Local biodiversity
Surrounded by (ancient) woodlands, lochs, moorland, species-rich grasslands and peat bogs, there is so much to explore in and around our villages. Several footpaths and cycle routes allow residents and visitors to enjoy the tranquillity of the rural landscape. The local streams, burns and lochs are biodiversity hotspots and are used for wild swimming, but are also home to our local otter population and, if you are lucky, you can spot a blue flash from a kingfisher and observe the dippers hunting underwater for insects. Have you seen the red squirrels which have recently returned to the village?
Campsie Fells, full of life
The Campsie Fells north of Strathblane and Blanefield can be seen from afar and provide a spectacular backdrop of our village. The Campsie Fells come to life in spring and in the distance you can hear the skylark and meadow pipit make a fuss, especially when the Peregrine falcon flies by. Zooming in, you’ll find that the Campsie Fells slopes offer a mosaic of habitats, buzzing with life.
But. . . did you know that the grassland slopes of the Campsie Fells are of international importance for the conservation of rare and threatened species?
The Campsie Fells not only support spectacular biodiversity, but they also provide many services to our communities. The access to the hills supports our active lifestyle and allows us to connect with nature and boost mental health. The uphill blanket peat bog, moorland and grasslands are important for carbon storage and act as a giant water buffer which allows us to cope with extreme weather events.