Scotland · five wildlife sites
Nature reserves & wildlife sites in Cromartyshire
Explore these places for wildlife in Cromartyshire. Seasonal notes suggest when to look; sightings are not guaranteed.
01 / 05
Ben Mor Coigach — Scottish Wildlife Trust nature reserve
Near Culnacraig; Achiltibuie is the main nearby village.
- Habitat
- Rugged mountains, upland heath and peatland descend to a rocky coast.
- Wildlife to look for
- Golden eagle, white-tailed eagle, otter, grey seal along the coast.
02 / 05
Priest Island — RSPB nature reserve
Near Mellon Udrigle, on the mainland.
- Habitat
- An exposed island supports maritime heath, coastal grassland and rocky cliffs.
- Wildlife to look for
- European storm petrel (breeding season, mainly active around colonies at night), otter, grey seal. Official
- Access note
- This is a remote island; check landing arrangements and breeding-bird restrictions before visiting.
03 / 05
Isle Martin — community-owned conservation island and bird sanctuary
Near Ardmair.
- Habitat
- Regenerating woodland, grassland and wet ground are bordered by rocky shores and cliffs.
- Wildlife to look for
- Willow warbler (spring–summer), spotted flycatcher (summer), blackcap (spring–summer), siskin.
- Access note
- Check the trust’s current boat arrangements before travelling.
04 / 05
Achnahaird Bay — coastal wildlife site
Near Achnahaird.
- Habitat
- A sandy bay contains tidal flats, dunes, coastal grassland and a small estuary.
- Wildlife to look for
- Ringed plover, dunlin, sanderling, curlew; spring and autumn passage are particularly rewarding. Official
05 / 05
Cromarty shoreline — coastal wildlife site
Near Cromarty.
- Habitat
- Shingle beaches, rocky shore and sheltered coastal waters border the mouth of the Cromarty Firth.
- Wildlife to look for
- Bottlenose dolphin (possible offshore), eider, long-tailed duck (winter), shag. Official