A complex area consisting of the wooded Torr Alvie, which slopes down to the north to a series of lochs and marshes. The mainly Betula woodland also includes Populus, Sorbus, Pinus sylvestris and Juniperus, and one of the few pure Quercus stands in the middle Spey valley.
First identified in 1989 as Loch Alvie; renamed in 1992. Descriptive text and bird data refer to the 2000 Inventory.
Key biodiversity
The lochs and marshes are important for both breeding and wintering waterbirds. The site is also nationally important for breeding Turdus iliacus (2 pairs, 1989, 3%).
Pressure/threats to key biodiversity
Ongoing Bucephala clangula monitoring takes place. The site is a candidate SPA.
Protected areas
National High International NoneIBA partly or wholly overlaps with the following national designated areas. National Nature Reserve: Craigiellachie. Sites of Special Scientific Interest: Alvie, Craigiellachie.
