Blog
Scotland species finder
Learn more about Scotland’s nature with our species finder. Each post includes detailed species information, tips for where and how to find it, and a summary of related conservation issues. Check out my Scotland guided wildlife trips to explore some of the best habitats in the UK.
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Scotland’s leaping salmon
October and November are good months to see Atlantic salmon leaping in Scotland, concluding one of nature’s most impressive migrations.
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Snow bunting: standout songbird
The snow bunting is a small bird which thrives in polar regions and displays a striking colour change from winter to summer.
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Scotland’s golden eagles: remarkable raptors
Golden eagles are one of Scotland’s most spectacular birds of prey – learn about their biology and the best places to see them.
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Red squirrel in Scotland: a resilient rodent
Red squirrels are instantly recognisable and occupy habitat in several parts of Scotland, including the Cairngorms.
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Basking shark: Scotland’s full-sized fish
The basking shark’s huge size makes it one of Scotland’s most famous wild fish.
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Mountain hare: fleet-footed and fantastically furry
The Mountain hare (Lepus timidus) is one of the fastest mammals in Scotland and is well known for its dramatic seasonal colour changes.
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Capercaillie: Scotland’s rare ‘horse of the forest’
Learn about Scotland’s spectacular Capercaillie and why you shouldn’t try to spot one in the Cairngorms.
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Ptarmigan: the mountain murmurer
Learn about the hardy ptarmigan and get tips on how to spot them in the Cairngorms in Scotland.
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Moonwort: the fern folklore megastar
Moonwort (Botrychium lunaria) is a tiny fern which was reputed to have astonishing magical properties.
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Waxwing: the silky-tailed chatterer
Waxwings are winter visitors from Scandinavia, occassionally arriving in their thousands, in search of berry trees.
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Dog Vomit slime mould
Although sometimes referred to as Dog Vomit ‘fungus’, these slime moulds have more in common with animals than you might think…
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Crossbills in Scotland: enigmatic endemic?
Crossbills are fascinating birds – especially when you’re looking for common, parrot, or legendary ‘Scotbills’ in the Highlands of Scotland!
