Watching wildlife can be a rewarding experience and no one wishes any harm to come to you or the wildlife so here are a few words of advice.

Walking- always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code

• Plan ahead and follow any signs
• Take your litter home
• Keep dogs under control
• Leave gates as you find them

Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the conditions.

If you are going into the hills tell someone or leave a note saying where you are going and when you expect to be back.

Use the Hillphone service(01770302363) for information on any areas to avoid during the deerstalking season(August to October).

In spring avoid walking above the high tide line on shingle beaches as many birds nest there,

disturbance at or near the nests of birds is a criminal offence.

Parking - try to use the many car parks available, but if you do stop on the road be aware of other road users and move clear of bends in the road.

Flowers - many are beautiful, but please don’t pick them, many are protected.

Animals - good binoculars make viewing animals more enjoyable and enable good views without getting too close. Some animals are used to humans but they are wild so can feel threatened if people get too close.

Please don’t feed animals as this can lead to some becoming very tame and at risk from less well meaning people, getting knocked down or becoming a nuisance.

Young/Injured animals- mothers often leave their young unattended for a while so if you find a young animal(including lambs) apparently abandoned its mother is probably away feeding, so it is best to leave well alone. Don’t touch the young or the mother may reject it once she smells human scent.

If you find any injured animal contact

Brodick Country Park Rangers at Brodick Castle 01770 302462 for advice

If you feel a wildlife crime has been committed inform the local wildlife crime officer,  telephone 01770 302574 .

Scottish Outdoor Access Code - Scottish Natural Heritage leaflet available from www.outdooraccess-scotland.com/outdoors-responsibly/access-code-and-advice/soac/