Crystal clear waters, tumbling through a rock-strewn channel - a scene that is encountered throughout Scotland. But in some of these watercourses, a truly special species can be found. The Freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) is one of the most critically endangered molluscs in the world. Up to a half of the world’s remaining population are found in Scotland. As a nation, we therefore have an international responsibility … [continue reading] Protecting a very special species

Asking what the EU has ever done for the environment in Scotland – and indeed the rest of the UK – is like the scene in Monty Python’s Life of Brian, where they question: “What have the Romans ever done for us?” The answer, of course, is similarly long and impressive. Two especially important pieces of EU law that have afforded many years of critical protection for our wildlife … [continue reading] 40th Anniversary of the EU’s Birds Directive

Bats can tell us a lot about the state of the environment, as they are top predators of common nocturnal insects and are sensitive to changes in land use practices. The pressures they face - such as landscape change, agricultural intensification, development, and habitat fragmentation are also relevant to many other wildlife species, making them excellent indicators for the wider health of the UK's wildlife. … [continue reading] Bats and the fight for Scotland’s nature

What kind of country do we want to live in? What do we want our countryside to look like? What wildlife and landscapes do we want to protect so we can hand them on to future generations? These questions take on an alarming urgency in a time of unprecedented political turmoil and ecological crisis. No matter what the outcome of current political negotiations, there is a risk that Scotland’s wildlife could be under significant threat as a result. … [continue reading] The Fight Is On