Ranger’s Diary

July 2010

The change in month seems to have brought with it a change in the weather, with some much needed rain falling in the glen; more rain in just a few days than in the entire month of june in fact -something not unrecognised by the holidaymakers  starting to arrive in greater numbers now the school summer holidays are upon us!

Yet the weather seems to lend the mountains an air of moody magnificence, cloaking the highest peaks  in mystery, offering only tantalising glimpses through breaks in the cloud.

The rain has certainly helped the vegetation of Glencoe, which is now, in high summer, carpeting the hillsides in thick swathes. Wild flowers are everywhere, particularly on the lime-rich slopes of Meall Mor. Orchids, saxifrage, and mountain avens, to name but a few, are all out in abundance. So too is the iconic Scottish thistle and the prolific ling heather, which is just starting to cover the glen with its magnificent purple flowers.

During sunnier spells many butterflies come out to feed on these flowers, with fritillaries, green-veined whites, and scotch argus' all to to be seen. Golden ringed dragonflys too, can easily be spotted flying in the lower parts of the glen - at nearly 10cm long these beautiful insects are difficult to miss!

Higher up, on the peaks and ridges towering above the glen, are Ptarmigans,  changed now into their brown summer plumage. Higher still, soaring on the warm summer thermals, Buzzards scan the ground for small mammals with which to feed their young.

Throughout the glen stags can still be seen, although fewer of them as they move up to higher elevations in the warmer weather (and to escape the midges which will harass them during any spell of calmer weather!). Many stags have now almost fully regrown their antlers, but are still 'in velvet' and it is now, looking healthy and well-fed, that they seem to be truly worthy of their title, 'monarch of the glen'. Soon the antlers will harden, the velvet will drop off, and the stags will start to disperse in preparation for the coming rut.

That's about all for now, but just a quick reminder that we've got all sorts of activities on over the summer, from guided walks for all abilities, to safaris where you can learn all about the fascinating story of Glencoe, and kids events to help you out in the holidays! Click on the 'Whats On' section on the toolbar.

If you've enjoyed the glen, or wish to post a comment, don't forget the visitor book, found on the home page drop-down menu.