UK’s first NNR celebrates 70th anniversary with stunning pictures - Nature Scot
The UK’s first National Nature Reserve (NNR), the stunning Beinn Eighe NNR, is celebrating its 70th year today. To mark the day, NatureScot is revealing the winning pictures from a photo contest marking the landmark anniversary.
In 1951, Beinn Eighe was designated as the UK’s first NNR to protect its precious ancient pinewood, the largest fragment in north west Scotland. Covering a huge 48sq km, the nature reserve is home to wildlife including deer, pine martens and golden eagles. Over the 70 years since it was designated, it has received numerous accolades and designations to protect vital habitats and species.
Doug Bartholomew, Beinn Eighe’s NNR manager, said: “We’re all thankful this Highland gem was protected way back in 1951 and we are very proud this is the oldest NNR in the UK. The nature reserve is an incredibly special place to so many people – as well as a vital part of Scotland’s nature for many animals and plants. Seventy years on, we still have big plans for Beinn Eighe! For the next 70 years, our vision is for a connected, flourishing western pinewood and for the whole nature reserve to continue to support a range of healthy habitats and a rich variety of species.”
As part of the 70th anniversary celebrations, NatureScot held a photography competition to showcase the dramatic landscape, species and habitats on Beinn Eighe. The winner was Ben Catchpole of Norwich, who spent time at Beinn Eighe as a volunteer, with second place going to Rachel Drummond of Wester Ross.
Ben said of his winning image: “I took this image on a late spring evening, walking up the Allt a Chuirn path. The combination of perfect light and beautiful views make this one of my favourite photos. At this time, I was in the middle of a voluntary placement at Beinn Eighe NNR, which was a hugely influential experience in my life, helping me on my journey towards becoming a conservation professional.”
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Posted On: 22/11/2021