Promoting biodiversity

How we promote biodiversity

Biodiversity refers to all the different types of life on Earth and the places where they live. We are working to protect and restore biodiversity across the Highlands.

What we are doing

We are taking action to:

  • manage our land in ways that support nature
  • work with communities and partners to protect biodiversity
  • support Scotland’s goal to become nature-positive by 2030
  • help restore biodiversity by 2045

Read our Ecology Strategy and Action Plan

Local nature reserves

There is one local nature reserve in the Highlands:

  • Merkinch Local Nature Reserve

Highland Nature Biodiversity Action Plan

This plan outlines local actions to protect important habitats and species, following national and international priorities.

Read the Highland Nature Biodiversity Action Plan

Our biodiversity duty

All public bodies in Scotland are required to help conserve biodiversity. We report on our actions every three years.

Read our biodiversity duty reports

Get involved

We encourage everyone to take action for nature. You can:

  • Join local groups
  • Create a wildlife-friendly garden
  • Learn more about local species and habitats

Visit the Highland Environment Forum to find out more.

Read the Scottish Pollinator Strategy

Biological data and habitat mapping

We do not hold ecological data. You can find this information from:

  • Highland Biological Recording Group – species data (excluding birds and plants)
  • NatureScot
  • RSPB
  • Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland
  • NBN Atlas Scotland

Read about protected wildlife in the Highlands

Page last modified: 12 January 2026