Wildlife, flora and fauna in Scotland
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A wood of bluebells near Loch Eck
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A flock of birds at the Caerlaverock National Nature Reserve
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The North Ronaldsay sheep in Orkney live on a diet entirely made up of seaweed, which gives the lamb a distinctive taste
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Snowdrops in the woodlands of the Cambo Estate near St Andrews, Fife
Scotland's dramatic landscape, islands and coastal areas are home to a vast array of wildlife, flora and fauna, so come and observe these fascinating animals in their natural habitat.
Wildlife
From seabird colonies to marine mammals and endangered species, there are plenty opportunities to discover the wildlife that calls Scotland home, including at over 40 National Nature Reserves.
Head to the Montrose Basin Local Nature Reserve (LNR) during the winter months where barnacle geese, red bunting and redwings are regularly spotted. Further north in Aberdeenshire, thousands of wild geese, ducks and swans can be seen, including an estimated 20 per cent of the world's population of pink-footed geese, can be seen at the Loch of Strathbeg RSPB reserve.
Rare flowers, machair and woodland
Shetland has a significant number of indigenous plants which have adapted to the island's unique habitat and serpentine rock conditions. The most northerly island of Unst includes the world's only example of Edmonston's chickweed (mouse-ear).
During spring, a wonderful example of blooming snowdrops can be found covering over 70 acres of the Cambo Estate in the East Neuk of Fife. The annual Snowdrop Festival has events across Scotland and runs until 17 March.
Bluebells are also in abundance throughout the country during the spring and summer months. Admire the beautiful carpeted woodland floor, blooming with bluebells, anemones and primroses as you enjoy a relaxing walk. Some of the best locations to spot these magical carpets of flowers include Taynish NNR and Glasdrum Wood in Argyll, Galloway Forest Park and the Clyde Valley Woodlands NNR. Head to VisitWoods to find a bluebell wood near you.
Discover dense forests and ancient woodland across Perthshire, affectionately known as 'Big Tree Country'. At the Hermitage near Dunkeld, look out for one of Britain's largest trees, a towering Douglas Fir which reaches 212 ft.
Practical guide
Discover where and when to see Scotland's wildlife at its best.
