Scotland's Big 5 campaign in quest for favourite

The Scotland’s Big 5 campaign has been launched by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and Visit Scotland.

The Big five are all high-profile species, widely associated with Scotland, with a broad geographical spread. They are the red deer, otter, red squirrel, golden eagle and common seal. 

Interestingly wild cat, capercaillie and pine marten all miss out. 

The campaign encourages people to enjoy the wider experience of exploring some of the places where the species can be found, and to take part in a web-based vote to discover the nation’s favourite wild animal, even if it’s not one of the Big 5.

Ian Jardine, SNH Chief Executive said: ‘Most people will be aware of the animals selected for the Scotland's Big 5 campaign, but many may not have seen them in their natural habitat.

‘We have chosen animals that most people, if they want, can see in many parts of Scotland at almost any time of year. In setting out to discover Scotland’s Big 5, we hope more people will come to enjoy and value Scotland’s rich and diverse wildlife and scenery.

‘In Scotland we have a good chance to see these distinctive animals in a wild setting – something that isn’t possible for many people in Europe today. We know that’s why many come to Scotland on holiday.’

All five species can be spotted in a number of locations across Scotland, including the two national parks and several national nature reserves. SNH has devised a Smart phone app – Scotland’s Big 5 – that provides information on how best to spot each of the Big 5 and where to find them.  Leaflets and online information are also available.

To vote in the poll about Scotland’s Big 5, go to www.snh.gov.uk/big5, take part via Twitter @SNH_Tweets #scotsbig5 or visit the Scottish Natural Heritage Facebook page.