Blairfindy Moor

Traditional Scottish Working Moor

Situated on high ground between the Rivers Avon and Livet, Blairfindy Moor has been designated a special moorland management interpretation site for The Cairngorms National Park.

Roe Deer
Roe Deer
Wheatear
Wheatear

Moorland Vegetation

Although appearing untamed and bare at first impression, Glenlivet's moorlands are the product of sympathetic management which has created a distinctive landscape rich in wildlife. The practice of burning heather (Muirburn) in autumn and early spring produces the characteristic patchwork on our hillsides and ensures that tender young shoots of heather are produced for game birds in the following season. Light grazing restricts the spread of grasses, whilst heather and shrubs, which are so important to moorland wildlife, are allowed to flourish. The abundance of moorland birds and small mammals provides prey for raptors including Hen Harrier and Merlin.

Red Grouse
Red Grouse
Golden Plover
Golden Plover
Blairfindy Moor in The Cairngorms National Park - Scotland
Small Pearl Bordered Fritillary

Moorland Wildlife

Hen Harrier typically hunt low over the ground for Meadow Pipit, Voles and Mice. Sometimes larger prey such as young game birds or waders are taken. Merlin often nest on the ground and feed on smaller birds such as Meadow Pipit, Skylark and Wheatear. There are ideal conditions for a wide range of ground nesting game birds and waders including Red Grouse, Black Grouse and Golden Plover.

Roe Deer, Mountain and Brown Hare may all be found here. The Mountain Hare can be distinguished from the Brown Hare by its smaller size, shorter ears and white coat in winter.

During the summer Common Lizard may be seen basking in the warmth whilst moorland butterflies take to the air on sunny days. By August and September these hillsides become a vibrant purple as the heather blooms.

Meadow Pipit
Meadow Pipit
Ling
Ling
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