NatureScot and Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) ask visitors to Ben Wyvis to act responsibly to help it protect vulnerable habitat
Visitors to Ben Wyvis are being asked to help efforts to improve the condition of rare moss heath at the site, a national nature reserve.
NatureScot says work being undertaken shows promising results, but faces threats from disturbance.
It wants visitors to help by avoiding areas where moss is being restored and using existing routes along the summit.
There have been reports of damage caused by illegal motorbikes while hikers going off the main trail can also damage sensitive habitat.
Ben Wyvis has one of the longest single tracts of alpine moss heath in the UK.
Reserve manager Doug Bartholomew said: “We’re really pleased to see the condition of the moss improving but it’s easily damaged, so we’d ask visitors to be responsible and play their part in protecting this special place.
"The best thing to do is to try to stay on the main path, especially along the summit, as this really helps to minimise our impact.
"It also helps to avoid any areas with the hessian fabric and large rocks to allow those areas to recover.
"Ben Wyvis is somewhere that so many people enjoy, and it’s crucial that we protect its many irreplaceable habitats and wildlife.”
Murdo Maclennan, Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) forest management and stewardship forester in the area, added: “It is illegal under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code to take motorised vehicles into the NNR
" Riders and drivers who ignore the restrictions can cause significant damage to habitats that can take years to heal and can also disturb wildlife – especially ground nesting birds, some of which are of international importance.
“The irresponsible people who engage in this anti-social activity are also a hazard to visitors, our staff and even to themselves.
“We are working with Police Scotland and NatureScot to tackle the issue and would ask any members of the public who witness this kind of activity to report it to Police Scotland on 101.”
Visitors are also asked to be aware that the car park for Wyvis is quite small and may be full on busy days, so they should have a ‘plan B’ for outings.
Parking on the verge rather than in a proper space can be dangerous for road users and locals accessing their properties.
