South Tayside Goose Roosts facts for kids
Quick facts for kids South Tayside Goose Roosts |
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Carsebreck Loch, one of several lakes that make up the South Tayside Goose Roosts
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| Location | Tayside, Scotland |
| Nearest city | Perth |
| Area | 3.31 km2 (1.28 sq mi) |
| Established | 1993 |
| Governing body | Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) |
The South Tayside Goose Roosts is a special natural area in central Scotland, west of Perth. It is a wetland, which means it has lots of water, like lakes and marshy areas. This important place covers about 331 hectares, which is like 818 football fields! It has been protected since 1993 because it is a very important home for many birds.
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What is the South Tayside Goose Roosts?
This protected area is made up of three parts that are not connected but are all important. It includes seven freshwater lochs (Scottish lakes) and other wet places. One part even has a large raised bog, which is a type of wetland where peat (decayed plant material) builds up over thousands of years, making the ground spongy and wet.
Why is this Area Special?
The South Tayside Goose Roosts is super important for greylag geese and pink-footed geese. These birds travel long distances and use this area as a safe place to rest and feed, especially during the colder months. Because so many geese use this site, it is recognized internationally as a vital wetland.
International Protection
This area has several special protections:
- Ramsar Site: It is listed under the Ramsar Convention, an international agreement that protects wetlands around the world. This means it is recognized as a wetland of global importance.
- Special Protection Area (SPA): This is a European protection for wild birds and their habitats.
- Special Area of Conservation (SAC): This is another European protection for important habitats and species.
These protections help make sure the geese and other wildlife living here stay safe and healthy.
Important Nearby Areas
The South Tayside Goose Roosts is connected to three other protected places called Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs). These are areas in the UK that have special plants, animals, or geology.
- Carsebreck and Rhynd Lochs SSSI: This area includes Lower Rhynd, Upper Rhynd, and Carsebreck Loch. It also has the Shelforkie Moss, which is a raised bog.
- Drummond Lochs SSSI: This SSSI contains Drummond Pond and Bennybeg Pond.
- Dupplin Lakes SSSI: This area includes Dupplin Loch and Pitcairnie Loch.
All these connected areas work together to create a large, safe home for the geese and many other creatures that depend on these wetlands.
