RSPB SCOTLAND BUYS BASS ROCK AFTER 320 YEARS IN PRIVATE HANDS

RSPB Scotland has purchased Bass Rock, a volcanic island in the Firth of Forth that is home to the world's largest colony of northern gannets. The island, which stands 106 metres high and lies three miles off the coast of North Berwick, had been owned by the Hamilton-Dalrymple family since Sir Hew Dalrymple bought it in 1706. The acquisition also includes neighbouring Craigleith Island, which supports approximately 10,000 puffins. A grant of £586,000 from the National Heritage Memorial Fund contributed to the purchase, though the total sale price has not been disclosed.

Bass Rock has held Site of Special Scientific Interest status for nearly 75 years and currently supports around 100,000 gannets. The island's white appearance results from guano coating its surface, while the volcanic rock beneath is dark grey and brown. The gannet population was severely affected by bird flu in 2022 and 2023, and the most recent survey found numbers had recovered to only around two thirds of their peak of 150,000. RSPB Scotland states that more than 70% of seabird species face decline, with threats including climate change, food scarcity, invasive species and human activity.

RSPB Scotland director Anne McCall said the organisation would work with the Scottish Seabird Centre to protect and enhance the bird colonies on both islands. McCall described the acquisition as arriving at a crucial time given the intensifying pressures on Scotland's seabird populations. Conservation groups now aim to introduce measures designed to protect and increase bird numbers at the site. The islands are uninhabited and also feature a lighthouse and the remains of an ancient castle.