About Us

About Us

We are a modest Bird of Prey Centre, situated close to the village of Balloch on the shores of Loch Lomond, and within the "Loch Lomond Homes & Gardens Centre". Our visitor centre is located within the boundaries of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, the first National Park in Scotland. We are conveniently situated, just 30 minutes from Glasgow, easily reached by car, bus, or train. So, if you are looking for a falconry experience, meet some unique birds of prey, or just something to do in the Loch Lomond, Glasgow, or central Scotland area, why not come along and spend a few hours in the company of our birds.

We have thirty eight birds of prey, representing twenty eight species. We have birds of all sizes, the Little Owl, Kestrels, Buzzards, Hawks, Falcons and Eagles, including "Orla", our Golden Eagle.

At Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre, we pride ourselves on our customer care. Operating as a fully licensed zoo, we have a responsibility to educate members of the public on native species, and the global plight faced by many birds of prey. We provide each visitor with a guided tour, where possible. The tour ensures our visitors are educated about each species, more importantly, they learn about the individual character and history of every bird.

So why not come in and meet our feathered companions, get up close, have a photograph taken, or just wander around. Browse our Gift Shop, purchase a souvenir of your visit. Our visitors always leave enlightened, having learned a great deal more about birds of prey. Most are surprised at the number of species we have. All visitors comment on how close they can get to the birds, and appreciate their size and power. Above all, our visitors recognise the passion of the staff and volunteers who care for the birds.

Accreditation

Visit Scotland has granted Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre a "Three Star, Visitor Attraction" award. The daily operations within the centre are subject to inspection by the Scottish Government's Zoo Licensing Authority, and West Dunbartonshire Council, Environmental Health Department.

Zoo Licence No. : WDC/ZL/01/09

We do not receive funding or grants from local authority, or government bodies. We rely entirely on entrance fees, donations, revenue from external events, the sale of merchandise, photos and sponsorships, to fund the running of the centre. Costs include medical bills for rescued birds, insurance, food, maintenance of bird accommodation and equipment, veterinary inspection fees, licences and legal certification.

The Founder

Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre was founded in November 2004 by Brian Haining, my friend. Sadly, Brian was diagnosed with cancer in March 2005. Despite intensive treatment, Brian lost his battle with cancer in October 2006, aged 41.

Anyone who knew Brian understood his passion for the birds and their welfare. Pity help anyone who did something incorrectly, or forgot the basic rules. The birds were treated like they were his offspring. That passion has been passed on to the volunteers who helped in the past, and who help now.

Many people who met and worked with Brian have remarked on how he changed their lives, a unique individual, prone to exaggeration sometimes, but always honest. I never heard him say a bad word about anyone, too forgiving most of the time.

Brian's family relinquished all ties with the centre in 2007. Now relocated to a purpose built facility, I think Brian would be proud of how his dream has become reality, a focal point for the public to relax and learn about these, often misunderstood, creatures.

Brian Haining, 04/04/65 - 26/10/06

What our visitors say

"Very Enjoyable Experience."

Proffitt Family, Cambridge.

"An exciting morning with these beautiful birds is really what I needed. Thank you."

Alex Rine Ferguson, Dubai..

"Fantastic little place, much, much better than we could have anticipated."

N. Jephcote & M. Eaton, Coventry.

"Thank you for a wonderful visit, a great 2 hours."

Julia & Martin Midgley, Christchurch, Dorset.

"Had a fantastic time, very lovely, friendly people. Beautiful, contented birds."

Joanne & Gareth Glover, County Down.

"What a wonderful place. The staff are great and the birds are magnificent. Well done on a great learning experience."

Lynn & Mike Burton, Brighton, West Sussex.

"The tour was informative and interesting. All the birds are amazing. The centre seems to be doing a fantastic job looking after these beautiful creatures. All in all, a great experience"

The Duigenan Family, England.

"Such an amazing visit. I don't think I have ever seen my husband lost for words. A fantastic fun filled family treat."

The Spink Family, London.

"Excellent experience. Really enjoyed it, and so did the kids"

D. Roscoe, Manchester.

"Fantastic day, Thanks a million. Better than we expected. Excellent, exceeded all our expectations."

Jan Clark, Northwich, Cheshire.

"Never seen a centre like this - Perfect"

Ton Haase, The Hague, Netherlands.

"Beautiful birds. Wonderful to see such good work! Will be teaching this to Grade 1."

Tiffany Syrtanen & Val Foster, Ontario, Canada.

"Truly amazing experience, I just loved the personal touch from the staff. The passion was clear to see. Really enjoyed the handling session. Will certainly be back for more"

C. Partner, Ludlow.

Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre

(Rescue, Conservation & Education Facility)