Tayside Raptor Study Group has around 30 members monitoring a variety of species of raptors within the Tayside and Fife area. Much of the habitat covered by the group is upland ranging in the west from the wet moors of Rannoch to the drier heaths of Angus in the east. In the north are the montane uplands and deer forests of the Atholl hills and to the south, the grassier upland sheepwalk of Breadalbane and the Ochill Hills.

The main species monitored are Peregrine, Golden Eagle, Harrier, Merlin, Osprey, Red Kite, Marsh Harrier and Raven. Species such as Short-eared Owl, Goshawk, Kestrel and Buzzard are also covered but by fewer observers. Although all the raptor species listed are of   importance both regionally and in some cases nationally, the group is particularly proud of the populations of 60+ pairs of Osprey, 7 pairs of Red Kite and 3 pairs of Marsh Harrier. For many years artificial nest sites have been constructed for Ospreys resulting in a secure and expanding population. A small number of artificial baskets have also been constructed for Merlins.

Members cover a specific area where they monitor their particular preferred species. Some will cover a small area perhaps monitoring 2 or 3 territories while others dedicate much of their free time during the breeding season observing a number of species and their territories. One member of TRSG has had a study area of Peregrines, Eagles and Ravens within south Perthshire for 27 years and other members have been monitoring various species for over 20 years. A number of the group are also members of the Tay Ringing Group thus with the appropriate licence ring nestlings at the nest as part of long term studies to show movements and longevity.

The group has twice yearly meetings to which representatives of the police, the RSPB and SNH are also invited to attend.

Contact: Mat Cluny

Tay estuary and reedbeds

Innerhadden, North Loch Rannoch

Managed moorland in the Angus hills