Nature lovers need not head for the hills to find things to see and do... Glasgow is full of opportunities for wildlife-watching or learning more about our feathered friends and flora and fauna.

It's the year of Natural Scotland, too, so there is lots to discover, and many events and activities are free.

Gentle giants

Working horses disappeared from the streets of Glasgow many moons ago but Glasgow City Council is doing its bit to remind people about the beauty of power of Clydesdale horses.

There are Clydesdales stabled at two city parks - Glasgow Green, in the east end, and Pollok Country Park, on the south side.

In the old days, they would have been used to pull carts, transport goods, deliver milk and, in the parks, doing all the jobs for which we rely on tractors today.

Today they give dray rides, attend gala days and compete in driving and showing classes at agricultural shows across the country. Call 0141 636 6920 for dates and times of dray rides and the days farriers visit to give the horses new shoes.

Farm open day

Tollcross Children's Farm in Tollcross Park in the east end of Glasgow, is a truly wonderful place, with 'proper' farmyard animals like sheep, pigs and chicken to see, along with much more unusual ones like lovebirds and llamas. On Sunday September 8 it is holding an open day with come-and-try workshops, crafts, balloon sculpture and face painting. It runs from 12 noon until 3.30pm.

Meercat Manor

Calderglen Country Park in East Kilbride has much to be proud of (nature trails, adventure playgrounds, excellent cakes in the cafe) but its Meerkat Manor tops the lot. The cute creatures always attract a crowd. Lots more animals and birds to see too, including spider monkeys, wallabies, wildcats and an ancient tortoise. Call 01355 236644 for more information, or visit www.slleisureandculture.co.uk

Give nature a home

Fancy making a hedgehog campsite in your garden? Or a birdhouse? The RSPB is hosting a fun event at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum over the weekend of September 21 and 22, all about autumnal activities.

It's designed to make young nature lovers think about how to turn their gardens into a lovely cosy home for wildlife, as winter begins to rear its head.

It runs from 1pm until 4pm each day, and admission is free. Call 0141 276 9599 for more information.

Lochside fun

Hogganfield Loch, in Robroyston, is Glasgow's most important site for migrant and wintering waterbirds. A diverse range of birds is attracted to the loch, with more than 100 different species being recorded. On September 1, from 10am until 3pm, the loch and surrounding Local Nature Reserve are hosting a celebration day for anyone interested in learning more about its wildlife. There will be wildlife counts, guided walks, stalls, displays and more. Call 0141 276 0931 for details.