Wildlife

Red-Throated Diver Welfare and Scottish Loch Breeding

The red-throated diver is a spectacular breeding bird of Scottish Highland lochs that faces threats from disturbance, predation, and water-based recreation.

Key Facts

Around 1500 breeding pairs in Scotland on remote upland lochs
Requires clear, fish-rich lochs for breeding
Very sensitive to disturbance causing nest abandonment
Populations in some areas affected by fluctuating fish stocks
Protected under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act

Welfare Considerations

Red-throated diver welfare during breeding depends on freedom from disturbance at nest sites. Canoeists, anglers, and walkers approaching too close cause nest abandonment and chick desertion. The species is legally protected but enforcement at remote sites is challenging. Visitor education is the primary welfare tool.

What You Can Do

Keep at least 200 metres from any loch where divers may be breeding in spring and summer
Report red-throated diver breeding to RSPB Scotland
Follow Scottish Outdoor Access Code around sensitive nesting sites
Support RSPB and SNH diver monitoring programmes
Avoid launching boats near diver nesting areas during the breeding season