Over a million visitors are estimated to have visited NatureScot’s National Nature Reserves (NNRs) in 2020, an increase from an estimated 650,000 in recent years.
The increase, initially due to lockdown, was followed by continued interest and enthusiasm across the nation for spending time in nature in this difficult year.
Winter is a wonderful time to continue that habit. There’s plenty to see on nature reserves, from swans, geese, waders, finches and other songbirds to grey seals and deer.
NatureScot Chief Executive Francesca Osowska said: "People throughout Scotland have been enjoying spending time outdoors more than ever in 2020. Nature is helping us all cope with anxiety throughout this difficult time and strengthening our resilience. I’d encourage people to get out and enjoy their local national nature reserves over the holiday season, following the latest government guidelines." Francesca has some final words of advice for those visiting nature reserves: “It’s been amazing to see so many people enjoying our reserves this year, but we’d also like to remind people to protect our reserves for future generations. For example please don’t litter or light campfires, as these can damage plants, trees and wildlife.”
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Posted On: 05/01/2021