Duration: 7-8 hours

Ever dreamed of being a Woodland Ranger for the day but just never had the opportunity? Now is the time for your dream to become a reality.

Join us in the beautiful surroundings of Mauldsheugh Woodland in the South of Scotland with one of Go Wild Scotland’s rangers where you will experience a hands-on session to make the most of your time in nature.

Your day will start with a walk around this beautiful nature reserve where you will learn about the trees, plants and the beautiful wildlife that inhabit our community woodland from our knowledgeable ranger. We will gift you a nature journal to jot down everything you see and learn throughout your day.

You will then have lots of opportunities to get involved. Activities can range from topping up the bird feeders, checking the ponds, surveying the wildlife and recording what you see on the day, working with our volunteers on special projects, helping to plant trees or being creative to engage our community. You help us shape your time with us so you get the most out of your experience.

Our wildlife ranger will take you on a guided walk along the banks of the Ettrick Water to discover the wonderful world of the riverbank. A gentle two and a half mile stroll offering an opportunity to see and learn about the wildlife and plant life along the banks of the Ettrick Water before it joins the mighty River Tweed a couple of miles downstream.

Along the way we’ll be looking out for kingfishers and herons and maybe a glimpse of the elusive otters, eagles and osprey if we are very lucky. There’s a stop for a delicious lunch, a visit to a salmon viewing centre and the golden eagle information point to learn about the local reintroduction project.

On heading back to Mauldsheugh woodland, you will continue with wildlife conservation activities, which can include a nature craft depending on numbers.

You will receive a certificate on completion of your day with us.

By booking this activity, you are supporting Go Wild Scotland’s community nature education programmes.

If you have any specific requests to make the most of your day as a ranger with us, please send us an email.

Includes

Riverside walk Total distance about 3.75km Wildlife viewing Learn about river ecology Bird watching Golden Eagle information centre visit Lunch Salmon viewing centre visit Salmon leap (in season) Nature journalling Completion certificate

# Included

Use of binoculars

Excluded

Transport - this is a self-drive activity: transport can be arranged separately if required.

Important to Know

The total walking distance is about 3.75 km. There are toilets at the Waterwheel Cafe, where we will stop half way. The nearest public toilets to Mauldsheugh Wood are a five minute, (0.2 mile) walk at Selkirk Leisure Centre. There are also toilets in the town centre, a 12 minute (0.6 mile) walk.

Meeting Point

The ranger will meet you at the Selkirk Leisure Centre car park, on the path next to the Ettrick River.