River Tay facts for kids
Quick facts for kids River Tay |
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Looking upstream (north) along the Tay from the centre of Perth
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| Other name(s) | Tatha |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Constituent country | Scotland |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Allt Coire Laoigh Ben Lui, Scottish Highlands, UK 720 m (2,360 ft) 56°23′07″N 4°47′36″W / 56.38528°N 4.79333°W |
| River mouth | Firth of Tay, North Sea Between Perth, Scotland and Dundee, Scotland, UK 0 m (0 ft) 56°21′18″N 3°17′54″W / 56.35500°N 3.29833°W |
| Length | 188 km (117 mi) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 4,970 km2 (1,920 sq mi) |
| Tributaries |
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The River Tay is the longest river in Scotland. It is also the seventh-longest river in the entire United Kingdom. The Tay starts its journey high up in the mountains of western Scotland. It flows for about 188 kilometers (117 miles) before reaching the sea.
The River Tay is special because it carries more water than any other river in the UK. This means it has a very large catchment area, which is the land where all the rain and water eventually flow into the river. The Tay's catchment area is about 4,970 square kilometers (1,919 square miles).
Contents
Journey of the River Tay
The River Tay begins its adventure on the slopes of a mountain called Ben Lui in the Scottish Highlands. Here, it starts as a small stream named Allt Coire Laoigh. From there, it flows east, passing through several beautiful lochs (lakes).
From Mountains to Lochs
As the river travels, it goes through Loch Dochart and Loch Iubhair. These lochs help to store water and regulate the river's flow. The Tay then enters the largest loch on its path, Loch Tay. This big lake is a significant part of the river system.
Through Strathtay and Perth
After leaving Loch Tay, the river continues its journey east through an area known as Strathtay. A "strath" is a wide river valley, and this one is very scenic. The river then turns southeast and flows through the city of Perth.
Reaching the Sea
Near Perth, the River Tay becomes "tidal." This means its water level is affected by the ocean's tides, rising and falling with them. Finally, the Tay reaches its mouth at the Firth of Tay. A "firth" is a long, narrow inlet of the sea. The Firth of Tay opens into the North Sea, south of the city of Dundee.
Wildlife of the Tay
The River Tay and its surrounding areas are home to many different kinds of wildlife. The clean waters and varied habitats support a rich ecosystem.
Fish and Birds
Many types of fish live in the Tay, including Atlantic salmon. Salmon are famous for swimming upstream to lay their eggs. The river also attracts many birds, such as osprey and kingfisher, who hunt for fish. You might also spot otters playing in the water.
Beavers in the Tay
One exciting animal that has returned to the Tay area is the beaver. Beavers are known for building dams and lodges, which can create new wetlands and help other wildlife. They were once extinct in Scotland but have been reintroduced and are now thriving in the Tay catchment.
Tributaries of the Tay
Many smaller rivers flow into the River Tay, adding to its size and power. These are called "tributaries."
Major Tributaries
On the left side of the Tay, as it flows towards the sea, you'll find rivers like the River Lyon, the River Tummel, and the River Isla. On the right side, important tributaries include the River Almond, the River Earn, and the River Braan. All these rivers collect water from their own areas and bring it to the Tay.
Images for kids
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Catchment of the River Tay within Scotland.
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Catchment of the River Tay.
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Tributaries of the River Tay.
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Tayside beaver with her kit. Courtesy of Ray Scott 2010.
See also
In Spanish: Río Tay para niños
