The Cairngorms was designated as a national Park in 2003. It is a large area of land which in addition to some human habitation and farmland, mostly comprises moorland, forest and high mountain plateaux. Five of the six highest mountains in Scotland are within the Cairngorms. The plateaux exceeds 1,000 metres above sea level and is arctic tundra in nature. It is an area rich in wildlife. In particular the forests are home to Capercaillie, Red Squirrel, Pine Marten, Crested Tit, Crossbill, while on the higher ground can be found Red Grouse, Ptarmigan, Snow Bunting, Dotterel and, of course, the iconic Mountain Hare.
© Chris Stuart Highland Photography
