Towering in the glen, the Scots pine is a truly stunning tree. It is one of only three native conifers, and our only native pine, and it’s the perfect home for iconic Scottish wildlife. Sadly, all we have left at MountainView is 3000 year old roots, uncovered from a peat bog during the construction of the path network.

The Caledonian forest is a priority habitat under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan and is home to rare species such as the creeping lady’s tresses and lesser twayblade orchids; the Scottish wood ant and Rannoch looper; and the capercaillie, crested tit and Scottish crossbill. Mammals include red squirrel, pine marten and Scottish wildcat.

Scots pine timber is one of the strongest softwoods available and is widely used in the construction industry and in joinery. It is used in the manufacture of telegraph poles, pit props, gate posts and fencing. The tree can also be tapped for resin to make turpentine. Other uses include rope made from the inner bark, tar from the roots and a dye from the cones. Dry cones can be used as kindling for fires.

In 2014, the Scots pine was voted the national tree of Scotland and Highland Titles are planting it across all our reserves to try and help re-establish this missing majestic masterpiece!