As the light fades at Linlithgow Palace [3], all manner of beasts begin to emerge and go in search of prey.

On Saturday 11th August 2007, there is a chance to join the Historic Scotland Dusk Patrol and go in search of the night walkers.Some live in secret parts of the palace ruin, while others have dens and burrows out of human sight in the wilderness areas round the loch.

Ian Lewis, the Historic Scotland ranger leading the patrol, said: "Dusk is a very special time. Many animals and birds are bedding down for the night, but other creatures are starting to appear.We hope to see lots of bats as they hunt for insects, and if we are lucky there will be foxes and even badgers on the move."

The rangers will also be on the lookout for water voles and water rats.

Dusk Patrol is on Saturday 11th August at 7.00pm and is suitable for all ages. It is free to take part, but booking is essential as places are limited. Warm and weatherproof clothes are recommended. Call the rangers on 01506 842 065 for further details.

• Linlithgow Palace is in Linlithgow off the M9. Admission is charged to the Palace – though the rangers’ event is free - ticket prices are £5.00 for adults, £4.00 for concessions and £2.50 for children.
  
  
• The magnificent ruins of Linlithgow Palace are set in a park beside a loch. All of the Stewart kings lived here, and numerous renovations to the Palace’s grand facades and chambers were carried out as each sought to create the ideal modern palace.
  
  
• The Palace was last visited by the Stewart family in 1745, when Bonnie Prince Charlie stayed. In 1746, the Duke of Cumberland set the Palace on fire as he left to travel north to fight this very same Stewart at Culloden.
  
  
• The magnificent courtyard fountain has been carefully restored and is now on full view to visitors (running every Sunday throughout summer).
  
  
• The Loch is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to the extensive wildfowl population. A well surfaced walkway around the loch gives good views of the abundant water birds including swans, ducks, great-crested and little grebes.