Scotland · five wildlife sites

Nature reserves & wildlife sites in Ayrshire

Explore these places for wildlife in Ayrshire. Seasonal notes suggest when to look; sightings are not guaranteed.

01 / 05

Ayr Gorge Woodlands

Near Failford.

Habitat: Ancient woodland lining a steep sandstone gorge beside the River Ayr.
Wildlife to look for: Dipper, kingfisher, grey wagtail, great spotted woodpecker.

02 / 05

Near Kilwinning.

Habitat: Floodplain grassland, open water, scrub and woodland beside the River Garnock.
Wildlife to look for: Teal (especially autumn–winter), wigeon (autumn–winter), shoveler (mainly autumn–winter), little grebe.

03 / 05

Near Irvine.

Habitat: Coastal grassland, marsh and a pond sheltered by mixed woodland.
Wildlife to look for: Sand martin (spring–summer), little grebe, tufted duck, coot.

04 / 05

Near New Cumnock.

Habitat: Former mining land supporting lagoons, reedbeds, marshes, willow scrub and grassland.
Wildlife to look for: Water rail (secretive), whinchat (spring–summer), reed bunting.

05 / 05

Near Barrhill.

Habitat: A mosaic of dry grassland, wet meadow, fen and mire.
Wildlife to look for: Cuckoo (spring–early summer), green-veined white butterfly (spring–summer), garden tiger moth (summer).