Black Grouse Watch - Sunday 12th April 2026
The SOC in partnership with the MOD are conducting a Black Grouse watch
Booking: Please fill out the online booking form.
Cost: This event is free
Date: Sunday 12th April 2026
Time: Between 0600-1100hrs (but you are free to leave earlier)
Leader: Lottie Birch
Where: Garelochhead Training Area
Parking at: NS257 904. What3Words: select.smug.conquests
Watch out for potholes, and please note that there will be ongoing military training across the estate.
It is a very short walk from the carpark to the viewing point for the Black Grouse lek.
The males gather on an artificial lawn that is part of the MOD rifle range, and are most active around sunrise, which is at 06:20.
After watching the Black Grouse, we will walk along the Yankee Road, which is part of the Three Lochs Way, and then retrace our steps.
Transport & Parking: It is not possible to reach Garelochhead by public transport so early in the morning. Car sharing is encouraged. There is plenty of free parking at the meeting place.
Terrain: Level gravel and tarmac paths, with reasonably gentle inclines.
Optics: Binoculars are essential and a telescope would definitely be useful.
Footwear and Clothing: Sturdy boots and warm, waterproof clothing. It is advisable to check the weather forecast beforehand.
Additional Information: You may want to bring a warm drink and a snack.
There are no toilets on the site. The nearest public toilets are located at Balloch Bus Station.
Booking: Please fill out the online booking form.
Cost: This event is free
Date: Sunday 12th April 2026
Time: Between 0600-1100hrs (but you are free to leave earlier)
Leader: Lottie Birch
Where: Garelochhead Training Area
Parking at: NS257 904. What3Words: select.smug.conquests
Watch out for potholes, and please note that there will be ongoing military training across the estate.
It is a very short walk from the carpark to the viewing point for the Black Grouse lek.
The males gather on an artificial lawn that is part of the MOD rifle range, and are most active around sunrise, which is at 06:20.
After watching the Black Grouse, we will walk along the Yankee Road, which is part of the Three Lochs Way, and then retrace our steps.
Transport & Parking: It is not possible to reach Garelochhead by public transport so early in the morning. Car sharing is encouraged. There is plenty of free parking at the meeting place.
Terrain: Level gravel and tarmac paths, with reasonably gentle inclines.
Optics: Binoculars are essential and a telescope would definitely be useful.
Footwear and Clothing: Sturdy boots and warm, waterproof clothing. It is advisable to check the weather forecast beforehand.
Additional Information: You may want to bring a warm drink and a snack.
There are no toilets on the site. The nearest public toilets are located at Balloch Bus Station.
Please note:
Participants are reminded that the Club, its branches and individual leaders of outings cannot accept responsibility for any injury suffered by individuals taking part in these outings, or any loss or damage to their property.
Participants are reminded that the Club, its branches and individual leaders of outings cannot accept responsibility for any injury suffered by individuals taking part in these outings, or any loss or damage to their property.