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Bear Cave

Assynt, Allt Nan Uamh, 100m W of waterfall, opposite entrance to ANUSC, Sutherland.

Small but interesting cave on the south side of the Allt nan Uamh below the waterfall opposite the entrance to the Altt nan Uamh Stream Cave.

Investigated for animal remains in (1959?) when the remains of what was assumed to be a polar bear was discovered. Unfortunately recent DNA testing in Ireland was unable to determine if the remains were Polar Bear or Brown Bear.

A short stooping crawl though the entrance quickly reaches banks of mud and gravel (where the remains of the bear were found). On the left there are tiny fissures in the roof leading to the surface. Ahead, a tight vadose tube swings gradually to the right becoming too tight but terminating in a boulder choke. To the right above the gravel slope there is a small chamber on the right hand side. Between the gravel slope and the chamber is a boulder choke assumed to be the far side of the choke in the narrow tube (with water trickling in from above).

Alternative Names: Ursa (Uamh), Uamh Ursa

Notes: An isolated outcrop of Ghrudaidh Formation - Dolostone. Most likely part of a wider underlying layer with a narrow separating band of Assynt Vogesite Swarm - Vogesite and Eilean Dubh Formation - Dolostone above.

The site is outside the Creag na Uamh Scheduled Ancient Monument but inside the Ben More Assynt Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Prior to the discovery of UNCABAC it was assumed this was the extent of this cave. With new passages discovered on the south side of the valley , it is possible there is more passage to be found beyond this blockage.

Hydrographic Feeds: Occasional surface run off.

Hydrographic Resurgences: Allt nan Uamh