The wildlife along the canal includes herons and wrens, otters
and wild mink. As you pass through beautiful scenery you might
catch a glimpse of deer and rare red squirrels in the surrounding
pine forests.
This area of Scotland is well known as a haven for all kinds of
wildlife. Watch Osprey from the canal towpath and look out
for dolphins in the sea at Crinan. Pine martins, one of Scotland's
rarest mammals, are so shy they are rarely seen. Recently, beavers were released in the area
in an attempt to reintroduce the species to Scotland.
Follow BBC's Springwatch as they catch up
with the Scottish Beaver Trial in the Heart of Argyll.
Moine Mhor National Nature Reserve
Moine Mhor is a lowland raised bog, a rugged and beautiful
landscape that is the wild heartland of Kilmartin Glen. It is one
of Europe's rarest and most threatened wildlife habitats, 98% of
which have already been destroyed. The best views of Moine Mhor
(The Great Moss) are from the Crinan Canal near Bellanoch or the
ancient hill fort of Dunadd. From here you can see the waterlogged
system of pools and bogs alongside the gentle twists and turns of
the River Add. Down at bog level you will find hen harriers,
curlews as well as an impressive range of dragonflies and
Stonechats which are present all year round.