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Over its history, Scotland has gained popularity for such icons as woolly Highland cattle and the mysterious “Nessie” of Loch Ness. But as Associate Biology Professor Dr. Mark Yates will show in his 3D Journeys lecture on Monday, Feb. 24, the country is a hub for all kinds of wildlife, including Scottish wildcats, red squirrels and basking sharks.

“The ecology of Scotland is quite diverse,” he said. “The mosaic of landscapes; from coastal to mountains in relatively small areas provides a wide range of habitats for both plant and animal species.”

This will be the second presentation in this year’s 3D Journeys series. It will begin at 10 a.m. in Turner Hall. 

During his lecture, “Moor than just Lochs: A brief ecological tour of Scotland,” Dr. Yates will also discuss how climate and geology impact the habitats found in a portion of the country. 

The Caledonian Forest, a residence for many native creatures that used to spread across a large stretch of Scotland, now only covers one percent due to human activity, according to the BBC. 

Ann Beason, co-chair of the 3D Committee, said the group is excited about Dr. Yates’ return to the series.

“3D Journeys is pleased to welcome back Dr. Yates, who in previous years has introduced Brazil and the Birmingham Botanic Garden to our audience,” she said. Students have described him as ‘awesome.’ We agree and look forward to our ‘brief ecological tour of Scotland’ on Feb. 24.”

Known by friends and colleagues as “Bat Man,” Dr. Yates, who has taught at LaGrange College for 13 years, enjoys sharing his passion for the outdoors with his students.

“I have always loved being out in nature and exploring the different areas where I live,” he said. “Hiking through a forest, listening to the noises and taking in how groups of plants and animals form communities are both relaxing and exhilarating. This becomes even more true as one begins to understand the relationships between the different groups of organisms making up these communities.”

Dr. Yates holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Furman University, a Master of Science in Forestry from Clemson University and a Ph.D. in Forestry from the University of Missouri. He has taught at the collegiate level for 18 years.

At LaGrange, he made his Price Theater debut last fall as Uncle Henry in “The Wizard of Oz.”

What he hopes the audience gets from his lecture is an appreciation for the diversity found in other areas of the planet. 

“By seeing how people in other parts of the world may look at our forests and mountains as exotic and interesting, I hope that provides an incentive for audience members to learn more about the special areas we have close to home.”