Description of the Reserve
Baron’s Haugh is an important community
nature reserve on the edge of Motherwell (Map Sheet 64 Grid ref : NS755548).
Managed since 1983 by the RSPB (present site manager – Nick Chambers) it comprises
107.3 hectares of richly varied habitats. An Information Warden, Ben Mitchell,
is now employed, his duties shared between the Reserve and the ajoining estate
of
Over 25,000 people visit the Reserve each year – birders, dog walkers and other recreationists. It is nationally important for its numbers of wintering Whooper swans and breeding Gadwall, is a well know site for passage waders and hosts an excellent bird spectacle at all times of year.
Everyone is invited to explore the pathways of the Reserve and visit the four hides that are always open and offer superb viewing of the open water area. Dogs may be off the lead, but should be controlled enough not to invade the Haugh water/marsh area. The main pathway follows the River Clyde which itself holds much interesting wildlife including Kingfishers and regularly seen Otters. Allow at least 2/3 hours for a leisurely circular walk. Following the River downstream provides a fine half-hour walk to Strathclyde Country Park.