The Loup

Lake, Pool, Pond, Freshwater Marsh in Selkirkshire

Scotland

The Loup

Track over Howford Hill A waymarked route. This section has seen little recent use by agricultural vehicles. — Track over Howford Hill Credit: Richard Webb

The Loup, located in Selkirkshire, is a picturesque freshwater marsh that boasts a unique ecosystem and stunning natural beauty. Spanning over an area of approximately 1.5 hectares, it is a small but significant feature of the local landscape.

Surrounded by lush vegetation and scattered trees, The Loup appears as a tranquil oasis. Its calm waters, which resemble a combination of a lake, pool, and pond, make it an ideal habitat for various aquatic plants and animals. The marsh is fed by a small stream that meanders through the surrounding meadows, providing a constant supply of fresh water.

The Loup is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The water's edge is adorned with vibrant water lilies, reeds, and rushes, creating a vibrant and colorful display during the summer months. The marsh also provides a haven for numerous species of birds, such as ducks, herons, and kingfishers, which can be spotted darting amongst the reeds or gracefully gliding across the water's surface.

Visitors to The Loup can enjoy the peaceful ambience and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The area is a popular spot for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Overall, The Loup is a hidden gem in Selkirkshire, offering a glimpse into the beauty and biodiversity of freshwater marshes. Its unique ecosystem and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a moment of tranquility amidst Scotland's stunning landscapes.

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The Loup Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.507534/-2.9686813 or Grid Reference NT3824. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Track over Howford Hill

A waymarked route. This section has seen little recent use by agricultural vehicles.

Richard Webb

Brockhill

View across the hidden from sight Ettrick Water.

Richard Webb

Road, Mid Hill

Serving some buildings to the south and a quarry on Howford Hill.

Richard Webb

Farm buildings beneath Howford Hill

Richard Webb

Ettrick Bridge

View from Helmburn Hill.

Richard Webb

Summit, Helmburn Hill

Richard Webb

A lost woodland

The wee foreground hill was covered in pines until a few years ago. One of the few trees to survive the chainsaw blew down in the gale of 26th November 2021.

Richard Webb

Field, Helmburn

Richard Webb

They have powerful electric fences around here

The power line warning was obviously repositioned here. This is a new electric fence, solar powered but fortunately provisioned with gates. Electric fences are getting more and more common now and can be very awkward to deal with.

Richard Webb

Ditch and new electric fence, Helmburn

Richard Webb

Rough grazing, Green Knowe

Separated from the better quality farmland at Helmburn by a substantial dyke.

Richard Webb

Rough grazing, Helmburn

Richard Webb

House under Howford Hill

Farm cottage and gathering pens. View from Caver's Hill

Richard Webb

Helmburn Hill

View from Caver's Hill

Richard Webb

Recent clearfell, Caver's Hill

At the foot of Caver's Hill. I suspect they may have got them in in time. There was a lot of fresh windthrow in the area, as with many places after "Arwen", a big gale on 26th November 2021.

Richard Webb