The Bird Room

This room testifies to the scientific interest of the 6th Duke, who succeeded his father at the age of seven years.

Many of the birds were mounted by Mr Heckford of Kelso, whos skills were highly esteemed locally.

The exceptionally Gothic mahogany cases are not in keeping with the style of Playfair's improvements and must predate them. These fitted bird cases have ensured the survival of a solitary William Adam marble fireplace.

As well as many well-known species of birds, the Bird Room contains some other less common examples, including the now extinct American passenger pigeon.