Scottish Natural Heritage

Scottish Natural Heritage is a Scottish public body . It is responsible for Scotland's natural heritage, especially her natural, genetic and scenic diversity. It advises the Scottish Executive and acts as a government agent in the delivery of conservation designations, i.e. National Nature Reserve, Local Nature Reserve, Site of Special Scientific Interest, Special Area of Conservation, Special Protection Area and, specifically for Scotland, the National Scenic Area.

SNH has more than 500 staff. The Protected areas in Scotland account for 20% of the total area, SSSIs alone 13%.

See: National Nature Reserves in Scotland

Equivalent agencies in other parts of the United Kingdom

• English Nature
• Countryside Council for Wales
• Environment and Heritage Service