LIGHTHOUSE IMPROVEMENTS HELP DECORATE OTTER HIDE ON SYKE
For the first time in 10 years, Forestry Commission Scotland's Otter Haven at Kylerhea, on the Isle of Skye, has been temporarily closed to allow a major overhaul of the facilities and enhancement of features to the site to take place. Wildlife enthusiasts however will only have to wait until the beginning of April, when the work is due to be completed, before returning to the popular visitor attraction.
The temporary closure and up-grading of the Otter Haven has been timed to coincide with work taking place at the neighbouring Northern Lighthouse Board's (NLB) Kylerhea light. NLB have been planning work at the light for the last 12 months during which time they have been liaising with Scottish National Heritage and Forestry Commission Scotland to ensure maximum safety to the wildlife at the site while work on the light is in progress. It is anticipated that during the work, the routines of the nearby otter population will alter and the mammals are likely to be active during the twilight hours of the day. This would make observations at the Otter Haven difficult. As a result, Forestry Commission Scotland have seized the opportunity to close the site temporarily and conduct a major overhaul of the facilities.
Kenneth Knott, Forestry Commission Scotland, commented;
"The haven is a popular spot for visitors and wildlife enthusiasts throughout the year who come to view an array of species including otters, Altantic grey seals, oystercatchers, and, on occasions, white-tailed sea eagles. It's never a good time to close however while the work is going on at the Kylerhea light, we can maximise the opportunity to make some major enhancements to the hide facilities which will benefit future visitors and only take a limited period to complete."
Further information about otters and the Kylerhea Otter Haven can be found by visiting www.forestry.gov.uk
Media enquiries to:
Diana McGowan, Forestry Commission Scotland, press office, tel: 0131 314 6507, email: diana.mcgowan@forestry.gsi.gov.uk
Kenneth Knott, Lochaber District Forest, tel: 01397 702184
e-mail: diana.mcgowan@forestry.gsi.gov.uk |