UK Wildlife

Red-throated Diver Upland Loch Breeder

The red-throated diver breeds on remote Scottish upland lochs with haunting wailing calls, dependent on undisturbed, fish-rich upland water bodies and commuting to the sea to feed.

Key Facts

Red-throated divers commute up to 30km from breeding lochs to coastal feeding areas
UK breeding population around 1,300 pairs, mainly in Scottish Highlands and Islands
Distinguished by red throat patch and upward-angled bill
Breeds on tiny lochs unsuitable for fish - commutes to larger waters to feed
One of earliest signs of spring in Scottish Highlands with their evocative calls

Welfare Considerations

Red-throated diver welfare depends on undisturbed upland lochs for nesting and productive coastal waters for feeding. Wind farm development near breeding lochs requires careful assessment. Lead poisoning from fishing weights can affect them.

What You Can Do

Support undisturbed upland access codes during red-throated diver breeding season
Advocate for careful wind farm siting that avoids key diver breeding areas
Record red-throated diver through upland bird surveys to contribute to monitoring