740-0923-09-10_kite trail_Layout 1 10/03/2010 11:29 Page 1

these are marked on the map overleaf. map the on marked are these

of this leaflet. Have a wonderful time. wonderful a Have leaflet. this of

• Along the trail there are eight kite viewing areas - areas viewing kite eight are there trail the Along •

there are some useful contact details on the back the on details contact useful some are there

& Raptor Study Group. Study Raptor Galloway & If you have any questions or want to know more, know to want or questions any have you If the year the or searching for small creatures. small for searching or

carefully monitored by RSPB and the the and Scotland RSPB by monitored carefully as silage and hay cutting – they are picking out carrion out picking are they – cutting hay and silage as there are also popular with red squirrels throughout squirrels red with popular also are there

family will get the most out of a visit here. here. visit a of out most the get will family have nested here, in the wild, since 2003. They are They 2003. since wild, the in here, nested have • Watch out for kites following farming operations, such operations, farming following kites for out Watch • the hides at Ken-Dee Marshes reserve. The feeders The reserve. Marshes Ken-Dee at hides the

These birds are now well established in Galloway and Galloway in established well now are birds These for children, which makes sure the whole the sure makes which children, for

A good place to see woodland birds up close is at is close up birds woodland see to place good A see during their breeding season (April to July). to (April season breeding their during see

and September. and

into Galloway from other sites in the UK and Germany. and UK the in sites other from Galloway into

Kids’ Kite Quest Kite Kids’ special the for out look so, If

• Kites are here all year round, but they can be harder to harder be can they but round, year all here are Kites • damsel and dragonflies, active between April April between active dragonflies, and damsel

Between 2001 and 2005, 104 red kites were released were kites red 104 2005, and 2001 Between

trail with children? with trail nuthatches and willow tits. tits. willow and nuthatches

All these wet places are home to many amphibians, many to home are places wet these All keep a look out for them. for out look a keep

pied flycatchers, great spotted woodpeckers, spotted great flycatchers, pied

Otters are more elusive, and are a real thrill to see. to thrill real a are and elusive, more are Otters

• You can see kites anywhere along the trail, so always so trail, the along anywhere kites see can You •

exciting reintroduction programme. programme. reintroduction exciting Are you travelling the travelling you Are birds around, so keep your eyes and ears open for open ears and eyes your keep so around, birds

longer wings, forked tails, and are reddish-brown. reddish-brown. are and tails, forked wings, longer

landowners, raptor workers and farmers, launched an launched farmers, and workers raptor landowners,

breed and roost here. But they’re not the only only the not they’re But here. roost and breed

in springtime. springtime. in

• Kites are about the same size as buzzards, but have but buzzards, as size same the about are Kites •

government agencies, working in partnership with partnership in working agencies, government

Woodlands are great places for red kites, which kites, red for places great are Woodlands

about red kites. kites. red about look out for their spectacular courtship displays displays courtship spectacular their for out look

Kite-watching tips Kite-watching around for red kites in the UK. In 1989, the RSPB and RSPB the 1989, In UK. the in kites red for around

Woodland wildlife Woodland

Great crested grebes are also quite common; common; quite also are grebes crested Great opportunities for you to find out more out find to you for opportunities

huge growth of public interest in wildlife, things turned things wildlife, in interest public of growth huge

them offer good service, and many have many and service, good offer them

With the spread of more enlightened attitudes, and the and attitudes, enlightened more of spread the With

trapped, and taking care not to disturb nesting kites. nesting disturb to not care taking and trapped, birds such as lapwings and redshanks. and lapwings as such birds eat, shop and stay while you are here. All of All here. are you while stay and shop eat,

The kite’s return kite’s The

kites, letting us know if they find birds that are injured or injured are that birds find they if know us letting kites, are here throughout the year, along with wading with along year, the throughout here are This guide gives details of many places to places many of details gives guide This

poisoning. Many local people help to keep an eye on the on eye an keep to help people local Many poisoning. whilst mallards, goosanders, teals and tufted ducks tufted and teals goosanders, mallards, whilst

beautiful countryside here. here. countryside beautiful But sadly, some are still illegally killed, mostly by mostly killed, illegally still are some sadly, But swans, wigeons, goldeneyes and pintail ducks, pintail and goldeneyes wigeons, swans,

mid-Wales.

historical attractions, and of course the best of the of best the course of and attractions, historical Today, like all birds of prey, kites are protected by law. by protected are kites prey, of birds all like Today,

In winter, other wildfowl arrive including whooper including arrive wildfowl other winter, In

only a dozen or so kites left in undisturbed valleys in valleys undisturbed in left kites so or dozen a only

way, you’ll also discover a rich diversity of other wildlife, other of diversity rich a discover also you’ll way, Keeping vigilant Keeping

by taxidermists and egg collectors. By 1880, there were there 1880, By collectors. egg and taxidermists by

give you the best chance of seeing red kites. Along the Along kites. red seeing of chance best the you give parking and viewing facilities. viewing and parking

followed. As they became rarer, red kites were targeted were kites red rarer, became they As followed.

The trail offers a suggested route designed to designed route suggested a offers trail The between October and April. Both reserves have reserves Both April. and October between

birds of prey. Four hundred years of persecution of years hundred Four prey. of birds

National Trust for Scotland’s Threave Nature Reserve Nature Threave Scotland’s for Trust National

Galloway Kite Trail Kite Galloway

encouraging people to kill red kites and many other many and kites red kill to people encouraging

RSPB Ken-Dee Marshes nature reserve and the and reserve nature Marshes Ken-Dee RSPB

In the 16th century, laws were passed all over the UK the over all passed were laws century, 16th the In

escape the harsh Arctic winters. Look for them at them for Look winters. Arctic harsh the escape

Welcome to the to Welcome

Persecution Icelandic greylag geese. These birds come here to here come birds These geese. greylag Icelandic

winter roosting sites for Greenland white-fronted and white-fronted Greenland for sites roosting winter

Large parts of the loch are internationally important internationally are loch the of parts Large

accused of taking lambs and game. and lambs taking of accused Red kiteby Andrew Parkinson (rspb-images.com) Red kitebyMarkSisson(rspb-images.com) Red squirrel byNiallBenvie (rspb-images.com)

countryside they were not so popular and were wrongly were and popular so not were they countryside

incredible wildlife. incredible

the Victorian the in owever, H clean. streets the keep

Southern Scotland and are home to some some to home are and Scotland Southern

towns, where they fed on scraps and carrion, helping to helping carrion, and scraps on fed they where towns,

River Dee make up the largest freshwater body in body freshwater largest the up make Dee River

In the Middle Ages, kites were a common sight in many in sight common a were kites Ages, Middle the In

The open water and wetlands of Loch Ken and the and Ken Loch of wetlands and water open The

The rise and fall of the kite the of fall and rise The

Wetland wonders Wetland

were almost extinct in the UK. UK. the in extinct almost were

quickly reveal a diversity of life. of diversity a reveal quickly

to think that in the 20th century they century 20th the in that think to

the wetlands, woodlands and heath will heath and woodlands wetlands, the

this every year to see them. It’s incredible It’s them. see to year every this

treats to be had in Galloway. Exploring Galloway. in had be to treats

thousands of people travel to sites like sites to travel people of thousands

Red kites are just one of the wildlife the of one just are kites Red

make an awesome spectacle. Tens of Tens spectacle. awesome an make

Red kites are very social birds of prey and prey of birds social very are kites Red Galloway Kite Trail Kite Galloway

The kite’s story kite’s The Other wildlife on the on wildlife Other Kites were extinct in Scotland Scotland in extinct were Kites

Scotch argus Buzzard Peaceful Loch Ken

The Galloway Kite Trail

For more information: Red kite adventure www.gallowaykitetrail.com in the heart of Galloway RSPB Office, The Old School, , Castle Douglas DG7 3AP Tel: 01556 670464 RSPB South and West Scotland Regional Office, 10 Park Quadrant, G3 6BS Tel: 0141 331 0993 www.rspb.org.uk/scotland Public transport information Travelline Scotland 0871 2002233. D&G online – www.dumfries-and-galloway.co.uk/travel Mute swan by Sue Kennedy (rspb-images.com) by Sue Kennedy Mute swan Common buzzard by Steve Knell (rspb-images.com) Scotch argus butterfly by FLPA.com by butterfly argus Scotch Bike hire Loch Ken Holiday Park 01644 470282 e-mail: [email protected]

Historic Galloway Please note that The Galloway Kite Trail Partnership cannot be held responsible for any changes in the quality or Immediately south of the kite trail is the magnificent nature of any of the facilities listed around the trail. , managed by Historic Scotland and

situated in National Trust for Scotland’s idyllic Cover by Chris Gomersall (rspb-images.com). Map painting by John Threlfall Threave Nature Reserve. Dalry’s tranquil churchyard, Produced by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), a registered with its 16th Century aisle and nearby motte is charity: England and Wales no. 207076, Scotland no. SC037654 740-0923-09-10 Watch the skies! worth a visit, as is Bruce’s Stone overlooking This is a great place to see birds of prey. Red kites, Clatteringshaws Loch. The Galloway Kite Trail is the Meadows and grass verges buzzards, sparrowhawks, kestrels, goshawks and success of a strong partnership In summer, the meadows are full of butterflies, peregrines are around the loch throughout the year. From the Raiders Road you could also see the including a Galloway speciality: the Scotch argus, impressive Loch Stroan Viaduct, which carried the which is almost black in colour. Look for it along In spring, ospreys arrive from Africa. Hen harriers, old railway celebrated in John Buchan’s pre-war sheltered roadside verges in the summer sunshine. and more rarely merlins, can be seen in winter, novel, The 39 Steps. Parton is a picturesque stop foraging low over marshes and rough grasslands. with its churchyard being the burial site of eminent Any sunshine may also bring out reptiles including Ghostly-white barn owls are regulary seen. physicist, , a man idolised by slow worms, common lizards and adders. Look out for them in the early evening. Albert Einstein. a million voices for nature 740-0923-09-10_kite trail_Layout 1 10/03/2010 11:29 Page 2

1 The Magic Broomstick 141 King Street, Castle Douglas DG7 1DX Tel: 01556 504443 www.themagicbroomstick.co.uk Whether it’s something therapeutic or a quirky gift you want, there are alternative offers to suit most needs. For a change from your usual shopping, come in and look around. 2 The Thistle Inn The Galloway Kite Trail Main Street, Crossmichael, Castle Douglas DG7 3AU Tel: 01556 670203 A warm, friendly reception is always given to visitors to this village pub, with its open fire. Specialising in home-cooked cuisine, from a typical menu to very appetising Greek dishes.

3 Airds Farm B&B Crossmichael, Castle Douglas DG7 3BG Tel: 01556 670418 www.airds.com Trail route Overlooking Loch Ken and the picturesque village of Crossmichael. Let your stresses and cares disappear, as the tranquility of Airds offers a comfortable base (all year) for exploring Dumfries & Galloway.

4 Loch Ken Holiday park Parton, Castle Douglas DG7 3NE Tel: 01644 470282 Trail route [email protected] www.lochkenholidaypark.co.uk A quiet, rural camping and caravan park, situated magnificently on the shores of (April to September) Loch Ken. This peaceful haven, offers visitors many opportunities to walk, climb, cycle and birdwatch in the surroundings. There’s also a small convenience store. 5 Galloway Activity Centre Loch Ken, Castle Douglas DG7 3NQ Tel: 01644 420626 Other roads [email protected] www.lochken.co.uk In a friendly family atmosphere, this outdoor activity centre offers something for everyone from adrenalin junkies to people seeking relaxation. Activities both on and off the loch to suit all levels and ages. 6 The Ken Bridge Hotel Walk/path , Castle Douglas DG7 3PR Tel: 01644 420211 Clatteringshaws [email protected] www.kenbridgehotel.co.uk This idyllic riverside setting is a perfect place to stay. The restaurant Loch overlooks the River Ken and its wildlife, and offers excellent 6 locally-produced food, including a highly-praised Sunday carvery. 7 Parking 7 The CatStrand (Glenkens Community and Arts Trust) 9 High Street, New Galloway, Castle Douglas DG7 3RN Tel: 01644 420374 www.catstrand.com Year-round programme of events, including exhibitions, film, theatre, local arts and crafts, cafe, visitor information and free internet access. 8 Public Toilets (toilet facilities available 8 The Smithy tearoom and craft shop at some outlets) High Street, New Galloway, Castle Douglas DG7 3RN Raiders’ Road (tolled) Tel: 01644 420269 www.thesmithynewgalloway.com In a delightful courtyard setting overlooking the waterfall and burn, this is the perfect place for home-cooked light lunches or snacks, with Galloway Activity Galloway Kite tourist information and eclectic gifts close to hand. Open 10 am–5 pm. Centre Trail information 9 FCS Clatteringshaws Visitor Centre Clatteringshaws, New Galloway 5 Castle Douglas DG7 3SQ Tel: 01671 402420 Glenlaggan Roost Viewpoint Beautifully situated on the shores of Clatteringshaws Loch, enjoy Kite feeding dramatic views of the Forest Park and wild hills or learn about history and wildlife at the visitor centre and café. See video of nesting red kites. station

10 Mossdale shop 10 Mossdale, Castle Douglas DG7 2NF Tel: 01644 450281 Where to see A very welcoming grocery store. Pick up a walk leaflet or kids’ quiz and some refreshments, before setting off on the kites nearby walk or to admire the red kite sculpture. Where to see kites 4 11 Bellymack Hill Farm Kite feeding station Laurieston, Castle Douglas DG7 2PJ Tel: 01644 450202 • Parton Walk and Viewpoint Places to stay, www.bellymackhillfarm.co.uk Parking in layby by Loch Ken Holiday Park. 1 Red kite feeding at 2 pm. This is the place to see a circus of red kites Cross the road to reach the start of the eat or shop at very close range as they mass together in what can only be described trail path. Trail is 1 km to viewpoint. as a “feeding frenzy”. Viewpoint open 12–4 pm. • Roost Viewpoint at Glenlaggan 12 Barstobrick visitor centre Parking in layby 1.7 km north of Parton on Fellend, Ringford, Castle Douglas DG7 2AT Tel: 01557 820227 main road. Short walk to shoreline of Loch Ken, Home-cooked food produced on this farm is served in the via gate and some steps. View across Neilson’s Restaurant. You can find information here and enjoy loch to Airds Wood around sunset. pleasurable walks around the ponds or up to Neilson’s Monument. • Bennan Viewpoint 3 13 Meiklewood Farm House B&B Parking at Bennan Viewpoint car park (signposted). Ringford, Castle Douglas DG7 2AL Uphill walk (steep in places) to viewpoint is 500 m. Tel: 01557 820226 [email protected] • The Secret Cages With a farm nature trail, this is a great base to explore Galloway, just off the region’s main trunk road, or to unwind more locally. Home baking Parking at Bennan Viewpoint car park (signposted). 2 and evening meals available on request. Circular walk to cages via Bennan Viewpoint and return to car park is 2.5 km. Low level 14 National Trust for Scotland Threave Nature Reserve walk to cages from car park is 1.2 km. and Countryside Centre • Mossdale Walk Parking at Trail car park (take small road 11 Douglas Arms Hotel which passes red kite sculpture on left) 206 King Street, Castle Douglas DG7 1DB Tel: 01556 502231 next to kite sculpture. Path starts at old www.douglasarmshotel.com railway station house. Follow trail under bridge Modernised 18th century coaching inn in the heart of the region’s Food Town, a gateway to the natural and historical attractions in this area. Extensive selection of along disused railway. Circular walk is 2.5 km. malts, real ales and good food. • Kite Feeding Station – Bellymack Hill Southern Upland Way Centre Off the B795 road 500 m east of Laurieston. Follow farm drive to car park at the farm. 26 Main Street, St Johns Town of Dalry, DG7 3UW Feeding of red kites takes place at 2 pm daily. Tel: 01644 430015 www.southernuplandway.com Open from 12 noon–4 pm all year round. 14 1 Always on the pulse as the leading source of tourist information for The farm will charge for admission. Dumfries & Galloway. Situated on the route of the Southern Upland Way. NTS Threave • RSPB Ken-Dee Marshes nature reserve Nature West Holmhead Cottage Parking at Mains of Duchrae. 4.8 km nature Reserve Craig Farm, , Castle Douglas DG7 3QR trail to two viewing hides and a viewing platform. Tel: 01644 420636 www.craigfarm.co.uk Barstobrick Neilson’s This out-of-the-way, 250-year-old, self-catering cottage with cosy rooms is a • Neilson's Monument Visitor Monument peaceful haven, with a birchwood garden and great landscape and wildlife views. South of the all-year trail route, on the A762 Centre Galloway Holidays/Galloway Cycling Holidays road 1 mile north of Ringford. Parking at Barstobrick Visitor Centre. Uphill walk to Frenchwood, Abercromby Place, Castle Douglas DG7 1GA 12 Tel: 01556 502979 www.gallowayholidays.co.uk Neilson's Monument and viewpoint is 1 km. Whether it’s cycling, walking, or car touring breaks in Dumfries and Galloway, we will arrange accommodation, luggage transfer, cycles and minibus transportation to suit your needs. 13