A surveillance network has been set up to monitor migrating geese and wintering waterbirds.
NatureScot has taken the step amid fears over the spread of avian flu over the coming months.
Last winter, there were a number of outbreaks in Dumfries and Galloway with thousands of dead Svalbard barnacle geese being found on the shores of the Solway.
The network will see site managers and volunteers across the country gather information for Scotland’s avian flu task force which will help it provide swift advice to government, conservationists and land managers on practical actions to help reduce the transmission and impact of the virus.
Earlier this month, all of Great Britain was declared an avian influenza prevention zone in a bid to stop the spread of the disease.
NatureScot’s wildlife management manager Alastair MacGugan said: “As we head into the winter months, we are still very concerned about the potential impact of avian flu on our wild bird populations and we remain vigilant to ensure we can respond to the evolving situation.
“We’re monitoring wintering goose populations very closely for avian flu and are working with colleagues in Iceland and Norway to identify cases in migrating populations.
The risk to human health from the virus is very low but members of the public should continue to avoid touching sick or dead wild birds and keep dogs on the lead in areas where there are infected birds.
