Speccie

[neversaydie]

Weak step around a ruined place in Scotland (7)
I have wa?tag?

[emmie]

wastage??

[neversaydie]

Parsing please - I can't see it

[emmie]

me neither, but its the only thing i could find that fits.

[emmie]

the weakening or deterioration of a part of the body, typically as a result of illness or lack of use.
"the wastage of muscle tissue"

[neversaydie]

The place in Scotland connection?

[emmie]

that is can't parse. perhaps someothers can

[emmie]

usually you get loads of responses

[LancastrianOik]

WA****E

It's in Chambers- a noun meaning a devastated or ruined place (Scots).

[emmie]

no wonder i couldn't find it. sorry.

[neversaydie]

Thanks both!

[emmie]

what was it after all

[LancastrianOik]

As for parsing the answer- the only thing I can come up with is Wa(stag)e.

"Wae" being Scots for wan or hopeless, "stag" being a dance for men only.

[Toorak]

W(eak) stage (step) round a

[elliemay1]

You were right, it was wastage!

[LancastrianOik]

Toorak- your answer makes more sense than my rather contrived effort, especially as I now know that "W" is a symbol in particle physics indicating a weak charge or bond.