Caithness - Bird Watching

Caithness is for the most part untouched by humans leaving huge expanses of land which are free for the natural animals and birds to inhabit. Many people come to the area each year to see the bird life in Caithness along with amateur and professional photographers. They are hoping to catch a glimpse or a shot of some of the rare and interesting birds that Caithness has to offer.

The extensive and dramatic Caithness coastline offers many opportunities to view sea birds. Boat trips can be organised to go bird watching and also site seeing, with attractions like the Castle of Mey looking out over the sea. There are several RSPB reserves in the area; Broubster Leans Reserve where you can see breeding ducks, waders, wintering geese and swans. Forsinard Flows Reserve, a rugged peat land which hosts dippers, golden plovers, green shanks and hen harriers. You can also see red deer here. Dunnet Head Reserve is Britain’s most northerly mainland point. This coastal setting boasts breathtaking sea views as well as puffins, razorbills and skuas. You can also observe geese from Iceland and Greenland passing over head to spend the winter in warmer locations further south.

Each season in Caithness welcomes new experience for bird watchers. In spring the air will be filled with birdsong as they try to find mates and establish territories. The summer is the time to spot the young birds venturing off the steep cliff faces and remote moors for the first time. The winter will bring huge flocks of migratory birds escaping the harsh winters of the Arctic Circle. In the short days of winter you can see large flocks of birds congregating to feed then gathering again at dusk to keep warm.

Caithness offers endless opportunities to observe bird life in its most natural setting. Visit the RSPB website for more information about what is on offer in Caithness for the keen bird watcher or professional photographer.