Barend Moss

Downs, Moorland in Kirkcudbrightshire

Scotland

Barend Moss

Bellymack Fields A large modern [post-2010] house on the B795 just east of Laurieston. — Bellymack Fields Credit: M J Richardson

Barend Moss is a prominent natural feature located in the Kirkcudbrightshire region of Scotland. Situated in the heart of the Galloway Hills, it encompasses a vast expanse of downs and moorland, covering an area of approximately 5 square kilometers. The moss is situated at an altitude of around 400 meters above sea level, providing visitors with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The terrain of Barend Moss is characterized by rolling hills, heather-clad moors, and scattered clusters of trees, creating a picturesque and rugged environment. The site is renowned for its rich biodiversity, providing a home to a variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can expect to encounter several species of birds, including red grouse and skylarks, as well as native mammals such as red deer and mountain hares.

The moss is also of great historical significance, with evidence of prehistoric settlements and ancient burial sites found in the area. Archaeologists have uncovered remnants of stone circles and cairns, highlighting the long-standing human presence in the region.

Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Barend Moss to partake in various recreational activities, such as hiking, bird-watching, and photography. Several walking trails crisscross the landscape, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.

Barend Moss, Kirkcudbrightshire is a captivating destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike, providing a unique and immersive experience in the heart of the Scottish countryside.

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Barend Moss Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.951712/-4.0346758 or Grid Reference NX6963. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Bellymack Fields

A large modern [post-2010] house on the B795 just east of Laurieston.

M J Richardson

Rough ground near Bellymack Fields

Wet and rushy, with a small drain.

M J Richardson

Rough grazing near Bellymack Cottage

With a line of bushes along a drain.

M J Richardson

Kirk Road, Laurieston

A 'no through road' to Dornell Loch. The nearest church is in NX7266.

M J Richardson

Gallery and cafe, Laurieston

Richard Webb

Game Park Plantation

Richard Webb

B795, Bellymack Moss

The wooded hills above Laurieston are in the background after the road crosses farmland and small woods near the outflow of Loch Ken.

Richard Webb

Bellymack Hill entrance

There is a kite feeding station here and it sounded a bit like a sheepdog trial with the kites whistling from the surrounding trees.

Richard Webb

Red kite at feeding station

Taken soon after they opened

David Pashley

Mum and Kid at red kite feeding station

Red kites were once common scavengers around our cities, feeding on scraps and carrion. They were, however, persecuted in the 19C, wrongly thought to take lambs and game. By 1880 only a dozen or so remained in the UK, in valleys in mid-Wales. In 1989 a reintroduction programme was launched and 104 red kites were released in Galloway between 2001 and 2005. They are now well established and have bred since 2003 with increasing success, with 18 young fledging in 2003 to 104 in 2011, and from 4 to 58 nesting pairs over the same period. There are now about 320 in the area. They are encouraged by a feeding station near Laurieston at Bellymack Hill Farm, and large numbers can be seen and heard calling every day as they gather in the trees and wheel about making their whistling calls, waiting for the daily feed at 2pm [road kill and chicken]. For more information see the Galloway Kite Trail and RSPB links – Link

and Link

David Pashley

Abandoned Trailer in Bargatton Plantation

This abandoned trailer was found at the side of a track deep in Bargatton Plantation, between Bargatton Loch and Glentoo Loch. The plantation was used for pheasant shooting, so perhaps the trailer was used for shelter or catering.

Forrest and Jen

Bargatton Plantation

This hillside in Bargatton Plantation has been planted and felled at one time, and some new trees have popped up between the old stumps.

Forrest and Jen

Edge of Bargatton Plantation

Taken from the side of Bargatton Hill towards White Hill, the boundary between bargatton Plantation and a farmer's field is marked by a stone wall and fencing. Neilson's Monument can be seen on top of Barstobrick Hill in the distance.

Forrest and Jen