A new initiative aims to show Highland nature lovers that they do not have to visit the Amazon to experience a rainforest – because there is one right on their doorstep.
Two conservation charities have joined forces to share the secrets of one of the UK’s richest and most mysterious habitats – the Celtic Rainforest.
The National Trust for Scotland and Plantlife Scotland are holding an event at Balmacara in Wester Ross which will explore the flora that thrives in the country’s damp, ancient forests.
Events including guided walks and storytelling are planned for the launch of a new Plantlife Scotland leaflet exploring the important plant area on Tuesday, February 21.
Leaving from Balmacara Square, visitors will be able to explore the National Trust for Scotland’s Coille Mhór, a woodland full of native species on the west coast.
Gavin Skipper, National Trust for Scotland ranger at Balmacara estate, said: “You do not have to travel to Brazil to experience a rainforest.
“There are amazing examples of the Celtic Rainforest on Scotland’s West Coast. They are teeming with life and just as fascinating.
“We hope that this initiative highlights these beautiful habitats to more people and encourages them out to explore.”
Polly Phillpot, Plantlife Scotland outreach officer, said: “Plantlife is delighted to be working with the National Trust for Scotland in welcoming people to enjoy the mysterious and magical world of Scotland’s unique Celtic Rainforests.
“We hope that the guided walks and leaflet we’re launching will attract an increasing amount of people to discover the hidden gems of the Celtic Rainforests; small plants such as the tree lungwort lichen or the delicate prickly featherwort – a species of liverwort.
“Many of the lichens, mosses and liverworts that are found in these rainforests are very rare in Europe, and some are globally important.”