Mammals
Birds
Amphibians
Reptiles
Welcome to Dalnacardoch, Durrell’s first programme in Scotland, a country famous for its spectacular wildlife and wild places. Sadly, centuries of modifying the landscape means it is one of the most nature-depleted countries, with many diminished species and missing ecological functions.
This vast landscape spans 18,500 acres within the Cairngorms National Park. Decades of historical land use have left trees and wildlife clinging on in fragments.
Once vibrant peatlands exhibit scars of drainage channels and wide gulleys, exposing the peat to erosion and releasing carbon into the atmosphere.
Woodlands removed over centuries cannot return, and saplings attempting to grow are nibbled by deer and other herbivores, whose populations have caused continual decline.
However, there is hope. Together we can breathe life back into this land by restoring a rich mosaic of habitats and creating a landscape where natural processes flourish and once-lost species return. Working with local communities, we will nurture a deep, emotional, and economic connection between people and the environment.
Restore habitats
We plan to revive the peatlands by blocking drains to stop water and life draining from them and stitch the surrounding vegetation together to heal the wounds of this precious ecosystem. Through planting and natural regeneration, new woodlands will take root, creating dappled shade along the revitalised river, freed from restraints as it meanders naturally through the glens.
Recover wildlife
By restoring natural processes and rebuilding the essential foundations of this environment through collaboration with organisations and neighbouring estates, iconic species that have long been missing can return. With our expertise in species reintroduction, we envision a future where Dalnacardoch thrives with biodiversity—from beavers and wild cats to a rich array of birds, butterflies, and plant life.
Inspire people
People are an integral part of this landscape. Our goal is to inspire local communities and encourage visitors to immerse themselves in the environment. We will create jobs, educate and inspire visitors and establish a one-of-a-kind training centre for conservationists and land managers.
You can help recover this magnificent landscape for future generations to reconnect with Scotland’s native biodiversity.
It is thanks to the generosity of a Family Charitable Trust that we are the custodians of this precious land. However, we need long-term support to bring our vision to life.
£25 could enable the removal of historical fencing in the landscape
£50 could purchase tools to empower communities in ecosystem restoration
£100 could support monitoring work through expanding the use of digital technology
£500 could facilitate woodland creation by purchasing trees grown from seeds collected from the remaining native trees across the estate