rs in the
- Trout Brown trout exist in large numbers in the loch and are
regularly caught at lengths between 6" and 10" or 15cm to 25cm. Some turn
cannibal and grow much larger, easily attaining weights of 12 lbs (5.3Kg). These
are known as ferrox trout and produce a substantial sonar contact. In 2000 a
trout was caught weighing 18lbs (7.5Kg) a new Loch Ness record.
- Other Coarse Fish Introduced by man or as eggs on the legs of
wading birds, a number of other coarse fish now live in the loch and the
Caledonian Canal. These include, perch, roach, dace, rudd and carp etc.
- Deer The Loch Ness Project have accumulated a number of
photographs of deer swimming in Loch Ness. They are mentioned here not because
of any effect they may have on the food chain, but in order to be included as
one of the causes for mistaken identity when researching Loch Ness Monsters.
There are three species seen regularly around the loch - red deer,
sika deer and
- Otters Otters do live at Loch Ness, but are rarely seen. The
author has never seen a live otter in the loch despite living overlooking
Loch Ness for twenty years. It is possible, however, that otters cause some cases of
- Adder or Viper All Scottish snakes are poisonous! Fortunately
there is only one, the adder or viper. They have been seen on the shoreline, but
I know of no sightings of them swimming in the water. The adder normally
frequents the heather covered hillsides and is seen most often in dry sunny
weather. The adder's bite can often prove fatal and, if bitten, you should seek
medical advice immediately.
- Lizard Small (4", 10cm) lizards are seen on the rocks around
the shores of the loch occasionally but do not enter the water as far as is
- Slow Worm A legless lizard found frequently around Loch Ness.
The vestiges of legs can be seen under the silvery body and the tail detaches if
grasped. It is very rare to find both slow worms and adders living in close