Habitat & Species
The majority of the catchment area is characterised by rough moor land and blanket bog and is home to a variety of rare birds and plant species.
The area is home to Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos), which can be frequently observed; White Tailed or Sea Eagles (Haliacetus albicilla) are also breeding residents of the area.
During the summer months, a day's fishing is enlivened by the presence of Red Throated Divers (Gavia stellata) and Black Throated Divers (Gavia artica) on the lochs and these can be seen travelling between the sea and freshwater.
The Outer Hebrides remain a stronghold for Otters (Lutra lutra) and these are frequently observed although most usually by early morning anglers on the lower river.
.jpg)
There has been little change in land use with grazing pressure remaining much the same. There are indications that whilst sheep numbers have decreased there has been an increase in the Red deer (Cervus elaphus) population and there is localised evidence of over grazing.
MINK
American Mink (Mustela vison) are non-native and pose a particular threat to juvenile salmonids and ground nesting wild birds.
Scottish Natural Heritage established the Hebridean Mink Project with the aim of eradicating mink from the Outer Hebrides.
Images on this page ©Frank Stark and ©Louise Scott
