New bird hide officially opens at Loch Leven nature reserve
The Phoenix Hide replaces the Mill Hide, which was burnt down last year
A new bird hide has been officially opened at Loch Leven National Nature Reserve.
The Phoenix Hide was built with help from a public fundraiser to replace the former building that was burnt down in 2021.
NatureScot chair Mike Cantlay and reserve manager Neil Mitchell were joined by the Kinross Beavers, as well as representatives from the local community and businesses, to cut the ribbon and officially open the new bird hide to the public on Friday, 6 May.
There was public outcry in February last year when the much-loved Mill Hide was completely destroyed in a fire.
A crowdfunding appeal to rebuild the hide raised almost £30,000 and the remainder has been funded by NatureScot, which manages much of the reserve.
Mr Cantlay said: “To see the new Phoenix Hide rise from the ashes has been wonderful, and it just would not have been possible without the incredible efforts of the local community, businesses and the wider public.
“The level of support has been truly heart-warming and demonstrates the importance of this special place for nature for the local community and beyond.
“As Scotland’s nature agency, our aim is to inspire many more people to value our natural world and I know that this beautiful new hide will play a vital role in doing that for generations to come.”
What can you see from the Phoenix Hide?
Loch Leven is NatureScot’s most visited national nature reserve, and the bird hide has always been one of the most visited parts of the reserve.
NatureScot’s Neil Mitchell, the reserve manager who oversaw the hide rebuild, said: “When the Mill Hide was destroyed last year we were all absolutely devastated. After the fire, what really came through was what a much-loved place it was for people near and far to come and connect with nature.
“We were determined to do all that we could to rebuild the hide and can’t express how grateful we are to the local community, businesses and visitors who contributed so generously to making it happen.
“The new building looks wonderful and I’m sure staff and locals alike are all looking forward to having this special place back again.
He added: "If you’re visiting in the next few months, you can look out for lots of fluffy young ducklings snacking on the rich insect and plant life of the loch, mute swans raising their cygnets, while herons, kingfishers and osprey can all be seen fishing too.”
The new hide has been designed with a more open back to discourage any anti-social behaviour and includes a new camera to better record any incidents.