We will spend the day on a journey into the Cairngorms observing wildlife and discussing the ecology of mountain areas. We will consider where animals, plants, and other wildlife are found, how they survive, their place in the wider ecology of the Cairngorms, their traditional uses and roles in culture and stories. The aim is to give participants confidence to identify and entertain when out with clients and develop understanding of the natural world. Ideas for engaging clients in the natural environment will be discussed. We will also cover what impacts on the mountain ecology and wider land use issues. All levels of knowledge are welcome!

A handout will be provided prior to the training.

We will be out on the hill all day, stopping and talking, so please bring suitable warm and waterproof clothing, snacks, lunch and drinks. A notebook and pencil, binoculars, and a compact camera/smart phone would be useful.

We will meet at Northern Cairngorms Coire Cas Car Park NH990060

https://maps.app.goo.gl/7hYuMazMXuGJDBtR6

The workshop will be delivered by Fiona Newcombe who has been working as an ecologist in the Scottish Highlands for over 25 years, including for RSPB Scotland, Deer Commission for Scotland, NatureScot, Roy Dennis Foundation and the Cairngorms National Park Authority. For the last 14 years she has freelanced as: an upland ecological surveyor; in the outdoor industry as an IML; and as a Tourist Guide, with an strong interest in the history of the Highlands. Fiona holds an BSc and MSc in Ecology and is a STGA Green Badge Guide for the Highlands and Islands. 

All bookings directly to Fiona via fjnewcombe@gmail.com who will send payment information to you. Fiona will need your CMS registration number upon booking. The workshop is subsidised by the BAIML Scotland region for BAIML members at £20 for the day. The cost for non-members is £50. The full amount is payable upon booking.

The CPD will be automatically added to you record after the event and you do not need to do this yourself. Please allow 2 weeks after the workshop for this to happen.