10/03/2012
Euan McIlwraith discovers how once-opposing parties are coming together to address the future of Scotland's moorlands.
The iconic image of Scotland's heather clad moorlands with a stag gazing into the distance is often associated with how we market ourselves as a country. But those moorlands are both vulnerable and highly sought after by a variety of interests, from sporting estates to renewable energy schemes. Euan discovers how once opposing parties are coming together to address the future of Scotland's moorlands.
The Grampian coastline may not be the most obvious place for tourists to head to in Scotland, but it is home to a wealth of wildlife and appealing villages. Helen joined a group of tourism operators as they gathered more inside knowledge on the area.
Parts of the Morvern peninsula are home to some of the most rare plantlife in the UK, if not Europe. Mark learns about a new scheme aimed at preserving the plants and keeping the deer out.
Sticking with deer, a controversial cull of roe deer on Tullos Hill in Aberdeen is set to go ahead in order to accommodate a major woodland development. We hear why.
Mark takes a wander around the magical Rahoy Hills on Morvern, and is enthused by lichen clad trees...and mating frogs.
Plus, a new centre celebrating Scottish explorers in the oldest house in Perth, kiltmaking in Keith and a walk along the Bullers of Buchan.
And why starlings flock in formation.