Mid Argyll has a role in COP16

She added: “Although Scotland covers a small part of the Earth, we are committed to our responsibility to protect and restore our internationally important biodiversity such as our temperate rainforests and our outstanding peatlands.”

In Mid Argyll this means finding a balance between regenerating woodland and maintaining open ground. In Taynish and Moine Mhor this is done by grazing with cattle to keep grassland in check and controlling deer numbers to allow trees to establish.

In addition, workers and volunteers on the reserve bash bracken for the benefit of the ground flora and invertebrates.

“In the meadows, cattle maintain the conditions needed for the marsh fritillary – one of the rare butterflies found on the reserve,” Heather explained.

 “Raised bogs like the one at Moine Mhor are among Europe’s most threatened habitats. They are home to plants and animals specially adapted to thrive in these water-logged conditions and play a significant role in storing carbon.

"Here our focus is on restoring the bog to health by reversing the impact of drainage, peat extraction and planting; raising the water table; and removing trees and scrub from the surface.

“These special places have another crucial role in providing people with opportunities to connect with and enjoy nature, ensuring that more people value it and are motivated to help tackle the nature and climate change crises.”