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andslides at the Table, Quirang,Trotternish ridge,Isle of Skye. ©Lorne Gill/SNH

Landscapes and habitats

https://www.nature.scot/landscapes-and-habitats

Scotland’s rich and varied landscapes and habitats have been shaped by underlying rocks, soils and landforms, our seas and the Scottish weather.

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In this section

  • A hillwalker enjoying the view over Loch Maree at Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve ©Lorne Gill/SNH. For information on reproduction rights contact the Scottish Natural Heritage Image Library on Tel. 01738 444177 or www.nature.scot

    About Scotland's landscapes

    Discover how our species, habitats and land management combine with an astounding complexity of geology, landforms and soils.

  • Machair flowers, Barvas, Isle of Lewis ©Lorne Gill/SNHFor information on reproduction rights contact the Scottish Natural Heritage Image Library on Tel. 01738 444177 or www.nature.scot

    Habitat types

    Scotland has a wide array of habitats – from hedgerows and field margins to coastal cliffs – and each supports a particular range of plants and animals.

  • Marram grass growing in the embryonic sand dunes at Machir Bay, Traigh Mhachir, Islay ©Lorne Gill/SNH.For information on reproduction rights contact the Scottish Natural Heritage Image Library on Tel. 01738 444177 or www.nature.scot

    Habitat Data (and the Habitat Map of Scotland)

    We have assembled a wealth of habitat data for Scotland which you can explore on the following pages.

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News and Blogs

A coastal landscape of the Isle of May captured from an elevated perspective looking down at the sea and cliffs. On the left dark-rugged  asalt rock columns and cliffs meet the deep blue ocean with white surf crashing against the base. A small pebble beach or rocky shoreline is visible near the cliffs, blending into green moss or algae. The top half of the cliff face is covered in a vibrant green grassy plateau that extends in the distance. In the far background, a faint structure resembling a lighthouse.

Jewel of the Forth celebrations

The Isle of May is celebrating a huge milestone this month, marking 70 years as a National Nature Reserve (NNR)

News - 30 June
Marram grass growing on the sand dunes at Tentsmuir NNR.

Tentsmuir NNR holiday fun

Come and join us at our open day with a host of fun activities for all ages.

Event - 14 July
News release

Agreement for better nature and more secure food in Scotland

Strengthening the link between nature and sustainable farming in Scotland.

News - 19 June
Interpreting Ayrshire's Coast web page

A guided walk at Forvie NNR

Join us to find out which plants they used before supermarkets and pharmacies and try some wild foods.

Event - 15 July
Roe deer (Capreolus capreolus)

New funds for venison supply chain

The third round of the Low Ground Venison Supply Chain Project was launched today (18 June) at the Royal Highland Show at Ingliston.

News - 18 June

The big butterfly count at Forvie NNR

Join in the biggest butterfly survey in the world and help take the pulse of nature. 

Event - 17 July

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