Catkins

After graduating university, we wanted to contribute to nature restoration across Scotland. We had a niche set of knowledge and a lot of enthusiasm. But where to start? Fortunately, an opportunity arose to survey the montane willow populations of Glen Lochay Estate...

In our first summer, we recorded and mapped over 1100 montane willows in Glen Lochay Estate, establishing it as one of the most important sites in Scotland. We have since delivered a range of projects for organisations including the James Hutton Institute, Woodland Trust Scotland & Forestry and Land Scotland.

Who we are

Julia

I am a dedicated tree-enthusiast and botanist with experience in upland plant ID, environmental history, data analysis and conservation. I have published articles on mountain woodland in Reforesting Scotland, The Mountain Woodland Action Group bulletin and presented a short talk at the BSBI conference in November 2023 on the potential expansion of mountain woodland in Scotland.

I am starting a part-time PhD at University of St Andrews in September 2025. I am currently fixated with lichens.

Innes

I care deeply about the conservation of Scotland's key habitats and species. I have experience in machair and upland plant ID, and a keen interest in Scotland's small, yet vital mammal population. Having graduated from St Andrews with MA Geography, I also have skills in GIS and data analysis.

An ideal morning sees us surveying red squirrels or otters alongside a flask of hot chocolate.

Gallery

Here are some photographs of our recent projects

Catkins

Who we are

Julia

Innes

Gallery

Catkin Ecology