Enjoy wonderful woodland wildlife
Bennan Viewpoint on the Galloway Red Kite Trail
wild goats in Galloway Forest Park
a red kite at Bellymack Hill Farm
a red deer stag
Spot some of Scotland’s spectacular wildlife species whilst you enjoy fantastic woodland walks in Dumfries & Galloway.
Galloway Forest Park is set in a spectacular area of natural beauty and with 27 waymarked trails for keen walkers, a large network of cycle paths, an abundance of intriguing wildlife and several picnic areas it is a great place to spend a day with the family. This is the largest forest park in Britain, which spans 300 square miles, and it is a must-see when visiting the region.
The park is home to a vast number of wildlife species and there are many areas dedicated to particular animals, which makes the chances of sighting them more likely. Visit the Galloway Wild Goat Park and enjoy getting close to the herd of ancient breed wild goats.
Carry on a bit further to see the park's largest mammal at the Red Deer Range. Between June and September you can take a guided ranger tour to learn more about the magnificent stags or visit in October to witness the Stag Roaring Event when the dominant stag rounds up a group of females for mating. See the handsome red stags at a safe distance away and hear the deep, bellowing roar of the strongest echoing around the hills. You may also come across black grouse, badgers and, as darkness falls, the secretive nightjar.
Visit the park at night for a dazzling star gazing experience. Galloway Forest Park was named the first Dark Sky Park in the UK in November 2009 and it offers visitors unrivalled views of the stars from many viewpoints.
Red kites have recently been re-established in Kirkcudbrightshire and you have the opportunity to see these magnificent birds on the Galloway Red Kite Trail. Follow the trail around beautiful Loch Ken to experience exciting bird watching at its best.
The whole trail is a 24-mile route around Loch Ken, or you can tackle just one of nine walks featuring six outdoor viewing points, four hides and a feeding station, making your chances of spotting these unique birds very likely. Why not take a family bike ride along the trail for a more exhilarating wildlife outing?
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