grid reference: NK055577

[edit] Contact Details

RSPB 01346 532017

strathbeg@rspb.org.uk

[edit] External Links

• RSPB: Loch of Strathbeg
• Wildlife Extra: Loch of Strathbeg
• Loch of Strathbeg on Streetmap