For centuries the spectacular north-east clifftop fortress of Dunnottar Castle has endured, resisting invading armies and the vagaries of the Scottish climate.
Now a new enemy is at the gates and the custodians of the stunning site near Stonehaven, which has been inhabited since Pictish times, are mounting a defence.
They’re asking visitors accompanied by four-legged friends to have a little more consideration.
It’s because people wandering around the steep and undulating approaches to the castle walls are being dogged by well, dog poo.
What lies beneath is certainly an issue when the surrounding vista persuades you to raise your gaze in admiration.
It is a problem that would surely leave the Green Lady of legend feeling decidedly off-colour.
Emily Telford, head of rural enterprises at landowners Dunecht Estates, said that while the problem was no worse than anywhere else, it was something that could be easily resolved if the minority did the decent thing and picked their pet’s mess up.
She said: “It’s a friendly reminder for people to pick up after their animals 95-99% of people are responsible and do pick up, but the odd one or two don’t and it’s unfortunate that this can spoil things for others.”
The landowners have spoken with the council’s local dog warden and bins were installed some time ago for people to use when out on the clifftop walk or the coastal path beyond the attraction.
There are also signs in the area.
Dunnottar Castle is a dog-friendly visitor attraction indeed the castle’s mascot is a collie called Raasay a regular visitor from Deeside.