Persley Quarries

Explorer Tom North of Aberdeen, Scotstown Moor keeps a patchwork of ponds, heath, grassland and woodland within reach of the city. It sounds like a place that might ask for sturdy boots and a compass, but its broad surfaced paths make this a pleasingly straightforward wild wander, with dragonflies supplying the aerial acrobatics. The British Dragonfly Society calls the reserve its most northerly Scottish dragonfly hotspot. It describes ponds at both ends and sightings along the nearby paths, with common hawker and common darter among the species to look for in season. Wet ground also supports black bog rush, a rare plant that helps explain the site's protected status. Leave the plants where they stand; the excitement here is in noticing them, not trying to take home a botanical trophy. Aberdeen City Council manages the reserve through its countryside ranger service. Council material describes the wider Scotstown area as a mix of woodland, heath, scrub, bog, ponds and grassland, well used for walking and learning about wildlife. Go slowly and a modest-looking pool becomes busy with insects; look up and the open ground may reward you with a hunting bird. The moor is a fine cure for the belief that nature only begins beyond a long drive. The Dragonfly Society gives car access from the B997 Scotstown Road and pedestrian entrances from surrounding roads. Its visitor guidance says the paths are wide and surfaced, with slopes but no steep hills. Summer is especially good for dragonflies, though the reserve is worth a walk in any season. Let Aberdeen keep its granite reputation; come here for the softer, livelier side.