Scarce ground-nesting birds in peril as wildfire sweeps through the Cairngorms for a third day

No smoke without fire - scene in the Cairngorms

                                           

THERE are fears for the fate of rare Capercaillies and other birds as wildfire continue to sweep through an area where they are known to nest in the Cairngorms in the Scottish Highlands.

The RSPB has temporarily closed the nature centre at its Loch Garden nature reserve, near Aviemore, as the fire burns for the third day in succession.

The society's rangers are supporting the Scottish Fire & Rescue Services as they continue to respond to the emergency.

The RSPB has also been allowing use of one of its drone to monitor the spread of the flames.

Birders, walkers and others are being urged to stay away from the area until the situation is fully under control.

* Photos: Scottish Fire & Rescue Service. 

                                              

Water being pumped from Loch Morlich