Trees for Life, a conservation charity, is establishing a 283 hectare site of 100,000 trees at its Dundreggan Conservation Estate in Glenmoriston in the Scottish Highlands.

It could take between 50 and 100 years before the forest is fully established - if grazing levels are kept low.

It is hoped the initiative will lead to the return of waist-high species known as montane plants, which would support mammals, birds and pollinating insects such as bees and butterflies.

"Montane woodlands are a vital part of Scotland's precious Caledonian Forest but are often restored over only small areas, if at all," Doug Gilbert, Trees for Life's Dundreggan manager, said.

"To bring these special 'wee trees' back from the brink, and create habitats for the wildlife that depends on them, we need something bigger - and that's what we're setting out to achieve at Carn na Caorach."

Montane species grow near mountain summits despite harsh conditions but have suffered from centuries of overgrazing from animals such as sheep and deer.

The site - Carn na Caorach, meaning sheep cairn - lies at 450 to 600 metres above sea level on Dundreggan's north-eastern edge, with sweeping views over Glenmoriston and Glen Affric.

Volunteers will begin the first phase of planting in the northern spring, with further planting to continue over the next few years.

Australian Associated Press