Loch Ruthven facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Loch Ruthven |
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 Loch Ruthven
Location in Highland
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| Location | Highland |
| Coordinates | 57°19′05″N 4°17′35″W / 57.318°N 4.293°W |
| Type | loch, mesotrophic |
| Basin countries | Scotland |
| Average depth | 11 ft (3.4 m) |
| Designated: | 16 August 1996 |
| Reference #: | 855 |
Loch Ruthven is a large freshwater loch (which means "lake" in Scotland). It is found in the beautiful Highland region of Scotland, not too far from the famous Loch Ness. This special loch is about 3.6 kilometers (2.25 miles) long. It covers an area of about 149 hectares (368 acres) and can be up to 12.8 meters (42 feet) deep.
Loch Ruthven is super important because it is the best place in the UK for a rare bird called the Slavonian grebe to breed. In fact, it has one of the largest groups of these birds in all of Europe! Because of its importance for wildlife, the RSPB has created a nature reserve here. Loch Ruthven is also recognized internationally as a Ramsar site, which means it's a very important wetland.
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Discovering Loch Ruthven
Loch Ruthven is a peaceful and beautiful place. It is located in the Scottish Highlands, an area known for its stunning landscapes. The loch's clear waters and surrounding habitats make it a perfect home for many different plants and animals.
Where is Loch Ruthven?
This lovely loch sits to the southeast of Loch Ness. It is part of the vast Highland council area. The area around the loch is mostly rural, with rolling hills and open spaces. This quiet setting helps protect the wildlife that lives there.
How Big is the Loch?
Loch Ruthven is considered a large loch. It stretches for about 3.6 kilometers (2.25 miles) from one end to the other. The loch covers a wide area of 149 hectares (368 acres). Its deepest point is around 12.8 meters (42 feet). These features create different habitats for various species.
Home to Rare Birds: The Slavonian Grebe
Loch Ruthven is most famous for being a vital breeding ground for the Slavonian grebe. These birds are quite rare in the UK and Europe. The loch provides the perfect conditions for them to build nests and raise their young.
What is a Slavonian Grebe?
The Slavonian grebe is a beautiful water bird. It is known for its striking looks, especially during breeding season. They have golden ear tufts and a reddish-brown neck. These birds are excellent divers and swimmers. They catch small fish and insects in the water.
Why Loch Ruthven is Important for Grebes
Loch Ruthven has shallow, clear waters and plenty of plants around its edges. These conditions are ideal for Slavonian grebes. They use the plants to build their floating nests. The loch also has enough food for the adult birds and their chicks. This makes it a safe and successful place for them to reproduce.
Protecting Nature: The RSPB Reserve
The RSPB is a charity that works to protect birds and their habitats. They recognized how important Loch Ruthven is for Slavonian grebes. Because of this, they set up a nature reserve at the loch.
What Does the RSPB Do Here?
At the Loch Ruthven reserve, the RSPB helps to manage the land. They make sure the loch remains a safe place for the grebes. This might involve:
- Monitoring the bird population.
- Making sure the water quality is good.
- Protecting the nesting areas from disturbance.
- Educating visitors about the importance of the loch.
Their work helps ensure that these rare birds can continue to thrive at Loch Ruthven.
A Protected Wetland: Ramsar Site
Loch Ruthven has a special international status. It was named a Ramsar site on August 31, 1992. This is a big deal for the loch and its wildlife.
What is a Ramsar Site?
A Ramsar site is a wetland area that is considered very important globally. The Ramsar Convention is an international agreement. It aims to protect and wisely use wetlands around the world. Wetlands are areas like marshes, bogs, and lakes. They are crucial for many plants and animals.
Why is Loch Ruthven a Ramsar Site?
Loch Ruthven was chosen as a Ramsar site because of its importance for water birds. Specifically, its role as a breeding ground for the Slavonian grebe makes it globally significant. This designation helps to ensure that the loch receives protection and careful management for the future.
