13/02/2010

This week on Out of Doors

In post recession Britain, many people appear to be interested in having a slice of the 'Good Life' - keeping a few hens, ducks, sheep and even pigs in their gardens. Vet, Dr Mary Fraser, believes there is not enough expertise out there to help people look after their animals. We hear how Mary has even gone as far as operating on a chicken.

Euan McIlwraith visits the North East Wildlife and Animal Rescue Centre in search of some hens. He discovers why former battery hens are the hen of choice for many people these days.

We continue the ongoing debate about the expansion of the Scottish salmon farming industry and the potential effects of this on wild stocks. This week we hear how trials are being undertaken in Canada to restrict the spread of disease from farmed fish through containment.

After being contacted by an Out of Doors listener who had concerns over out of control dogs bringing down roe deer, we discover if the Control of Dogs (Scotland) Bill, which is working its way through the Scottish Parliament, will mean that dog owners can be prosecuted in the future if their dogs disturb wildlife.

Mark takes a walk in Perthshire through the Quarrymill Woodland Park and up to Scone with Felicity Martin, author of two volumes of Experience Big Tree Country.

Finally, Euan enjoys some breathtaking views over the Cairngorms on a perfect winters' day, and gets some simple safety tips en route.