An organisation established to protect the River Dee has created its own version of the BBC’s Springwatch to celebrate the north-east waterway’s wildlife.
The Dee Catchment Partnership has started its own monthly DeeWatch online blog, designed to highlight what plants, animals and insects the public can spot while out and about in Deeside.
Drawing from the expertise of the region’s various ranger services, the blog will contain hints and tips on how best to spot and photograph the region’s flora and fauna, from butterflies and bats to fruits and fungi.
It is hoped the new blog will encourage residents to enjoy the great outdoor, and help make the natural wonders of the River Dee accessible to even more people.
Susan Cooksley, DCP manager, said: “Pine marten, red squirrel and otter are found throughout the catchment and some of nature’s great spectacles, like geese gathering to roost in their thousands, happen right here on our doorstep.
“With practice, the variety of wildlife you see will grow and rare species will become easier to spot.
“The more common species like frogs, dragonflies and blackbirds are equally beautiful and fascinating – and much easier to photograph.
“And our amazing plants, like lady’s smock or meadowsweet and our fabulous fungi, like fly agaric and chanterelles don’t run away.
“We would love to hear from people about their own sightings and welcome photos and footage to include in the blog.”
