The first half of this year has been nothing short of extraordinary here in Knapdale, with nature truly putting on a show. At the Argyll Beaver Centre, we’ve been hard at work monitoring, documenting, and sharing the magic of our thriving local wildlife.
From mammals and birds to insects, plants, lichens, fungi, and more, our corner of Argyll has been bursting with biodiversity. Here are just a few highlights from this remarkable season:
A Kingfisher First: For the first time in Argyll since 2016, we spotted a breeding pair of kingfishers, and their fledgling, nesting in one of our largest beaver wetlands. A rare and encouraging sight.
Red Squirrels Galore: The Centre has been bustling with red squirrel activity. They’ve taken quite a liking to our hazelnuts and shelled peanuts. And they’re not alone, one cheeky young pine marten has discovered our squirrel box and now makes regular visits to help himself.
Rarities: While surveying beaver activity at Loch Coille-Bharr, we were thrilled to spot red-throated divers gracing the water, an elegant and exciting find.
Wildlife Cameras: Our trail cameras, set up at various beaver dams and lodges, have captured a stunning variety of species. Among them: badgers, foxes, otters, the elusive water shrew, and of course, the beavers themselves. It’s now the time of year when the kits are starting to emerge from their lodges, and we’ve been lucky enough to capture their very first moments outside on camera. Watching them take their first steps into the wider world has been truly special!
Events: Our guided walks and wildlife events have been a huge hit this year. At our Seashore Safaris, we’ve uncovered all kinds of marine treasures, the most interesting being the sea hare and its pink defensive ink, and a beautifully blue lobster. Our guided Beaver Walks also continue to go well, with plenty of sightings and activity.
Thank You!
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Vegware for their generous support. Their commitment to sustainability and the environment echoes our own mission here at the Argyll Beaver Centre.
