Cathkin Marsh Nature Reserve

Cathkin Marsh is a small nature reserve managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust. It comprises an area of fen and marshy grassland that bursts into colour with wildflowers during the spring and summer months.

A pond within the reserve attracts a variety of waterfowl, including teals, mallards, mute swans, moorhens, coots, and little grebes. Both Canada geese and greylag geese breed here, and herons are often seen patiently waiting for fish. Among the reeds, keep an eye out for snipes, reed buntings, and the more elusive water rails and jack snipes. During the summer, swallows can be seen swooping low over the water to catch insects.

In the marshes, you may spot meadow pipits, bullfinches, grasshopper warblers, willow warblers, and sedge warblers, while yellowhammers, stonechats, and wheatears are often found in the surrounding grassland. Chaffinches, wrens, blue tits, and great tits are also regular visitors, and kestrels and buzzards can be seen soaring overhead. In winter, short-eared owls occasionally make an appearance.

A bird hide overlooking the pond offers excellent views of the wildlife without causing disturbance. Paths run throughout the reserve, and as the ground in the marsh can be quite soft, it’s best to stick to these routes.
There is space for two cars to park opposite the reserve entrance. Access is via a wooden gate and a hedged track leading into the reserve.

Please note, well-behaved dogs are welcome on the reserve, but must be kept under effective control.