By Ross Macleod, Head of Policy (Scotland) Following the success of the guided walks over different grouse moors in early April, we were very pleased to organise a similar visit for Scottish Government Wildlife Management and Natural Environment Bill team… Read More »Scottish Government visit to Burncastle Grouse Moor
By Ross Macleod, Head of Policy (Scotland) Update – 8 May 2026: The Scottish Parliament election has now concluded, with the SNP emerging once again as the largest party at Holyrood but without securing an overall majority. As a result,… Read More »What do the Scottish Parliament election manifestoes offer for rural Scotland?
Written by Fiona Torrance, Farmland Biodiversity Advisor With 70% of Scotland’s land used for agricultural purposes, support for farmers is essential if society is to address the biodiversity crisis. Through careful management of farmland habitats and adopting nature-friendly practices, research… Read More »Specialist Advice Plans: a win-win for biodiversity and farmers
GWCT Scotland is inviting supporters and interested members of the public to join them for guided walks over a select number of Scottish grouse moors in April 2026. This is a unique opportunity to enjoy privileged access to some of… Read More »Experience magical breeding birds on a GWCT Scotland Moor Walk
By Felix Meister, D.Phil., Senior Advisor Scotland GWCT Scotland hosted another series of Pie & Pint evenings across Scotland in the second half of February 2026, with locations in Dumfriesshire, Scottish Borders, Angus, Banffshire and Strathspey. We are much obliged… Read More »GWCT Scotland builds new relationships at Pie & Pint evenings
By Felix Meister, D.Phil., Senior Advisor Scotland On Thursday 29 January, Scottish Parliament agreed to pass the Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill, following two days of debate about the final amendments to the Bill. Among the amendments, no 43, introduced by… Read More »Important amendment to muirburn legislation
By Felix Meister, D.Phil., Advisor Scotland On Monday 26 January 2026, GWCT Scotland sent an open letter to the Scottish Minister of Agriculture and Connectivity, Jim Fairlie MSP, which sets out our views on muirburn licensing and peatland management in… Read More »GWCT Scotland sends open letter to Minister
Written by Fiona Torrance, Farmland Biodiversity Advisor, GWCT Scotland This year, the Big Farmland Bird Count (BFBC) takes place between 6-22 February, and we’re hoping that it’s the best turnout yet! Each year, the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust run… Read More »Improve your bird ID with our free workshops!
By Felix Meister, D.Phil., Advisor Scotland NatureScot has issued new General Licences for 2026, which are in effect from 1 January to 31 December 2026. Wildlife managers operating under General Licences are required to understand the current licences and comply… Read More »General Licences 2026
Save the Date: 6 – 22 February 2026 The national annual census of farmland birds, run by the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) and supported by NFU Scotland, is returning in February next year and has moved to a new digital platform making it even easier than… Read More »Big Farmland Bird Count 2026: New digital platform makes counting easier