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A wildfire has broken out at a nature reserve in the Cairngorms famed as a home for ospreys.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) received a number of calls about the blaze at Ryvoan Bothy on the southern boundary of the Loch Garten Nature Reserve in Abernethy at about 11:50.
They sent four fire engines and specialist ref Birds (RSPB) – which owns the site – said all staff working at the reserve had left their duties to attend the blaze
They said the fire is not yet a risk to the birds.
Ospreys are migratory birds and some fly more than 3,000 miles (4,828km) from west Africa to breed in Scotland.
In 1954, Loch Garten, north of Aviemore, had the first confirmed pair of breeding ospreys since the species went extinct in the UK in 1916 due to habitat loss and persecution.
Richard Graham
The charity is in the process of getting a private helicopter to assess the incident which will need to be approved by the SFRS.
A number of residents in nearby village, Glenmore, said they could see the plumes of smoke and hear sirens racing to the scene.
Group commander Raymond King said there were no reported casualties but advised residents in Aviemore, Glenmore and the surrounding areas to keep windows and doors closed.
He said: “If you are within this area and can see or smell smoke, please follow the same advice.
“While we want people to avoid the good weather, we ask that anyone in the Cairngorms National Park near to Aviemore and Glenmore avoid the area.
“This part of the Cairngorms National Park is popular with hillwalkers, and we ask that people remain vigilant while active firefighting continues.”
Wildfire risk ‘very high’
It comes as the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the Scottish Wildlife Forum have issued a wildfire warning for central Highlands, southern and eastern Scotland from Wednesday, lasting until next Monday.
Temperatures are expected to reach 28C on Wednesday around Fort William, with very dry weather forecast for the rest of the week especially in central and western areas.
The fire service’s wildfire tactical adviser, Kevin Dingwall, said that many people will be outdoors enjoying the weather this week and urged them to take “simple steps” to prevent fires from starting.
He said: “Hot, dry conditions increase the risk of wildfire across Scotland. Even if a warning is not in place where you live, we ask everyone to stay vigilant.
“Wildfires can destroy property, landscapes and wildlife. That’s why it’s so important that everyone takes extra care during these conditions.
“Avoid lighting outdoor fires or barbecues in affected areas, and remember that a single spark can cause significant damage. There is no such thing as a harmless fire.
“You can help by sharing wildfire warnings with your family, friends, and any visitors.”
