Bemersyde Moss

Bemersyde Moss is a nature reserve run by the Scottish Wildlife Trust. It stands beside the River Tweed in the Scottish Borders. The land is a patchwork of marsh, willow scrub and open pools. This mix gives shelter and food to many kinds of plants and animals. The reserve is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest, recognised for its national importance. The reserve is worth visiting because it changes with the seasons. In spring and summer it becomes a busy bird reserve, with warblers and other songbirds filling the air. When the weather turns colder, flocks of wintering wildfowl arrive. Teal, shoveler, goldeneye and wigeon can be seen on the water. Otters live here all year, hunting along the banks and in the shallows. A visitor walks along simple paths that wind through the marshland. The willow scrub offers cover for small birds and insects. From the edges of the pools there are wide views over the reserve and the river beyond. The quiet atmosphere lets people watch wildlife without disturbance. Benches stand at good vantage points for longer observation.