We often say that Ruthven Falls is perfectly located when it comes to the views and nearby attractions, however the abundance of wildlife that calls the park and the surrounding area home is truly spectacular. From the comfort of your lodge or while out on a stroll, it is likely you will encounter a variety of the wildlife that Scotland has to offer.

Be sure to pack the binoculars!

Red Squirrels

Native to the island of Britain, the Eurasian Red Squirrel is one of the most iconic and beloved mammals living within our woodlands. Populations of these charismatic critters are sadly under threat due to deforestation, as well as competition for resources and territory caused by the introduction of the American Grey Squirrel. The addition of this non-native species has been disastrous for Red Squirrel populations, with only an estimated 287,000 living in Britain.

Organisations like the Scottish Wildlife Trust are putting in place initiatives to slow the decline of the species, with the intention that they can once again thrive in their native habitat.

Badgers

Another native to the British Isles is the Eurasian Badger, some of which are residents of Ruthven Falls. These nocturnal mustelids live in underground setts, which are made up of tunnels and chambers systems, where their “clan” of up to 9 badgers inhabit. Despite being nocturnal, their eyesight is poor meaning they rely mostly on their powerful sense of smell and hearing to navigate and locate food.

Their diet primarily consists of earthworms and insects however this can vary between seasons, such as Spring where they are known to dine on daffodils and tulips. Badgers are known to prey on small mammals, however this is limited due to their poor eyesight. Instead, they will opt to use their strong sense of smell and search for foraging sites.

Despite being a protected species, badgers still face numerous threats such as habitat destruction, illegal persecution and road traffic accidents, however their population continues to be widespread across Scotland.

European badger (Meles meles) in a grass in a woodland, Scotland

Foxes in Angus, Scotland

Foxes

Common in Scotland yet highly elusive, the gorgeous Red Fox is known for its bushy tail, beautiful red fur and its ability to adapt to any environment, whether it be rural, woodland or urban. Often emerging at dusk or dawn, foxes will leave their dens to hunt for small mammals, birds or insects.

Scotland, and the area around Ruthven Falls, provide the ideal environment for these wonderful creatures to thrive.

Deer

When you think of Scotland, it is likely that the iconic image of a majestic stag will be one of the first things that come to mind. Deer are an essential part of Scotland’s ecosystem, shaping plant communities with their grazing and dispersal of plant seeds.

Populations of deer in Scotland remain strong, however overpopulation has become an issue due to the removal of natural predators such as wolves, lynx and bears, thus resulting in overgrazing.

Deer can often be spotted taking a casual stroll across the vast, open field overlooked by our lodges – a welcome sight to those enjoying the view from their decking!

Deer in Scotland

A Beaver in a river, close up in Scotland

Beavers

Hunted to extinction in Scotland during the 16th century, Beavers have been successfully reintroduced into the rivers and streams of Perthshire and Angus after a 400 years absence. Since then, these engineering rodents have set about shaping the landscape in their own unique way, which has benefitted populations of otters, dragonflies, fish and various plant species.

Evidence of Beavers can be found along the River Isla where remains of gnawing on trees has been noted. Be sure to search for beavers dams in the rivers and streams around Ruthven Falls ad marvel at the engineering prowess of these fascinating creatures!

Birds

Bird watchers will be in for a treat throughout their stay at Ruthven Falls with a wide variety of birds roaming the grounds and the skies! Many species frequent the park throughout the year, including:

Pheasants
Eurasian Jays
Woodpeckers
Sand Kites
Tawny Owls
Robins
Oyster Catchers