Lochaber Loch facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lochaber loch |
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Lochaber boathouse and jetty
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 Lochaber loch
Location in Dumfries and Galloway
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| Location | Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland |
| Coordinates | 55°00′58″N 3°41′21″W / 55.016200°N 3.689200°W |
| Type | freshwater loch |
| Primary outflows | Kirkgunzeon Lane |
| Basin countries | Scotland |
| Max. length | 0.5 mi (0.80 km) |
| Max. width | 0.25 mi (0.40 km) |
| Surface area | 19.9 ha (49 acres) |
| Average depth | 20.5 ft (6.2 m) |
| Max. depth | 55 ft (17 m) |
| Water volume | 47,000,000 cu ft (1,300,000 m3) |
| Shore length1 | 2.2 km (1.4 mi) |
| Surface elevation | 91 m (299 ft) |
| Islands | 0 |
| 1 Shore length is not a well-defined measure. | |
Lochaber Loch is a lovely freshwater loch (that's a Scottish word for lake!). It's found among steep hills in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland. This small lake is about 4.5 mi (7.2 km) west of the town of Dumfries. It's a great spot to enjoy nature and see some amazing birds.
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About Lochaber Loch
Lochaber Loch has a shape that's a bit like a triangle. It stretches for about 0.5 mi (0.80 km) long. At its widest point, it measures around 0.25 mi (0.40 km) across.
How Deep is the Loch?
The average depth of Lochaber Loch is about 20.5 ft (6.2 m). But in its deepest spot, it goes down to 55 ft (17 m)! That's like stacking more than nine tall people on top of each other.
Early Surveys of the Loch
Scientists have been studying Lochaber Loch for a long time. In 1905, two researchers named James Murray and L.W. Collett carefully measured the loch. They were part of a big project led by Sir John Murray. This project aimed to map and understand all the freshwater lochs in Scotland.
Wildlife at the Loch
Lochaber Loch is a fantastic place for birdwatching! Many different kinds of birds live here or visit the loch.
Birds You Might See
You can often spot beautiful Swans gliding gracefully on the water. Look out for great crested grebes too. These birds are known for their fancy head feathers and interesting courtship dances. If you're lucky, you might even see an osprey. Ospreys are large birds of prey that hunt fish.
Bird Hide for Viewing
To help people watch the birds without disturbing them, there's a special bird hide right by the water's edge. It's a quiet spot where you can observe the wildlife up close.
Mabie Forest and the Loch
Lochaber Loch is located within the beautiful Mabie Forest. This forest is a popular place for outdoor activities.
Who Manages the Forest?
The Mabie Forest, including the area around Lochaber Loch, is looked after by the Forestry Commission. They work to manage the forest for both nature and people to enjoy.
