Known for its breath-taking scenery and wild landscapes, Scotland is the perfect place to visit if you want to see some amazing and even rare wildlife. From wildcats in the Highlands to dolphins in the Moray Firth, here are some fascinating facts about the stunning animals that have made Scotland their home.
Scottish Wildlife in the Highlands and Beyond
Deer
Deer have become a fairly common sight amongst the forests of Scotland. During the autumn months of September to November, red deer ‘ruts’ can often be seen taking place. These are the times when stags battle one another by clashing their antlers, in an attempt to win a female mate and assert their dominance.
The red deer can be found across many parts of the Highlands, including the Cairngorms, as well as in Galloway Forest Park. In Lowland Scotland you may see some roe deer, as well as on the sea-braes along the east coast.
Dolphins And Whales
If you’re hoping to see some marine life, then the Moray Firth is the place to go. Bottle-nose dolphins are particularly active in the area and can be seen from Chanonry Point swimming out at sea, particularly during the summer months. You may also spot some whales off the Scottish coasts, with the islands of Skye and Mull being common whale-spotting hotspots.
Seals
In Scotland, you may come across two types of seal – the grey seal and the harbour seal. The harbour seal is the smallest of the two and is able to stay submerged in the water for up to 15 minutes. Impressively, it can swim up to 200 meters underwater.
Scottish Wildcat
The Scottish wildcat is extremely rare, with only approximately 100 left in the wild, but it can occasionally be seen in the Highlands. They are similar to tabby cats, but larger, and have tufts on their ears, as well as bushier tails. They tend to be fierce and secretive hunters. There is some concern within conservation circles that due to inter-breeding with domestic cats, the Scottish wildcat is in danger of losing its pure blood-line.
Otters
If you are keen to see some otters, then head to the Outer Hebrides and Shetland. Around 12% of the UK population of otters actually lives on Shetland. However, you will also find them in river systems across Scotland’s west and north coast. The islands of Skye and Mull are also good otter-spotting sites.
Red Squirrels
Although you will see plenty of grey squirrels in Scotland, the red squirrel is in fact the UK’s only native squirrel species. However, since the introduction of grey squirrels from North America, their numbers have dwindled. There are roughly 120,000 red squirrels left in the UK today, with about three quarters found in Scotland.
Adder
Adders are the only poisonous snake in Scotland and easily recognizable from the zig-zag markings along their backs. Adders are distributed fairly widely throughout Scotland, but they are rarely found in large numbers and only occasionally bite. You will find warning signs in adder hot-spots.
Bass Rock
Formed 320 million years ago, Bass Rock is home to the biggest northern gannet colony in the world. Each year, over 150,000 gannets can be seen here at the peak of the season. The gannets spend the majority of the year on Bass Rock, but in October migrate south, with many going as far as the west African coast. Along the lower ledge of the Bass you can also find guillemots, razorbills and shags, as well as seals in the rocks below.
Summary
Take a walk through one of the many Scottish Natural Nature Reserves and you are bound to see some exciting wildlife. In the Highlands you are almost certain to catch a glimpse of some of these wonderful animals. If you’re feeling adventurous the Outer Hebrides and the isles of Skye and Mull particularly are well worth a visit. For those interested in marine life, then a trip to the Moray Firth is a must. With plenty of tourist excursions available, your options are endless!
Leave a Reply