Allt Mhuic Nature Reserve

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About Allt Mhuic Nature Reserve

This 80 hectare reserve supports important populations of two scarce butterflies, the Chequered Skipper and Pearl-bordered Fritillary.

The best time to visit is from mid-May to the end of June, when both species are on the wing. However, a visit at any time of the year will be rewarding whether to see the wildlife or enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and marvellous scenery.

The reserve is Butterfly Conservation's first nature reserve in Scotland and is being managed in partnership with Forestry Commission Scotland and Forest Research.

How to get there:

Allt Mhuic Nature Reserve can be started from Butterfly Reserve Car Park in Loch Arkaig. Spean Bridge and Fort William are the nearest towns or villages.

By road from Spean Bridge, follow the A82 north. At the Commando Memorial, approximately one mile north of Spean Bridge, turn left onto the B8004.

Follow this road over Caledonian Canal at Garlochy then turn right onto the B8005. Follow this road for approximately 10 miles.

OS Grid Reference: NN121 912
For details of public transport visit http://www.travelinescotland.com

Wildlife

Mammals: Dawn and dusk are good times to see otters on the loch and the elusive pine marten, which are both widespread in the area. We have information about Otter

Birds: Whilst not the star attraction here, the reserve boasts a range of species typical of various habitats. Grey wagtails and dippers breed along the burn. Wood warblers sing amongst the birch. tree pipits, whinchats, spotted and pied flycatchers frequent the open hill. A large bird of prey low down is likely to be a common buzzard, or a sparrowhawk whilst high above or on the skyline you may be treated to a golden eagle. Keep an eye on the loch as ospreys regularly patrol. Red and black-throated divers also come to fish. We have information about Golden eagle and Osprey

Insects and reptiles: The chequered skipper and pearl-bordered fritillary are the mainstays of the reserve. Other insects include the argent and sable moth, the scotch argus butterfly, the azure hawker dragonfly and woodants. Adders have also been spotted on the reserve. We have information about Adder and Pearl-bordered fritillary

Habitats: The reserve comprises a mosaic of open native woodland, (mainly oak and birch), moorland and rough grassland between two large conifer plantations.