Scotland's Trends

Biodiversity is being lost at a rapid and increasing rate globally. It’s important that we know what changes are taking place in Scotland.

To monitor our changing environment, we’ve adopted a consistent approach based on targets and indicators. We also collate information on trends that show how Scotland’s wildlife and special places are changing over time. Monitoring trends in people’s attitudes to the environment is just as important.

We continually update and add to the information we hold on Scotland’s trends. Any new publications will be made available via this page.

Trend notes

Trend notes are a great starting point to begin exploring a topic. They’re written in a clear and accessible style, and can direct you to more detailed information if you would like to find out more.

We continually review and develop our trend notes, which cover a wide range of topics.

Freshwater - Ponds - 2002

Scotland's Trends and indicators

Trend Notes - Climate Change and Rivers - February 2011

Scotland's Trends and indicators

Trend Notes - Scottish Moths - June 2011

Scotland's Trends and indicators

Breeding Farmland Birds (Oct 2013), Seabirds in Scotland (Oct 2012)

Scotland's Trends and indicators

Trend Notes - Bats in Scotland - Oct 2015

Scotland's Trends and indicators

Trends of Otters in Scotland - 2015

Scotland's Trends and indicators

Scotland’s wildlife: An assessment of biodiversity in 2010 Natural Heritage Trends: The Seas Around Scotland 2004 Natural Heritage Trends: Scotland

Scotland's Trends and indicators

A summary of land cover change in Scotland from 1947 - 1988 and changes to Land cover from 1940s - 1980s

Scotland's Trends and indicators

News and stories

People are advised to be aware of the risk of fire when enjoying the great outdoors this Easter.

News - 17 April

A variety of events are taking place at Scotland's NNRs. Find out what's on at a NNR near you.

Events - 19/20 April

Scotland’s Natural Capital Asset Index (NCAI) assesses the quality and quantity of our land-based habitats and their contributions to human wellbeing.

News - 9 April