For a woodland walk, it's great place to visit. In spring & summer, the wood fills with a carpet of bluebells, other flowers and birdsong while red squirrels are busy in the trees. Visit the otter platform, where you may luckily see one in the river.
The Wood of Cree is the largest ancient wood in southern Scotland. In spring, the woodland really comes alive, with bluebells on the ground and birdsong in the air. You'll hear pied flycatchers and warblers. The wood is the perfect place to see willow tits, which are declining in the UK, as well as barn and tawny owls, and visitors such as redstarts and garden warblers. While you're here, spend some time on the otter platform and look out onto the river, which is teeming with life throughout the year.
Entry and parking is free but donations to help us continue our work here are welcome.Staff are not always present but the reserve is open at all times, throughout the year. For information about events on this reserve, check http://www.rspb.org.uk/events/.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring
Carpets of bluebells and other woodland flowers; woodland birds include pied flycatchers, redstarts, tree pipits, wood warblers, willow tits, buzzards and great spotted woodpeckers. A range of bat species including the rare Leisler's bat. Red squirrels, otters and roe deer.
Summer
Woodland birds include pied flycatchers, redstarts, tree pipits, wood warblers, willow tits, buzzards and great spotted woodpeckers. A range of bat species including the rare Leisler's bat. Red squirrels, otters and roe deer.
Autumn
Goldeneyes, whooper swans, teal and mallards arrive on the reserve.
Winter
Winter is a good time to explore the woodland as birds and squirrels are easier to see when there are no leaves to get in the way! Roving flocks of tits may be accompanied by woodpeckers and treecreepers.Charms of finches can also be seen.
Information for dog owners
This nature reserve is important for wildlife. RSPB Scotland welcomes responsible access, in line with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. During the ground-nesting bird breeding season (1 April to 15 August) we request that you keep your dog close to you, preferably on a short lead, clean up after your dog and that you keep to the paths.
