Home … And don’t forget, we specialise in birds, but do see an amazing array of wildlife in all of our tours. During the height of the breeding season, over 200,000 seabirds of 14 species nest on the island. You've a right to walk almost anywhere in Scotland - just check the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. From Eider Ducks to Golden Eagle’s, Islay has it all. There are plenty of bird watching opportunities in The Lothians especially with the Bass Rock being one of Scotland's major sea bird colonies. Find information about over 250 British species. Latest rare bird sightings, birding locations, images, links and useful contact details for Scotland. Edinburgh Zoo is a must-see attraction with its famous penguins and pandas. Working from Oban, on the beautiful West coast of Scotland, we offer wildlife and island cruises that combine bird-watching, whale-watching, island hopping and walking. Glimpse some of Scotland's most iconic, elusive and magnificent birds at these great bird attractions. The Isle of May is home to a diverse range of birds, including puffins, terns, razorbills, shags and cormorants. Bass Rock is home to more than 150,000 gannets. © 2021 VisitScotland. 2. Find a reserve near you and get information about what you might spot. OUTER HEBRIDES. Another great spot to look for eagles is the Isle of Mull. Orkney is 16 kilometres (10 mi) north of the coast of Caithness and comprises approximately 70 islands, of which 20 are inhabited. From the magical island of Mull to the wonderfully rugged Cairngorms. As the Highlands is teeming with birdlife, Eagle Brae and the surrounding Scottish Highlands is a bird watching haven. Forsinard Flows RSPB Reserve, The Flow Country, Caithness & Sutherland, 6. Gannets are famous for the way they catch fish. The Isle of May is located 8 kilometres from the Scottish mainland and is just under 2 kilometres long. Lying 93 miles north of the Scottish mainland like the pieces of an elongated picture puzzle, the Shetland Isles must rate as one of the best birdwatching areas in Britain. Many of these are around the Shetland Isles, Orkney islands, the Hebrides, the Moray Firth and the Kyle of Lochalsh. A huge variety of bird species Each autumn, thousands flock here to south west Scotland to take advantage of the relatively mild climate and abundance of food. With thousands of miles of coastline, including rugged sheer cliffs and pristine beaches, as well as over 700 islands, Scotland is one of the best places in the UK to get up close and personal with puffins, guillemots, manx shearwaters and more. Iona’s Abbey hold Celtic treasures, and the rhododendrons and azaleas should be in bloom. The Isle of May is one of the best birdwatching sites in Scotland to see puffins and a variety of other birds that isn’t too far from Edinburgh or Fife. When they spot a shoal of fish from the air they tuck their wings back and dive into the water at high speed. Based in Scotland in the Scottish Borders and travelling around the UK, Europe and the USA photographing what has become a passion for him, wild birds and animals. Bird watching for beginners in Scotland. The islands’ residents take pride in their gardens, and the open moorland is in bloom, here we may find Skylark displaying and Twite. An added bonus to birdwatching in Scotland is that it can be carried out while looking for other wildlife, or admiring the stunning scenery. This will not come at any extra price to you however it does support the website and allow it to keep running. It brings the migration when thousands of southern avian visitors hit these shores. Caerhaverock Wetland Centre, Dumfries & Galloway, 9. The two birds of prey are often seen flying together. It is … We are avid bird-watchers who recently retired, allowing us more time to travel the world. All rights reserved. The site, part of the Wildlife Web, is maintained by Paul Doyle (paul@wildlifeweb.f9.co.uk) at Grampian and Cairngorms Wildlife Services, Aberdeen, Scotland.....Where to Birdwatch in Scotland - these pages, by the Scottish. Autumn in Scotland means rich wildlife potential amid rugged beauty, and you can join us there for an exclusive trip from 31 October to 5 November 2021. Virtually the entire Svalbard population of barnacle geese overwinters here. Glimpse majestic red kites swooping through the air. Think bird watching is something only hardened twitchers enjoy? See what you can spot on Scotland's coastline. Print this page. The most impressive are probably seabird colonies that settle in Handa Island with thousands of skuas and auks. There are so many stunning bird species and birds of prey in Scotland to spot. Ducks and geese are bountiful in the Scottish … But Mull is not only known for its eagles, but also for being a great place to spot a wide range of other bird species, including seabird species such as puffins, fulmars, guillemots, shags, kittiwakes and gulls. Prices from £2395 pp. And don’t forget, we specialise in birds, but do see an amazing array of wildlife in all of our tours. Whether your interest is in whales, walking, birds, natural history or photography we have a holiday you’ll love: Debbie from Norfolk declared her cruise … Another great spot to look for eagles is the Isle of Mull. This is very dramatic to watch. So did our sceptical writer – so we sent him to Scotland to see how it can enhance your travel experience . Spring is the time of year when bird watching gets really exciting. Britain's first Local Nature Reserve created in 1952. You’ll find Arctic Terns on the coasts, zipping around and squabbling with their grating call; if you get too close to… (In fact Scotland has just become a member of a handful of global countries that have 500 or more species of bird visit). General Wildlife. The island is also well known for its white-tailed sea eagle population. Another large RSPB reserve is the Forsinard Flows. Bird's eye view. So if you are planning a bird watching trip or a Birdwatching Holiday to the Highlands of Scotland at any time of the year, please contact Birding Ecosse and talk through what your requirements are and take advantage of any special offers that we may have running at the time. During the summer months, Orkney’s cliffs are home to thousands of breeding seabirds, with Marwick Head in the West Mainland , Mull Head in the East Mainland , and Noup Head in Westray , popular sites for observing. More than 140,000 wading birds, including pink-footed geese, goldeneyes, dunlins, grey plovers and golden plovers have been recorded in winter and many others of birds pass through. For a really memorable holiday you can even book a whole boat for friends and family. Knockshinnoch Lagoons Wildlife Reserve, Near Cumnock, Ayrshire, The best bird watching locations in Northern Ireland 2020, Best Bird Watching Locations in Wales 2020, Eagles of Arkansas (2 Species with Pictures), Eagles of California (2 Species with Pictures), Finches of California (6 Species with Pictures), Finches of Arkansas (5 Species with Pictures), Eagles of Arizona (2 Species with Pictures). COVID-19. Isle of Lewis, Isle of Harris & Stornoway. Rarity finders: Steller's Eider in Orkney. Climbing high into the national park’s peaks and onto its high plateau, you may be lucky enough see a range of other iconic bird species such as snow buntings, ptarmigan and dotterels, as well as seasonal mountain visitors like the ring ouzel. This is just one of many such smaller and less well known reserves that are also excellent spots for birdwatching in Scotland. Why not stay in a castle, a lighthouse or on a working farm? This is one … On the shores of Loch Garten, the Loch Garten Osprey Centre is one of the very best places to see these majestic birds of prey. As in the Cairngorms National Park, here you can also find remnants of ancient Caledonian forest, and may spot some of the native forest birds. General Birdwatching. The Best of Scotland - A Birdwatching Tour Tour Code: GBR62 This varied and exciting holiday will focus on enjoying a great range of habitats and therefore birds across Scotland! Yet of course, this diverse wetland environment is also visited by and home to a huge range of other birds and other wildlife. During the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic it is imperative that information provided here does not encourage anyone to breach any current Government advice regarding travel restrictions and social distancing to prevent … Manage Cookie Settings. A thorough and complete grand tour of the Outer Hebrides: From Lewis to Harris, Berneray, North Uist, Benbecula, South Uist, Eriskay, Barra, Vatersay & Mingulay! Eagle Island’ – The Isle of Mull. Speaking of golden eagles, you may also catch a glimpse of one in Glen Affric, said to be one of the most picturesque glens in the country. The Nature Reserves of the Orkney Isles, 8. Large numbers of migratory birds pass through Orkney, and we get all manner of rare breeds appearing here too, often after being blown off course! Wild Bird World may gain commission from affiliate links on the site. Expert local knowledge, gifts and inspiration. Follow this self-guided tour around 13 locations along 150 miles from Barra in the shouth to Ness at the northern tip of Lewis to see some of Scotland's most iconic predators. Get closer to elusive seabirds than you could ever imagine on a boat charter or wildlife cruise in Scotland. The site identifies good birdwatching opportunities in each area. So if you are planning a bird watching trip or a Birdwatching Holiday to the Highlands of Scotland at any time of the year, please contact Birding Ecosse and talk through what your requirements are and take advantage of any special offers that we may have running at the time. Deep in the woods, I silently spied on the unsuspecting birds, hoping to see some tits. West Highlands & Islands, Argyll, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs; Perthshire, Angus and Fife ; Edinburgh, Lothians and Scottish Borders; Glasgow, Ayrshire, Arran, Dumfries and Galloway; Wild Scotland’s Adventure Map; Wildlife Watching Calendar; Getting To and Around Scotland; Follow Wild Scotland. Orkney also known as the Orkney Islands, is an archipelago in the Northern Isles of Scotland, situated off the north coast of Great Britain. Lewis is the largest island in the Outer Hebrides. Iconic Ben Nevis needs to be top of your Scottish to-do list. Birding Orkney. Stay up to date with Wild Scotland and sign up for our Newsletter. These dramatic Scottish birds are found on the far northern islands of Scotland, and on some northern reaches of the mainland, migrating here from their wintering grounds off the coasts of Spain and Africa. In summer, around 45-50 different bird species breed here, including shelducks, redshanks, curlews and oystercatchers. Immerse yourself in the natural world and get close to some of Scotland's most elusive and endangered species from the peace and quiet of a bird hide. At this time Scotland hosts a great number of migratory birds and summer visitors nest and breed all across the country. Information is organized . In the Firth of the River Forth, small islands play host to some of Scotland’s most important seabird habitats. Wildlife webcams are another great way to watch and learn about some of Scotland's more elusive and secretive wildlife species. This is one of the best places in the British Isles to look for Golden Eagles. The Gannet is the largest sea bird in Scotland with an adult bird having a wing span of up to 6 foot. RSPB Abernethy Forest Nature Reserve, Strathspey, 3. Expertly guided bird watching and birding holidays from Heatherlea Birdwatching. Loch Lomond, The Trossachs, Stirling & Forth Valley. Separating East Lothian, near Edinburgh, from the Kingdom of Fife, the Firth of Forth is a haven for birdlife, most particularly on the two islands – Bass Rock and the Isle of May. Use a pair of binoculars to see magnificent birds of prey, such as a nesting pair of ospreys with their young in their Highland retreat. ISLE OF LEWIS & HARRIS. Interesting geology, historic castles, fascinating birds … Scotland … This place is not known for its diversity of bird species,nor for being a spot to see rare species. Gretna Green may be more famous for runaway weddings, but it is also a famed birdwatching destination amongst those in the know. Aberlady Bird Reserve. Let’s take a look at some of the very best bird watching sites in Scotland. Hen capercaillies, golden eagles, and white-tailed eagles are also plentiful in Scotland during this season. This is part of an area that is known as ‘The Flow Country’ – a large area of deep blanket bog that is home to an array of bird species, including red and black throated divers, greenshanks and golden plover that all nest here, predated upon by golden eagles, merlin and short-eared owls. Your Scottish bird watching vacation wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Scottish Seabird Centre at North Berwick, where you can watch wildlife all year round and control live interactive cameras to see puffins and gannets with chicks in spring, and also seals with pups in winter, and occasional sightings of dolphins and whales as a bonus. With thousands of miles of coastline, including rugged sheer cliffs and pristine beaches, as well as over 700 islands, Scotland is one of the best places in the UK to get up close and personal with puffins, guillemots, manx shearwaters and more. The island of Islay is not very large, about 26 x 18 miles (40 x 30 km), but packed within these bounds is a considerable diversity of bird habitats. Sign up to our newsletter Login Register ... 9 Clyde Islands; 10 Dumfries & Galloway; 11 Fife; 12 Forth; 13 Highland; 14 Lothian; 15 Moray & Nairn; 16 Orkney; 17 Outer Hebrides ; 18 Perth & Kinross; 19 Shetland; Related Articles. Change your preferences at The RSPB Abernethy Forest Nature Reserve is one of the largest nature reserves in Europe. Wildlife webcams are another great way to watch and learn … There are also some unusual ducks, divers, waders and foragers in the rivers, lochs and glens. Cookies are required to view this content. according to a map of Scotland. These include the western Capercaillie, the common goldeneye, the Parrot crossbill and Scottish crossbill, and the European crested tit. Skomer island. The rich variety in landscape types and ecosystems over a relatively small area means that nature lovers can see a huge variety of birds – both native resident and migratory species. Several remaining remnants of the ancient Caledonian Forest are found within the breathtaking Cairngorms National Park. This centre on the northern shore of the Solway Firth is one of the best places in the UK to see geese and swans. Scotland is widely regarded as an excellent destination for bird watching. Some of the key species to look out for when bird watching at Eagle Brae are: Golden Eagle, Crested … Fortunately, we have managed to visit numerous countries around Europe, Asia, and America. Where to watch birds in Scotland. Birdwatchers can also see numerous divers on inland lochs during the summer months, and many woodland birds in tree-covered, sheltered spots. Instead, this is a place to see one of the best birdwatching spectacles that there is to see – starling murmurations. Aberlady Bird Reserve. The stunning island of Islay boasts some of the best bird watching in Scotland. Or check the latest restrictions. Most British raptors (impressive birds of prey) can be found at Eagle Brae. From huge predators prowling the skies and nimble grouse navigating heather-clad moorlands, to cheerful songbirds nestling in tranquil woodland and vast seabird cities thriving on coastal cliffs, there are plenty of opportunites to go bird watching in Scotland. This reserve is a diverse mosaic of islands, lagoons, marsh, reed beds and wet woodland created by surrounding coal bings on the upper River Nith Valley. More than 40 operators now offer whale and dolphin watching in Scotland. Here there is a nest cam which allows birdwatchers to observe nesting behaviour and young, and the chance to spot the birds diving for fish. https://theculturetrip.com/.../articles/the-best-scottish-islands-for-seeing-wildlife Birdwatchers that are particularly interested in seabirds should be sure to stop by the Scottish Seabird Centre. On Orkney, not only will you be able to see many seabirds, wetland birds and moorland birds, you will also get the opportunity to see a wide range of migratory birds passing through in large numbers, including rare birds not usually spotted on mainland Scotland. At the Scottish Seabird Centre you can visit a discovery centre and take seasonal boat rides to find out more about these important nature reserves. Famed for their ferocity, these birds steal and plunder from other seabird species, and have been known to dive bomb humans who approach their nests. Capercaillie, Ptarmigan, Golden Eagle, Dotterel, Scottish Crossbill, Osprey, Crested Tit, Blackcock at the lek, Divers and Grebes in breeding plumage The traditional outdoor sports the Victorians popularised in Scotland, such as hunting and fishing, have also left an ideal infrastructure for hunting with a camera, rather than a gun. Cruises and Boat Trips. The Orkney Isles offer yet more impressive birdwatching opportunities, especially within the thirteen RSPB reserves dotted around the islands. There are a number of bird species that breed only in this ecosystem and nowhere else in the British Isles. Two large, sheltered sealochs, Gruinart and Indaal, each with extensive inter-tidal flats, attract divers, grebes, ducks and waders in great variety. Birdwatching holidays, vacations and trips in around the Scottish islands. Highland Records Committee (HRC) species are in green, Scottish Birds Rarities Committee (SBRC) species are in blue and British Bird Rarities Committee (BBRC) species are in red. On the Firth of Forth. It is home to a wide range of breeding birds including water rail, whinchat and reed bunting, and many migrating species can be seen here too in winter. As the climate changes, new additions to migratory flocks have included Iceland gulls, glaucous gulls, green and blue winged teals, ring necked ducks, and red breasted geese. Every birdwatcher loves the special birds of the Scottish Highlands. Article Summary: Best Budget Binoculars: Nikon 8250 Aculon 16×50 Best Mid-tier Binoculars: Nikon Monarch 5, Anyone who considers themselves a birdwatching fanatic must always think of Northern Ireland as a, The best bird watching locations in Wales are located across all four corners. With over 100 species present on the island, year-round it is an ideal destination for the avid bird watcher. Within Cairngorm’s National Park, one particular destination deserves to be singled out for special mention. Watching and photographing birds has been a passion for many years and we are making the most of the extra time on our hands! Keep up to date with the latest birding information and tips! Get closer to elusive seabirds than you could ever imagine on a boat charter or wildlife cruise in Scotland. The high plateaus are abundant in ptarmigan and dotterel. Avibase is an extensive database information system about all birds of the world, containing over &1 million records about 10,000 species and 22,000 subspecies of birds, including distribution information for 20,000 regions, taxonomy, synonyms in several languages and more. This is the world’s largest colony of Northern gannets and it has been described by naturalists as one of the wildlife wonders of the world. Sweeping clouds of up to 50,000 birds can be seen here in the autumn and winter months, making this one of the best places to see this spectacle in the British Isles. You may also be lucky enough to spot osprey around Loch Beinn a’Mheadhain. He can be regularly seen in the Farne Islands, the Bass Rock, The Cairngorms and The Shetland Islands as well as The Isle of Mull, The Trishnish Isles, Ardnamurchan and the Hebrides in search of the wild birds he loves to photograph… Search below for open businesses that are Good to Go (COVID-safe).