Scotland has a unique natural heritage. Its landscape and coastline have been shaped by dramatic geological events and provide a home for a wealth of land and sea animals, many of which are migratory and some which are unique or rare to this part of the world.
The Marine Biodiversity Policy and Sustainable Management team is responsible for policies that preserve marine habitats and the animals that are supported by them, including marine protected areas, within the wider context of biodiversity and sustainable development.
The Nature Conservation Strategy and Protected Areas team is responsible for policies on terrestrial protected areas and the animals that rely upon them.
In the pages that follow, you will find information regarding the EU and Scottish legislation under which sites and species are protected, as well as an overview of the various work we are involved in to promote, protect, and manage biodiversity.