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Nature Reserves

17 January 2023

Protecting and celebrating nature in all its glory is at the heart of Lanarkshire’s many nature reserves. 

Created following the closure of the local steelworks in 1986, the ponds and wetlands of Gartcosh Local Nature Reserve are home to a wide range of wildlife, birds and amphibians, including water voles, dragonflies and Scotland's largest population of great crested newt. It is a peaceful place, perfect for escaping busy life to get closer to nature. A network of paths continues the link, originally forged by the steelworks, between Gartcosh and Glenboig villages. 

https://www.northlanarkshire.gov.uk/directory/local-nature-reserves/gartcosh-

Langlands Moss Local Nature Reserve in East Kilbride is an important and rare habitat - a lowland raised peat bog. A boardwalk, installed by local volunteers, allows you to cross the bog and admire its diverse wildlife and plant life. It also provides views across the Moss and the surrounding farmland. There are pretty woodland trails, a wildlife meadow and signposted pathways to nearby Calderglen Country Park if you fancy a longer walk. 

https://www.friendsoflanglandsmoss.org/

Close to the heart of Motherwell, Dalzell Estate and Baron's Haugh is a beautiful spot in which nature and history sit side by side. Look out for the Covenanters Oak, a mighty tree which offered shelter as far back as the 1800s; woodlands which are home to owls and great-spotted woodpeckers; and waterways which are home to visiting species such as sand martins and whooper swans, kingfishers and otters. 

https://www.dalzellandbaronshaugh.co.uk/

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