The North-east of Scotland RSG was formed in 1981, the first in Scotland. It currently has 24 members who meet biannually, before and after the breeding season. The group monitors the populations and breeding performance of raptors, owls and ravens within its area. The main species monitored are Golden eagle (18 pairs), Osprey (18 pairs), Goshawk (23 pairs), Hen Harrier 18 pairs), Merlin (52 pairs) and Peregrine (59 pairs). These figures are for 2003, the most recently published. For these species, all or most of the breeding pairs are monitored. The other species are less well covered. Studies on Buzzard, Long-eared Owl and Barn Owl are localised and depend on individual members.

The group’s area includes Moray south and east of the River Spey, Aberdeen city and the county of Aberdeenshire down to the River North Esk at the boundary with Angus. There is a diverse range of habitats. To the west, there are the high montane plateaus of the eastern Cairngorms and Lochnagar with remnant Caledonian pine forests in the adjacent glens. These areas are largely managed for deer stalking. As altitude decreases, productive grouse moors are found. Populations of raptors have declined on these moors. They have been replaced by commercial forestry in several areas. Beyond these plantations and moors, lies farmland which is intensive in the productive coastal plain. On the coast, spectacular sea cliffs support raptors which feed over these farms. These cliffs also have large seabird colonies, including the gannetry at Troup Head.

Photographs © Jon Hardey

Contact: Jon Hardey

Grouse moor. Heather managed by muir burn.

Deeside – view of Lochnagar.
Commercial forestry plantation,
Caledonian pine forest and mountain