Wildlife in Scotland
Scotland’s beautiful landscapes, from the glistening seas around the coast to the forests, moors and glens, are home to an astonishing array of wildlife.
When you are out and about in the wilds of Scotland, keep your eyes peeled and you never know what you might come across, from golden eagles soaring through the air to sleek otters lunching on a shoreline snack.
You are sure to spot grey seals basking on rocks in the sun with their new born furry pups, or majestic deer which appear and vanish in a split second. If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the rare Scottish wildcat prowling through the forest or a shy adder snake disappear under a rock.
Head north to the Orkney island of Hoy, which is one of the best places to see Scotland’s most charismatic seabird, the puffin. Sail from Inverness into the Moray Firth to meet the resident bottlenose dolphins or catch a glimpse of a minke whale off the coast of the Outer Hebrides.
Whilst visiting Dumfries and Galloway, you may spot a flash of red through the forest, a sure sign of the red squirrel, whereas the great islands of Shetland retain their title as the best places to see orcas.
Whether you are a dedicated bird watcher or just casually interested in spotting wildlife, Scotland offers some of the best opportunities in Europe to observe our feathered friends.
