tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87088513395738210682024-02-07T13:39:15.120+00:00Galloway Forest ParkInformation and news from around Galloway Forest Park, ScotlandYogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.comBlogger132125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-2822533428103045382012-05-16T11:18:00.000+01:002012-05-16T11:18:12.748+01:00Businesses wanted to boost Galloway’s forest tourism<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLrkT4q_orbVdrYL_93vo6bM2Tkk9y5HWc3YT-BDXeMwIR-jCoWMhxUL-38phN568K6UTKUc2TONAp0XWKeyoCnL9LHwPm5v1uyc-6TWQ6uX193U2XLbRuFG-mI9yLF0E6lvwzFamCj34/s1600/kirroughtreeimage3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="112" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLrkT4q_orbVdrYL_93vo6bM2Tkk9y5HWc3YT-BDXeMwIR-jCoWMhxUL-38phN568K6UTKUc2TONAp0XWKeyoCnL9LHwPm5v1uyc-6TWQ6uX193U2XLbRuFG-mI9yLF0E6lvwzFamCj34/s320/kirroughtreeimage3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Artists Impression of the new <br />
Kirroughtree Visitor Centre</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Forestry Commission Scotland is looking for dynamic entrepreneurs to help run the new £4.5 million visitor services planned for <strong>Galloway Forest Park.</strong><br />Expressions of interest are being sought to help manage the new tourism facilities which include a new visitor complex at Kirroughtree, a totally modernised centre at Clatteringshaws and an upgraded centre at Glentrool.<br /><br />The whole multi-million investment is part of the Commission’s plan to grow the tourism market in the region. The new and refurbished visitor centres are all due to be up and running by the end of <strong>2013</strong>.<br /><br />The drive to pull in more visitors comes on the back of major tourism projects spearheaded by Forestry Commission Scotland, including the 7stanes mountain bike initiative and Dark Sky Park status.<br /><br />Keith Muir, Forestry Commission Scotland’s tourism manager for Galloway said:<br /><br /><strong>"A few years ago we recorded about 800,000 visitors were coming to Galloway Forest Park. Since then, the 7stanes biking project, new walking trails and the award of Dark Sky Park status have all boosted numbers. We are currently welcoming over one million visitors a year, making it a key visitor destination which has real potential for business development.<br /><br />We are very excited about the new investment plans coming to fruition as we have been working on them in the background for a number of years. <br /><br />We are looking for enthusiastic, dynamic businesses with a good understanding of tourism to join with us and really grow this market in Galloway Forest Park.<br /><br />There are great opportunities here for local businesses and the wider tourism sector and I recommend all of them get in touch to find out more."</strong><br /><br />Galloway Forest Park was established in 1947 and is the UK’s largest Forest Park at over 97,000 hectares the equivalent to over 300 square miles. The area is ideally placed for more growth and there is a yet fully untapped market in the North of England, the central belt of Scotland and in Ireland.<br /><br />Businesses wishing to express an interest and find out more details of the business opportunities on offer should log on to <a href="http://www.forestry.gov.uk/gallowaycommercial">http://www.forestry.gov.uk/gallowaycommercial</a> . All interested parties should register an interest by midday on <strong>18th June 2012</strong>.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Galloway Forest Park, Newton Stewart, Schottland, UK55.1236595 -4.424249254.833115 -5.0559632 55.414204000000005 -3.7925352tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-26240418754363958272012-02-19T16:50:00.003+00:002012-02-19T16:55:12.853+00:00Walking trailsWe are coming to the end of a massive investment in the walking trails at Glentrool and Kirroughtree. Four paths in total have had a complete makeover allowing a far broader range of users to enjoy the area. The trails will be completed by the end of March and then it will be time to start opening up the forests and views along the routes. Please let us know your thoughts on the new trails. Please remember theses trails are designed for walkers not mountainbikers or horses so be a responsible forest user. Thank you.Raptaconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16935753467267352665noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-1503329891312583682012-02-19T16:43:00.002+00:002012-02-19T16:49:52.428+00:00New visixtor developmentThe consultation for the new developments at the three centres around the park took place on Friday. It was good to have such a great turn out and an overwhelming positive response to our plans. More consultation will take place once we have taken the information you gave us and developed the project further. Thank you all who took the time to come and see the plans. When we have something to show you all we will upload some drawings. Rapticon.Raptaconhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16935753467267352665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-27921426358625921402012-01-23T22:21:00.004+00:002012-01-23T22:27:51.927+00:00Stargazing - Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpCmtBc3pGkPp7j4b46-hyO3JVkCTopuBrVKNqxDBgw4tATLO5q0ClJO2uOauvG7idh4XepmOO7tLIQr5EYztgePZzjSPSIYiz4Sboam9XfO0JFYbDuIGr3umgQLHosOWWRN44MKAVmXY/s1600/LJH-Orion+at+Kirroughtreeweb.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpCmtBc3pGkPp7j4b46-hyO3JVkCTopuBrVKNqxDBgw4tATLO5q0ClJO2uOauvG7idh4XepmOO7tLIQr5EYztgePZzjSPSIYiz4Sboam9XfO0JFYbDuIGr3umgQLHosOWWRN44MKAVmXY/s320/LJH-Orion+at+Kirroughtreeweb.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700956264653474914" /></a><br /><div>Here is a picture I took of tonights night sky from Kirroughtree visitor centre where we held our stargazing for beginners event tonight. Thank you to all that came along, some had traveled quite a distance. </div><div><br /></div><div>We have more stargazing events coming up. Check out our website for details www.forestry.gov.uk/darkskygalloway</div><div><br /></div><div>Yogi</div>Yogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-40386192742107488662012-01-06T11:42:00.002+00:002012-01-06T11:55:41.909+00:00Stagazing events coming upJoin us in the Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park for some great Stargazing events. <br /><br /><strong>Stargazing for beginners</strong><br /><strong>23rd</strong> <strong>January</strong> and <strong>16th February</strong> 7pm start - Kirroughtree visitor centre.<br /><br /><strong>Dark Sky Park trip</strong><br /><strong>27th January</strong> 6.30 - 9.30pm - Glentrool - at the old school <strong>Booking esential</strong><br /><br /><strong>Starlight Serenade</strong><br /><strong>14th February</strong> 7pm start - Kirroughtree visitor centre<br /><br />Visit our <a href="http://www.forestry.gov.uk/darkskygalloway">Galloway Forest Park</a> website for more details<br /><br />YogiYogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-47828383292016251772011-12-10T18:40:00.004+00:002011-12-10T18:52:44.553+00:00Santa's Grotto at Kirroughtree VC<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9r84bKRsEwdVzRh2GU8NXJWrN0XFfLmNh9hUeB7hlfGE0tXxYypnUGut-BWidhA1G_V2_e5e4-jLLtjQr2BcRvQMUKF99lPz0g7lZOen7FYRrWlEYi9Q0ODomRFDxhTP81Im72-qtdYk/s1600/LJH-Santa%2527s+grotto+low+res.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5684572848740344866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9r84bKRsEwdVzRh2GU8NXJWrN0XFfLmNh9hUeB7hlfGE0tXxYypnUGut-BWidhA1G_V2_e5e4-jLLtjQr2BcRvQMUKF99lPz0g7lZOen7FYRrWlEYi9Q0ODomRFDxhTP81Im72-qtdYk/s320/LJH-Santa%2527s+grotto+low+res.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxs126gxAiZHuAbh8XtuAkDx7tK9IWGfxJGiLFlXO5kRVcRlue-x6fHvbJkflCTqJyCKrk0IkXabfvZDskjSskwimQYwC82nJwUSQgE3_vZuxNuLJvKeZNe0JYn271OyJdKNVr6qJDLp4/s1600/LJH-Santa%2527s+grotto+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5684572845137568338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxs126gxAiZHuAbh8XtuAkDx7tK9IWGfxJGiLFlXO5kRVcRlue-x6fHvbJkflCTqJyCKrk0IkXabfvZDskjSskwimQYwC82nJwUSQgE3_vZuxNuLJvKeZNe0JYn271OyJdKNVr6qJDLp4/s320/LJH-Santa%2527s+grotto+2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>Here are a couple of photos taken at our Santa's Grotto and Real Christmas Trees Sales event today at Kirroughtree visitor centre. </div><br /><br /><div>Don't worry if you didn't manage to make it along, Santa will be there again tomorrow between 10.30am and 4pm. </div><br /><br /><div>And dont forget, as usual we also have a great selection of Real Christmas trees to buy too!</div><br /><br /><div>Yogi</div><br /><div></div></div><br /><div>ps thank you to the Newton Stewart Singers for the wonderful carols they sang at Kirroughtree again this year.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div>Yogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-3324986865879556072011-10-31T10:19:00.003+00:002011-10-31T10:31:09.804+00:00Autumn colour updateThe Autumn colour across the park is now in full swing. The beeches have turned that lovely fiery orange and the oaks are close behind. <div><br /></div><div>My favourite place in the Galloway Forest Park to enjoy Autumn colour is in Glentrool. From the minute you turn off the road from the village you are greeted by gorgeous beech trees. Head past the visitor centre and along to Bruce's Stone where you get to look down on the warm glow of the oaks along the Buchan.<div><br /></div><div>But don't take my word for it, the next spare morning or afternoon you get head there yourself and enjoy the annual display. Just don't leave it too long because once the leaves have dropped your chance has gone for another 12 months!</div><div><br /></div><div>hum... now where did I leave my tripod......!</div><div>Yogi</div></div>Yogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-81796417096796562732011-10-14T08:58:00.004+01:002011-10-14T09:21:44.594+01:00Autumn leaves<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitKTlw_W0TLG9nsnHz8PACNWUoYLNDcM2jV3rwzZI7A2plv7AdUHz_FAJ9Pptsfrm69CuaZVIAZNXSI0pfyYF7UXs3dyx5A06RCxj-qbNsTyAWuLNdzpVSZLdSCRPynJ1WWMLCP-P5tKU/s1600/LJHautumn+leavesforweb.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5663256240317377778" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitKTlw_W0TLG9nsnHz8PACNWUoYLNDcM2jV3rwzZI7A2plv7AdUHz_FAJ9Pptsfrm69CuaZVIAZNXSI0pfyYF7UXs3dyx5A06RCxj-qbNsTyAWuLNdzpVSZLdSCRPynJ1WWMLCP-P5tKU/s320/LJHautumn+leavesforweb.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>Some trees are really starting to stand out from the crowd. Horse Chestnuts, Sycamores, Birch and Larch are putting in a good display.<br /></div><br /><div>So if you're out and about exploring the Galloway Forest Park this weekend then be sure to remember your camera!</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div>Have a great weekend</div><br /><br /><div>Yogi</div><br /><br /><div>ps only a few spaces left on the Autumn Colours Photography event at Glentrool (27th October 1.30pm - 4pm) Booking essential 01671 402 420. Charges apply.</div>Yogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-70816286475856397412011-10-13T08:24:00.003+01:002011-10-13T08:43:38.675+01:00Wild Autumn<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8vdsgebByl1L-CMoBoMay9snq0TgXVDKrYHxEObkkqa95U_NU5FMvonnipb8fY2ebOXDkHRpcP34Bm7HwYNECQ2WsdvSBDdWk56urmlM69vHw_30_y1JctM-HsKZSxJTzL6i9f4w987M/s1600/LJHglentrool.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8vdsgebByl1L-CMoBoMay9snq0TgXVDKrYHxEObkkqa95U_NU5FMvonnipb8fY2ebOXDkHRpcP34Bm7HwYNECQ2WsdvSBDdWk56urmlM69vHw_30_y1JctM-HsKZSxJTzL6i9f4w987M/s320/LJHglentrool.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662878344967226658" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Glentrool </div><div style="text-align: center;">Photo copyright LJHadley</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Autumn is upon us and I for one am very excited. Not only is it time for spotting migratory birds such as red wings, field fares and wax wings but also we become surrounded by stunning Autumn colour and light.<div><br /><div> </div><div>There are also heaps of wildlife events happening across the region from the 15th to 30th October as part of Wild Autumn. Art exhibitions, small mammal safaris, deer range tours to mention a few. Visit the <a href="http://www.wildseasons.co.uk/">Wild Autumn website</a> for full event listings. </div><div><br /></div><div>As part of Wild Autumn we have some great events lined up too including 'Autumn Colours Photography' being led by our Ranger and photography enthusiast Lucy as well as extra 'Red Deer Range' tours. Details of these events can be found on our<a href="http://www.forestry.gov.uk/gallowayforestpark"> website</a></div><div><br /></div><div>So Wrap up warm and watch Autumn happen right here!</div><div><br /></div><div>Until next time, Yogi</div></div>Yogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-31800319495906596002011-08-15T09:39:00.004+01:002011-08-15T09:55:19.770+01:00New Deer HideThe next time you visit the <a href="http://www.forestry.gov.uk/gallowayforestpark">Galloway Forest Park</a> check out our new Red Deer Range hide. It's not brand new we have recycled it from an old storage shed we had at Glentrool that wasn't needed for storage anymore. We couldn't bring ourselves to demolish the shed because although it's been a storage shed for years it was still a really good shed.
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<br />So we moved it up to the deer range, put windows in it, some chairs and now we have a hide that can be used to watch the deer whilst sheltering from the rain! Recycling at its best!
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<br />We are currently busy writing up some information about the stags that will be displayed in the hide to help you spot the different characters we have in the Deer Range.
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<br />So next time you're in the area pop in and say hello, we would love to know what you think of our new hide.
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<br />Y
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<br />Yogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-23360003008733556202011-08-11T14:25:00.007+01:002011-08-11T16:06:38.708+01:00Going Wild this Autumn!Dumfries and Galloway is a great place to enjoy wildlife at any time of the year, better still there are heaps of events planned to help you get closer to some of the amazing wildlife that lives here.
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<br />Want a taster of what wildlife to expect to see this Autumn in Dumfries and Galloway? Check out the <a href="http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/infd-7r5j4w">Wild Autumn </a>video featuring some of the highlights!
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<br />Yogi
<br />Yogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-26038406476773554152011-07-28T15:55:00.003+01:002011-07-28T16:07:47.008+01:00Solar Day and Fete coming soon...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUpV35zsBJpcMzOnnwhn-RoJQdPy3_uQzylJdWnjdcF6EZoEl2O0Sx5ItjCe4wmsKFPMenAKt4gysuODTm5M4rA0mkjFYc1GebWWkn7y5T8dQXn2Yfiulh4Mmh5jzXNSaHg66qZaTZ_Vc/s1600/solar+day.bmp"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 224px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634419819228451682" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUpV35zsBJpcMzOnnwhn-RoJQdPy3_uQzylJdWnjdcF6EZoEl2O0Sx5ItjCe4wmsKFPMenAKt4gysuODTm5M4rA0mkjFYc1GebWWkn7y5T8dQXn2Yfiulh4Mmh5jzXNSaHg66qZaTZ_Vc/s320/solar+day.bmp" /></a><br /><br /><div></div>Yogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-6070005971381868072011-07-14T12:44:00.003+01:002011-07-14T12:50:19.864+01:00Forest operations at KirroughtreeFrom Friday 15th July there will be some forest operations taking place at <a href="http://www.forestry.gov.uk/website/recreation.nsf/LUWebDocsByKey/ScotlandDumfriesandGallowayNoForestGallowayForestParkKirroughtreeVisitorCentre">Kirroughtree visitor centre.</a> All trails are open but timber lorries will be using some of the forest roads in this area so please take care on these routes. <br /><br />For more information visit our <a href="http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/infd-7r5f48">updates page</a> or follow us on <a href="http://www.twitter.com/gallowayforest">Twitter</a><br /><br />Apologies for any inconvenience this may cause.<br /><br />YYogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-89947333624831765502011-07-13T15:59:00.003+01:002011-07-13T16:03:04.891+01:0010 at Kirroughtree<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPhO9_Dfp1_GACmIH1s0cHe0b_Y5b468HaMyoqenueX-T097-YS86kWsl4fykKFIyPaWqdKQ4nIihxHO4e0llthp_QOxK1ruWF34_XUdAzp3wPoYfCBPvVAOuzjLVz0wotlKYiRjbt0Yo/s1600/10+%2540+Kirroughtree+2011.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628851894409114482" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPhO9_Dfp1_GACmIH1s0cHe0b_Y5b468HaMyoqenueX-T097-YS86kWsl4fykKFIyPaWqdKQ4nIihxHO4e0llthp_QOxK1ruWF34_XUdAzp3wPoYfCBPvVAOuzjLVz0wotlKYiRjbt0Yo/s320/10+%2540+Kirroughtree+2011.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhic1Ds-Atg8FAxjOKriZELtq10yUnUo54oVTLdMgfGwofN6kuob4fSzPqFJKWOqRYdoa4zN8jtOczH7gaSIlECty8gVHNtnp3NYDX5fvTOlFfqDeSjw7I-LSkHftMebLyLUSy2HKGxSmU/s1600/10+%2540+Kirroughtree+3.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 265px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628851887905294338" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhic1Ds-Atg8FAxjOKriZELtq10yUnUo54oVTLdMgfGwofN6kuob4fSzPqFJKWOqRYdoa4zN8jtOczH7gaSIlECty8gVHNtnp3NYDX5fvTOlFfqDeSjw7I-LSkHftMebLyLUSy2HKGxSmU/s320/10+%2540+Kirroughtree+3.jpg" /></a><br />The 10 hour mountain bike event took place on Saturday at Kirroughtree visitor centre in the Galloway Forest Park and the weather couldn't have been better.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Here are a couple of pictures I got at the start of the race. Well done to all of the riders!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Y</div><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div>Yogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-54965385131996346112011-07-13T09:27:00.004+01:002011-07-13T09:36:24.819+01:00Home Tweet Home<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWY5_dUcpD8hHPSqTAQDKqTZfgM11V5LLS3pmuaBjDF7ch5aOYJlKjKidcZkYPxpggnbg_zyWQJC0buEDnsSYy3pq0HqW_1huwyScxftXvaSdqqrB-TqBtx1KXBTZkmYpVSh66Tmmt5mE/s1600/LJH+Swallow+for+web.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628752688340204066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWY5_dUcpD8hHPSqTAQDKqTZfgM11V5LLS3pmuaBjDF7ch5aOYJlKjKidcZkYPxpggnbg_zyWQJC0buEDnsSYy3pq0HqW_1huwyScxftXvaSdqqrB-TqBtx1KXBTZkmYpVSh66Tmmt5mE/s320/LJH+Swallow+for+web.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div>Our Swallow chicks have now fledged! Four wee cuties, I was at the Glentrool visitor centre on Sunday and was fortunate to see them taking their first flying lessons!</div><br /><br /><div>This one (pictured above) started with a short flight from it's nest to a near by silver birch tree where it sat for ages. It was eventually persuaded to give flying another go by mum and dad who came flying passed with chirps of encouragement. It took to the air, did a couple of very small laps outside the centre and landed back in it's cosy nest. </div><br /><br /><div>I'm sure they will still be around the centre for a while so look out for them when you're next there.</div><br /><br /><div>Just leaves one question........ will the parent swallows try for another brood before they head back to Africa? We will just have to wait and see.</div><br /><br /><div>Y</div>Yogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-14699786605251713752011-07-04T09:45:00.003+01:002011-07-04T09:50:34.106+01:00Poplar Hawk Moth<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_KCDuFpUuIKZdpNyMncoLZpFqB2Ej7llKQ__cyCqIViukn2TZdF_aXWkc-NOGSYSl_TDjTpQTKnZF8Egf_LveTSkMziXmSCYG4wEisqwze0i-wsJg3a238lJDGXpI57cT-1heQvpYMt8/s1600/LJHHawkMoth+for+web.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625416795555537234" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_KCDuFpUuIKZdpNyMncoLZpFqB2Ej7llKQ__cyCqIViukn2TZdF_aXWkc-NOGSYSl_TDjTpQTKnZF8Egf_LveTSkMziXmSCYG4wEisqwze0i-wsJg3a238lJDGXpI57cT-1heQvpYMt8/s320/LJHHawkMoth+for+web.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div>This moth visited our moth trap the other night. My school group the following morning at kirroughtree visitor centre really enjoyed seeing all of the different types of moths but I think it's safe to say this one was their favourite!</div><br /><br /><div>Y</div>Yogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-25322409231841174782011-06-24T15:36:00.004+01:002011-06-24T15:51:42.559+01:00Deer Range Diaries<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxkLzNXaN-qhM_doAxsFtYxxbuQd-wgUXGjqf3w3Kyqm69VGbkWOFO_ZX_XYUQeB8Xe9Plf_kWB8ftDScGL6hLO91bN5YlTHe-Tgmlo5YOyaiPgiBrcXyGr1R6plgDNEKmMsDCj-Ohdx8/s1600/LJHRedDeerCalf2010.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 286px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621798465417414050" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxkLzNXaN-qhM_doAxsFtYxxbuQd-wgUXGjqf3w3Kyqm69VGbkWOFO_ZX_XYUQeB8Xe9Plf_kWB8ftDScGL6hLO91bN5YlTHe-Tgmlo5YOyaiPgiBrcXyGr1R6plgDNEKmMsDCj-Ohdx8/s320/LJHRedDeerCalf2010.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQEsXiA2bKp_lbZiS8TXLNyZjMSmUGXgEyNXlE2_kVzvPHdA5_pO7xD3P_6b2hEcxm2YiZ64bnkMlnNW9WrZjthb-zQhRb0dKnISIwvUjZVo-nY3YR1sQKXft94l-jVhiyjqlf5RMhFAo/s1600/LJH+HindandCalf2010.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 221px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621798460971673778" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQEsXiA2bKp_lbZiS8TXLNyZjMSmUGXgEyNXlE2_kVzvPHdA5_pO7xD3P_6b2hEcxm2YiZ64bnkMlnNW9WrZjthb-zQhRb0dKnISIwvUjZVo-nY3YR1sQKXft94l-jVhiyjqlf5RMhFAo/s320/LJH+HindandCalf2010.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div>Deer Range tours have now started for the season at the Red Deer Range. The stags antlers are growing at an amazing rate and we are getting great sightings of some of the wee calves who were born early June and are VERY CUTE!</div><br /><br /><div>I've attached a couple of photos of one of last years calves but a picture is not as much fun as actually seeing these youngsters for yourself and a Deer Range tour is great for that.<br /></div><br /><div>There is a tour next Tuesday and Thursday 11am, then daily - Sundays to Thursdays (11am) from the 3rd July.</div><br /><br /><div>Visit our website for more information <a href="http://http//www.forestry.gov.uk/website/recreation.nsf/LUWebDocsByKey/ScotlandDumfriesandGallowayNoForestGallowayForestParkRedDeerRange">Galloway Forest Park Red Deer Range</a></div><br /><br /><div>Have a good weekend</div><br /><div>Yogi</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div>Yogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-90987922934228560652011-06-24T14:09:00.003+01:002011-06-24T14:18:46.308+01:00Home Tweet HomeThe swallows at Glentrool have babies!!!<br /><br />We are not sure how many chicks there are or when they hatched, but we definitely saw a little beak that popped over the top of the nest when I was at the visitor centre today. <br /><br />Barbara and Shona at the centre said that the parent birds have been back and forth a lot of late, probably with food for the little ones!<br /><br />Still no pictures of swallows to post yet I'm afraid.<br /><br />YogiYogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-23085813705086158152011-06-02T09:55:00.004+01:002011-06-02T10:08:44.068+01:00Home Tweet Home 2011Our Swallows have returned to Glentrool visitor centre again this year and have been busily preparing their new home to raise a family. We would love to bring you live footage from the little camera outside streamed to the TV inside the centre, but guess where they have built their nest this year?!!<br /><br />....That's right, on the little camera!! (we've decided that they have become camera shy!)<br /><br />I will try and get a couple of photos of their new home and post them here shortly, along with progress of the growing family!<br /><br />YYogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-39480112431577655862011-05-19T09:59:00.004+01:002011-05-19T10:31:01.573+01:00Deer Range Diaries<strong>Newly born Calf!</strong><br /><br />Yes you read it right, our first 2011 red deer calf has been born at the range. Both mum and calf are doing brilliantly. This is a very early arrival as the calves are not generally born until early June.<br /><br />Which means our 3 native species in Galloway will be having, or about to be having, their calves too. Please bear this in mind if out exploring woods and hills and keep any dogs you may have with you close by. Being chased by dogs is highly stressful for any wild animal, especially if they are pregnant or with young.<br /><br />I'll post some pictures of our new arrival when I can. In the first few days they are quite shy and hide in the grass a lot under the watchful eye of mum. But when they are a bit braver I'll see if I can get a photo!<br /><br />YYogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-3594497421576490212011-04-28T16:11:00.002+01:002011-04-28T16:17:12.701+01:00Bluebell updateWhilst I was at Kirroughtree today, leading the Orienteering for Beginners event, I had a quick look at the bluebells and most of them are now in full flower and looking fabulous! <br /><br />So if you're looking for a a nice woodland walk this weekend I can recommend Kirroughtree or Cally Woods in Gatehouse as a good place to start!<br /><br />Have a great weekend!<br /><br />YogiYogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-10175126689680610872011-04-26T15:53:00.004+01:002011-04-26T16:05:23.181+01:00Bluebells in the Galloway Forest Park<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR2meIffOHjZDVYNYhVhJNk_bOd7IfkjXqNR44TrgEKoIBsApja8AGvGS-iBMWseenQTwZz3owhS6NQ9oPMqjqybeEt-n-Sab25mEbtcgL7j8yDR4_vW6Tt2O0nb17nuqxhlMrpUGH5cc/s1600/LJHadley+bluebell+for+web.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599908274110450978" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR2meIffOHjZDVYNYhVhJNk_bOd7IfkjXqNR44TrgEKoIBsApja8AGvGS-iBMWseenQTwZz3owhS6NQ9oPMqjqybeEt-n-Sab25mEbtcgL7j8yDR4_vW6Tt2O0nb17nuqxhlMrpUGH5cc/s320/LJHadley+bluebell+for+web.JPG" /></a>The Bluebells are early this year and whilst they haven't quite burst in to full flowers just yet they appear to be just days off. There is certainly a nice blue/purple haze going on in some areas of the park including Kirroughtree and Cally woods.<br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>So this bank holiday weekend could be a great time to visit a woodland in the Galloway Forest Park to enjoy a bluebell walk!<br /></div><br /><br /><div>Ill try and post a 'flowering' update towards the end of the week.</div><br /><br /><br /><div>Yogi</div>Yogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-60750674483536005842011-04-25T13:10:00.003+01:002011-04-25T13:25:06.251+01:00Galloway Dark Sky Park<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmTR-K1Z5VpbwTrV-2_E1Ent17Jhhup4Nivpl2SZtUMr24ZFjZxzL2baNP8Cz-H03f8UUGuaScErxWXYkXRf3UYU6I41jWTlBkVqs96Z6KnVEVlFXUTop0KtsWp8pIArjZceycRHR_PYw/s1600/Darkskymerchandise3.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599495502837875458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmTR-K1Z5VpbwTrV-2_E1Ent17Jhhup4Nivpl2SZtUMr24ZFjZxzL2baNP8Cz-H03f8UUGuaScErxWXYkXRf3UYU6I41jWTlBkVqs96Z6KnVEVlFXUTop0KtsWp8pIArjZceycRHR_PYw/s320/Darkskymerchandise3.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkpH0qKMgR5C8LxmfxzBBg9cA9gAjEfNBFkYhdCmr8v067nm1-vvsm1KZpUhwbCooxJ2YmtP_d1ycDLc1R8m-PQGxBDSBVk6ADxrSLLfQmyJQE3lXTCjDa3vN4MXX9NQH0FMl4NNkZzwA/s1600/darkskymugs.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 175px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599495499116198370" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkpH0qKMgR5C8LxmfxzBBg9cA9gAjEfNBFkYhdCmr8v067nm1-vvsm1KZpUhwbCooxJ2YmtP_d1ycDLc1R8m-PQGxBDSBVk6ADxrSLLfQmyJQE3lXTCjDa3vN4MXX9NQH0FMl4NNkZzwA/s320/darkskymugs.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://http//www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/INFD-7R5HHE">Galloway forest dark sky park</a> merchandise is now available to buy from our 3 visitor centres <a href="http://http//www.forestry.gov.uk/website/recreation.nsf/LUWebDocsByKey/ScotlandDumfriesandGallowayNoForestGallowayForestParkClatteringshawsVisitorCentre">Clatteringshaws</a>, <a href="http://http//www.forestry.gov.uk/website/recreation.nsf/LUWebDocsByKey/ScotlandDumfriesandGallowayNoForestGallowayForestParkKirroughtreeVisitorCentre">Kirroughtree</a> and <a href="http://http//www.forestry.gov.uk/website/recreation.nsf/LUWebDocsByKey/ScotlandDumfriesandGallowayNoForestGallowayForestParkGlentroolVisitorCentre">Glentrool.</a><br /></div><br /><br /><div>Whether it be a new mug for your morning coffee or a key ring to post to friends and family there is something for you. Pop in and have a look next time your passing.</div><br /><br /><br /><div>Yogi</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div></div>Yogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-72920845388139014622011-04-21T08:37:00.005+01:002011-04-21T09:01:21.816+01:00Spring Photography at Glentrool<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyN5mlFsqpQovv4rTp2Z6P-LQVlAamkpHzu1XJ91_UBwBSlZQdRati43OJ52W7ml58hGeSvKp8V9KT3pCOvtCIVVJituVs6n60apsCEE2JA7Jd2LRCz0MY3LunOXD-zUZylAV0ZP3QR4Q/s1600/Spring+photography+Glentrool.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 175px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597943320712669618" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyN5mlFsqpQovv4rTp2Z6P-LQVlAamkpHzu1XJ91_UBwBSlZQdRati43OJ52W7ml58hGeSvKp8V9KT3pCOvtCIVVJituVs6n60apsCEE2JA7Jd2LRCz0MY3LunOXD-zUZylAV0ZP3QR4Q/s320/Spring+photography+Glentrool.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyvtewXC9xOCvGNrWydc_hfs1HrhF7o56JTOItqv9neBztS0shyn-M7TKfnP0M5Gg30eSyfBMO6MKrRsdrqcgi0sVuwJCA9KippXonUJnlvkbazfInUNNH44TFBWqwEASLBuC2xn9VDeI/s1600/Glentrool+photography.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597943321387433906" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyvtewXC9xOCvGNrWydc_hfs1HrhF7o56JTOItqv9neBztS0shyn-M7TKfnP0M5Gg30eSyfBMO6MKrRsdrqcgi0sVuwJCA9KippXonUJnlvkbazfInUNNH44TFBWqwEASLBuC2xn9VDeI/s320/Glentrool+photography.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDa-Vv17I2qk4Gg0qeDnWE3H7eYmfcAJLqGZdnYQR30ZLdr2PhyphenhyphenUEZ5zaq4K8VjxGgVTZHDSf4HA_9JX4zMgTY-oOEfLuxYGcQDnIr_ZsOvU-GAelzoJRuSjGJHLk7_Io52aUPMHKJo8Q/s1600/moss+glentrool+spring+photography.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597943311225625666" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDa-Vv17I2qk4Gg0qeDnWE3H7eYmfcAJLqGZdnYQR30ZLdr2PhyphenhyphenUEZ5zaq4K8VjxGgVTZHDSf4HA_9JX4zMgTY-oOEfLuxYGcQDnIr_ZsOvU-GAelzoJRuSjGJHLk7_Io52aUPMHKJo8Q/s320/moss+glentrool+spring+photography.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLaAbL9fD70SyttN_iCajzIlgwYGB6mwzhtOo7_t_S3KMb4J_SDDcBIRUqjvchq3FG97uueIC7qDEGIeWluSiy6W2Y_Bv8QKVkCjMAYmXR0oTw5zPWbmscyjJuXM-45CLy2k2zuUF7gTY/s1600/Tree+branches.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597943313244344850" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLaAbL9fD70SyttN_iCajzIlgwYGB6mwzhtOo7_t_S3KMb4J_SDDcBIRUqjvchq3FG97uueIC7qDEGIeWluSiy6W2Y_Bv8QKVkCjMAYmXR0oTw5zPWbmscyjJuXM-45CLy2k2zuUF7gTY/s320/Tree+branches.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>It was a great day yesterday to be exploring <a href="http://http//www.forestry.gov.uk/website/recreation.nsf/LUWebDocsByKey/ScotlandDumfriesandGallowayNoForestGallowayForestParkGlentroolVisitorCentre">Glentrool</a>. We met at the visitor centre and then headed to the Buchan and Glenhead, which were the two main areas we focused on for the afternoon. The Buchan is beautiful at any time of the year with it's mix of old trees and small rivers, snugly nestled into the surrounding hills.</div><br /><br /><div>The sunshine was a bit bright really for photography but the warm weather allowed us to soak up our surroundings and take time to focus on the smaller details found in the woodland.</div><br /><br /><div>Here are some photos I took during the afternoon. </div><br /><br /><div>Yogi</div><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Yogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8708851339573821068.post-54590859818931188052011-04-18T14:47:00.003+01:002011-04-18T14:59:45.833+01:00Spring Photography in the Galloway Forest Park<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyoTaWPQdnjcPSwKs-MdDGo9l7qKAljlZauzLhk6yFxhnCgDEU7hlT6onUHvF4PyEeTz5Af7zzV5ocRwwmNbcDRjZIVqjrOJbql_-M9UQdA53zcpZvafRHhTqQPVuSdWHPPNY0GsaH-qY/s1600/LJHadley+hoverfly.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 216px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596922300984125666" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyoTaWPQdnjcPSwKs-MdDGo9l7qKAljlZauzLhk6yFxhnCgDEU7hlT6onUHvF4PyEeTz5Af7zzV5ocRwwmNbcDRjZIVqjrOJbql_-M9UQdA53zcpZvafRHhTqQPVuSdWHPPNY0GsaH-qY/s320/LJHadley+hoverfly.jpg" /></a> <br /><div><strong>There are only 4 spaces left</strong> on the <strong>Spring Colour Photography event</strong> this Wednesday (20th April) at Glentrool. </div><br /><div>Join Lucy and Andrew, our photography enthusiasts, for an afternoon exploring <a href="http://http//www.forestry.gov.uk/website/recreation.nsf/LUWebDocsByKey/ScotlandDumfriesandGallowayNoForestGallowayForestPark">Glentrool</a> Oakwoods with you camera. It doesn't matter if you have a digital compact or SLR camera, everyone is welcome. </div><br /><div>It's an exciting time of year as leaves are bursting from their buds and woodland plants are starting to flower. There are some great water features on this route too!</div><br /><div>£15 per person which includes a cup of tea or coffee when we get back to the visitor centre. </div><br /><div><strong>Booking essential</strong> please call 01671 402 420 to book your place. but hurry... we are nearly fully booked!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Yogi</div>Yogihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14005185508398618390noreply@blogger.com0