New Caerlaverock observatory brings wildlife up close for all
A unique new wildlife-watching experience has opened in Scotland this week at WWT Caerlaverock Wetland Centre.
The Sir Peter Scott Observatory is the latest in a long line of wildlife-watching innovations from WWT. From the two storey tower, visitors will see wild whooper swans up close as they circle before landing on the pond to feed.
The design is influenced by the ethos of WWT founder, Sir Peter Scott, who aimed to bring awe-inspiring nature up close for people.
The Observatory and its tower are easily accessible for those in wheelchairs or with limited mobility, in line with Scott’s ambition to enthral all people.
The hide was opened by Martin Spray CBE, Chief Executive of the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust. Speaking at the ceremony he said:
“People love nature, not because they’re told to, but because they experience it, in all its awe-inspiring beauty, up close. For over 65 years, WWT has been building wildlife hides with people in mind and the Sir Peter Scott Observatory draws on that wealth of experience. We hope it thrills and wows visitors to Caerlaverock for years to come.”
The observatory is open every day except Christmas day between 10am and 5pm. Throughout winter the wild whooper swans are fed in front of the observatory at 11am and 2pm daily.
The Sir Peter Scott Observatory was part-financed by the Scottish Government and the European Community, Dumfries and Galloway LEADER 2007-2013 Programme, with additional funding from many other generous organisations and individuals.
