RSPB Scotland have been scaling the heights of Scotland’s highest ground, to survey two species of rare bird; the dotterel, a wading bird and the snow-bunting, a seed eating bird.
As these two species only breed on the heights mountain tops they are lightly to be most affected by climate change. Species which are already found in the highest, coolest conditions, may have nowhere else left to go in the UK, as many species adapt to climate change by moving towards cooler conditions in the north and in some cases further uphill.
Andy Douse, SNH Senior Ornithologist, said: "I'd encourage walkers to report any sightings of these mountain birds to help with this important survey. Dotterel and snow bunting are both fascinating birds, but we are far from having a complete picture of how they're faring in Scotland in recent years. This survey, as well as help from the public, should make all the difference."
Sightings including details of which species, how many, along with the date and location (including grid reference, if possible) can be emailed to dotterel@rspb.org.uk.