A bird charity has teamed up with a Moray estate to create more habitats for wildlife at the thriving wetland.
Loch Spynie near Lossiemouth already attracts ducks, herons and otters as well as providing the ingredients for rare orchids to grow.
Now the RSPB and the loch’s owners, Pitgaveney Estate, will work together with the community to create nests and hides at the wetland for the diverse wildlife.
The loch is already recognised as a site of special scientific interest due to the range of species.
These include a colony of black-headed gulls, swans and marsh harriers as well as its reed bed, which is the largest of its kind in Scotland.
Martin Auld, regional director for RSPB Scotland, is excited that the secluded water will continue to be home to countless birds for years to come.
He said: “Loch Spynie is such a special place and provides homes for a wealth of wetland wildlife. We are really excited to be embarking on this new partnership to help maintain and enhance its importance for years to come.”
The loch was a tidal inlet until the 16th century before it was cut off by a shingle spit. As it shrank in size during the 18th and 19th centuries it left behind the wetland that is there today.
Crinan Dunbar, co-owner of the estate, said: “Loch Spynie is an important part of Pitgaveny and my sister Rebecca Russell and I are delighted to have a partnership with RSPB Scotland which will enable us to preserve and enhance its unique habitats and character.”
