An Analysis Of The Existing Ecosystems In Scotland and Irvine.

Feb 3, 2021
2 min read

Small Heath Butterfly (Image taken from: https://butterfly-conservation.org/butterflies/small-heath)

The State of Nature Scotland 2019 report shows that fresh water pollution in the country has reduced in recent decades, and agricultural productivity, along with land management intensification and the decline of farmland nature, is on the increase.

The average Scottish temperature has increased by nearly 1°C, with widespread impacts on nature already evident, and although their negative affects remain, legislation has caused a significant reduction in some harmful pollutants.

The demand for housing in our growing population has resulted in thousands of hectares being built upon (habitats such as farmlands, woodlands and wetlands) each year, however woodland cover has increased, and new wetlands have been formed. Scotland, with 19% woodland cover, is one of the most heavily deforested countries in Europe.

Common Pipistrelle Bat

(Image Taken From: https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-explorer/mammals/common-pipistrelle)

Our Site:

Due to the ongoing pandemic, visiting our site hasn't been a possibility. Through the research carried out by the team this enabled us to create a nature profile on the wildlife that exists within the area.

Findings from the Scottish Wildlife Trust present that wildlife in Shewalton Wood, Irvine include farmland birds and birds of prey, foxes, roe deer, bats, reptiles and amphibians. To see adders and amphibians, the best time of year to visit is spring, for insects, summer, for flocks of birds, autumn/winter, and for mammals any time of year. There is a three-mile-long path within the reserve.

Birds present in Shewalton Wood:

· Reed Bunting

· Kestrel

· Grey Partridge

· Wren

· Willow Warbler

· Swallow

· Song Thrush

· Snipe

· Skylark