You can find incredible Scottish wildlife in all corners of the country, from dolphins to red squirrels. Why not visit one of our two National Parks this year - Cairngorms or Loch Lomond & The Trossachs? And don't forget the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire Biosphere is on National Geographic's 'Cool List' for 2024!
We asked experts about wildlife in Scotland, and went birdwatching!
There is an abundance of wildlife species you can spot across Scotland in a range of natural habitats. Here are just a few to keep your eyes peeled for:
These hardy little birds are one of the many bird species you are bound to come across on your travels around Scotland.
Where:
When: The best time to spot these colourful birds is in the spring months of March - May.
One of the most iconic animals associated with Scotland, the red deer is the UK's largest land mammal and can be spotted in almost every region in the country.
Where:
When: Red deer are best spotted during the autumn months of September - November.
Grey seals are very common inhabitants you can see off the coastlines of Scotland. Keep your eyes peeled in the autumn months to see if you can spot fluffy grey seal pups too!
Where: All across Scotland, but in particular the Moray Firth, Firth of Tay, Ythan Estuary and the
When: Grey seals are best spotted during the autumn months of September - November.
Much smaller than their grey cousins, the fluffy red squirrel is an elusive addition to Scotland's forests and woodlands. Make sure you keep quiet as go on the lookout for these gorgeous little mammals.
Where:
When: Best spotted in the winter months of December - January when their vibrant reddish coats will stand out against the snow.
Bass Rock in East Lothian is one of the best places to see gannets and marine life in Scotland. Only a 30-minute train from Edinburgh, Bass Rock is home to the world's largest northern gannet colony. Catch a boat trip with the
Where: In addition to Bass Rock, you can catch gannets diving across Scotland including
When: Gannets begin to return from mid-February, but reach their peak over the summer months.
Take a boat trip, head off-road in a 4x4 on a wildlife safari, or make a break of it on a wildlife holiday.
From huge predators prowling the skies to vast seabird cities on coastal cliffs, there are incredible bird watching experiences to enjoy in Scotland.
Get up close and personal to Scotland’s amazing wildlife right now. Check out our best webcams to see what our wildlife is up to.
Eagles, wildcats, stags and whales - come and see rare and beautiful wildlife in Scotland.
Shetland has been recognised as an important marine mammal area for orca, harbour porpoise, humpback whale and minke whale.
Autumn is here and what better time to get outdoors and experience the southern realms of Scotland in all its autumnal glory than now.
Find out more about wildlife in Scotland with these great resources on what, when and where to spot animals.
Discover Scotland’s creatures at one of the many wildlife events and festivals.
Share your images by tagging @VisitScotland or using #ScotlandIsCalling
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