Scotland · five wildlife sites

Nature reserves & wildlife sites in Shetland

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

01 / 05

Hermaness National Nature Reserve

Near Burrafirth, Unst.

Habitat: Towering sea cliffs border coastal grassland, heath and blanket bog.
Wildlife to look for: Gannet (spring–autumn), puffin (mainly May–July), great skua (spring–summer), fulmar.

02 / 05

Near Lerwick is the nearest town; access to the island is via Bressay.

Habitat: A grassy island rises to spectacular cliffs supporting large seabird colonies.
Wildlife to look for: Gannet (spring–autumn), guillemot (spring–summer), fulmar, great skua (spring–summer).

03 / 05

Near Grutness, near Sumburgh.

Habitat: Rocky sea cliffs and coastal grassland occupy Shetland Mainland’s southern headland.
Wildlife to look for: Puffin (late April–July), guillemot (spring–summer), fulmar, shag.

04 / 05

Near Sandwick, with boat departures from nearby Sandsayre.

Habitat: Rocky shores, coastal grassland and stone structures provide nesting places on an offshore island.
Wildlife to look for: European storm petrel (summer, best watched after dark), black guillemot, Arctic tern (late spring–summer), harbour seal.

05 / 05

Near Funzie, for the eastern reserve area.

Habitat: Wet grassland, shallow pools, heath and coastal habitats support breeding wetland birds.
Wildlife to look for: Red-necked phalarope (late May–July), red-throated diver (spring–summer), curlew, otter (elusive).