Scotland · five wildlife sites

Nature reserves & wildlife sites in Fife

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

01 / 05

Isle of May National Nature Reserve

Near Crail; the main visitor boats depart from Anstruther.

Habitat: A rocky offshore island supports maritime grassland, seabird cliffs and sheltered seal beaches.
Wildlife to look for: Puffin (spring–July), guillemot (spring–summer), eider (especially spring–summer), grey seal (breeding mainly in autumn).

02 / 05

Near Tayport.

Habitat: Coastal sandbanks, dunes and heath are complemented by freshwater lochs and woodland at Morton Lochs.
Wildlife to look for: Grey seal, harbour seal, otter, white-tailed eagle.

03 / 05

Near Guardbridge.

Habitat: Extensive tidal mudflats, sandbanks and saltmarsh surround the mouth of the River Eden.
Wildlife to look for: Black-tailed godwit (especially passage and winter), grey plover (mainly autumn–winter), redshank, shelduck, red-breasted merganser (especially winter).

04 / 05

Near Collessie.

Habitat: Former gravel workings now contain freshwater lochs bordered by woodland, wetland and grassland.
Wildlife to look for: Goldeneye (winter), great crested grebe (especially spring–summer), red squirrel, otter (elusive).

05 / 05

Near North Queensferry.

Habitat: Flower-rich coastal grassland and gorse scrub occupy rocky ground above the Firth of Forth.
Wildlife to look for: Fulmar (especially around the breeding season), common tern (spring–summer, offshore), lesser whitethroat (scarce spring–summer visitor).