Scotland · five wildlife sites
Nature reserves & wildlife sites in East Lothian
Explore these places for wildlife in East Lothian. Seasonal notes suggest when to look; sightings are not guaranteed.
01 / 05
Aberlady Bay Local Nature Reserve
Near Aberlady.
- Habitat
- Tidal mudflats and saltmarsh give way to dunes, coastal grassland and a freshwater lochan.
- Wildlife to look for
- Pink-footed goose (especially autumn), redshank, sedge warbler (spring–summer), roe deer.
02 / 05
Woodhall Dean — Scottish Wildlife Trust nature reserve
Near Spott, near Dunbar.
- Habitat
- Ancient sessile oak woodland covers steep-sided valleys around small burns.
- Wildlife to look for
- Redstart (spring–summer), garden warbler (spring–summer), roe deer, adder (warmer months).
03 / 05
Brock Wood — Scottish Wildlife Trust nature reserve
Near Spott.
- Habitat
- Mixed woodland includes native oak, ash and alder alongside remaining planted conifers.
- Wildlife to look for
- Nuthatch, wren, otter (elusive).
04 / 05
Thornton Glen — Scottish Wildlife Trust nature reserve
Near Innerwick.
- Habitat
- Broadleaved woodland lines a narrow gorge cut by the Thornton Burn.
- Wildlife to look for
- Roe deer, bullfinch, speckled wood butterfly (spring–autumn).
05 / 05
Fidra — RSPB nature reserve
Near Dirleton.
- Habitat
- A small offshore island has grassy slopes, rocky shores and seabird cliffs.
- Wildlife to look for
- Puffin, guillemot, razorbill, shag; the breeding season in spring–summer is the main attraction. Official
- Access note
- View from the coast or an appropriate boat trip; do not assume public landing is available.