Celebrating North East Scotland's wild mammals

Autumn is a crucial time of year for hedgehogs as the hibernation period approaches. Temperatures start to plunge, and natural food sources become scarce at a time when hedgehogs need to prepare to survive for what can be months without food and water during hibernation. It takes many weeks of preparation to build up fat…

This is the first in a series of planned articles by local zoologist, Annie Lamb, looking at what our mammals are up through the year. Check back here for future articles… Mammals in general are affected by the lengthening period of darkness in August and September. Not only does dusk come earlier, but the rate…

by Jack Hudson The bat walk at Haddo House was incredibly interesting, educational and entertaining. We met at 8pm, and with sundown expected at 8.50 we had time to explore before it got dark and bats started leaving their roosts. Aileen started off the walk by equipping us all with and explaining the use of…

by Nick Littlewood Everyone likes a league table – but here’s one you won’t see anywhere else; the top ten of North East Scotland’s mammals, ranked by number of records in 2024. 1 Red Squirrel 2788 2 Roe Deer 819 3 Pine Marten 420 4 Rabbit 367 5 Mole 225 6 Wood Mouse 222 7 …
In late April, driving through Whiterashes towards Aberdeen, I noticed a roadkill animal on the other side of the road. At a quick glance, it resembled a Polecat. What does one do in such a situation? Throw it in the car, of course! So, following a bit of rush-hour traffic dodging, the animal was secured…

The Beavers are back. Around 400 years after the last Beavers were lost from the Cairngorms, Beavers are once again building lodges in the wetlands, rivers and lochs within the Spey catchment. On 20 September 2024, North East Scotland Mammal Network was lucky enough to be hosted by Beaver Project Manager, Jonathan Willet, for an…

By Kenneth Hillock, 23 October 2024 Securing your wildlife camera needn’t be costly. Here we show you everything you need for a low cost alternative. (Just remember that these are a deterrent, and no lock is fool proof, your camera is your responsibility). Materials: (Approx cost £17 for 6 securing straps) 5mm Steel wire (20m)…