Scotland · five wildlife sites

Nature reserves & wildlife sites in Ross-shire

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

01 / 05

Beinn Eighe and Loch Maree Islands National Nature Reserve

Near Kinlochewe.

Habitat: Ancient Scots pine woodland, mountain slopes and wooded loch islands form a varied Highland landscape.
Wildlife to look for: Golden eagle, white-tailed eagle, red deer, pine marten (elusive).

02 / 05

Near Garbat, near Garve.

Habitat: Mountain heath, blanket bog and exposed moss-covered summit slopes support upland wildlife.
Wildlife to look for: Ptarmigan, mountain hare, dotterel (summer), snow bunting (winter).

03 / 05

Near Ankerville.

Habitat: Intertidal mudflats, saltmarsh and wet grassland provide feeding and roosting areas around the Cromarty Firth.
Wildlife to look for: Pink-footed goose (autumn–winter), wigeon (mainly winter), pintail (winter), lapwing.

04 / 05

Near Rosemarkie.

Habitat: A sheltered wooded gorge follows a stream through broadleaved woodland and waterfalls.
Wildlife to look for: Dipper, buzzard, grey heron.

05 / 05

Near Balmacara Square.

Habitat: Oak and birch woodland, crofting meadows, heathland and sheltered shoreline create a varied coastal landscape.
Wildlife to look for: Red squirrel, pine marten (elusive), otter (elusive, along the coast).