Gartcosh Local Nature Reserve

Gartcosh Local Nature Reserve is one of the new Dragonfly Hotspots established in Scotland in 2014. It is owned and managed by North Lanarkshire Council. Over twenty ponds can be found in meadows throughout the reserve and dragonflies can be easily spotted nearby.

Opening times, entry costs, facilities and directions

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Things to see

Gartcosh Local Nature Reserve was established as a habitat for amphibians – most notably the Great Crested Newt – as part of the development of the Gartcosh Strategic Investment Site. Twenty four ponds of varying size and shape were created and amphibians were moved from the development site to the reserve over a period of years. These ponds have now become a haven for wildlife – not only for amphibians but also dragonflies and other invertebrates such as butterflies.

Top species

Four-spotted Chaser

Seasonal Highlights

The Four-spotted Chasers can be seen on the wing from late May to early August. They hunt over the wild flower meadows surrounding the ponds and the males can be very territorial. On cool days, they can be found roosting on pondside vegetation. The earliest emerging species are Large Red Damselflies and Common Hawkers can be seen into September.