Wildlife on the Isle of Mull

Wildlife on the Isle of Mull

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Isle of Mull Wildlife Expeditions


	There can be few places in the world which have such amazing and diverse landscapes. In fact, many observers feel that the Hebridean Island of Mull is unique in its diversity. The terrain is so unusual that even the weather forecasters struggle to give accurate predictions. Whilst the centre of Mull is hugely mountainous and the third wettest place in Britain, the South of the Island has European sunshine records, along with the Isles of lona and Tiree. This area is also studded with gorgeous white sand beaches. Being an island it has to be said that certain wildlife species are not to be found here, such as the Pine Marten and the Scottish Wildcat, also fox, badger, and red squirrels. One can always make an excuse to take the 30 minute ferry crossing from Tobermory to Kilchoan on the Ardnamurchan Peninsula which is the most westerly point on the British mainland.

	Bird Watching - click here for more information
	Bird watching is a popular hobby especially on an island that has so many Birds Of Prey. Finding and identifying different bird species can be quite a challenge so we recommend you take a bird-watching tour early on in your holiday so you can make the best of the time you have available.. Birds can be identified by using a good quality bird book and visually determining the bird's category, field marks, size and shape, behaviour and migration patterns (if applicable), range of habitat, etc.

	Otters and Seals - click here for more information
	The Isle of Mull is home to the elusive European Otter ( Lutra Lutra ) which can be seen in various locations on the island. We advise you take a trip early on with a wildlife expert and then you will learn how to spot these creatures for the remainder of your holiday. Mull is also home to the Common and Atlantic Grey Seals which can be seen around the coastline of the island.

	Moorland and Woodland Birds - click here for more information
	Wildlife watchers will also be interested to note that despite what most people think, the Hebrides has huge amounts of woodland where Warblers and Songbirds are abundant in Summer. The Crossbill is rather like a small Parrot and the male bird has bright red plumage and a parrot-like bill, and he can be found in the pine forests of Mull. There are nesting Golden Plovers and Ptarmigan in the mountains, and waders on the estuaries, particularly during the spring migration. The Holy Isle of Iona has its own very special atmosphere and apart from having some beautiful beaches, it is also undoubtedly the best place in the area to see, or at least 'hear', the very rare Corncrake.

	Seabirds and Ducks - click here for more information
	Waders can be seen on the estuaries, particularly during the spring migration. Seabirds abound, and the colourful Puffin is easy to see and get close to, on a visit to the uninhabited Treshnish Isles or Staffa. Staffa is also famous for Fingals Cave and Mendelssohns' Hebridean Overture. Seabirds that are usually seen are the Guillemot and Black Guillemot, various members of the Skua family, Shearwaters, Razorbills, Gannets and Kittiwakes, which are often seen associating with Whales. Storm Petrels are around and a good blow from the sea can produce rarer sea birds such as Corys Shearwater and Great Shearwater.

	Whales and Dolphins - click here for more information
	Cetaceans like Killer Whales have been seen more regularly and the occasional Humpback Whale is now recorded. Basking Sharks are around the Western Headlands at the end of the summer, and there are various species of Dolphins in our waters. A school of Bottle Nosed Dolphins entertained thousands of people on their way to Mull this summer. Dolphins come regularly into Tobermory Bay. You can go on a Whale Watch and see Minke Whales, Dolphins and sail among fascinating islands steeped in history.

	Birds of Prey - click here for more information
	Mull, however, is really noted for its Birds of Prey. Mull is one of the best places in Europe to see the Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) and White Tailed Sea Eagle. Hen Harrier, Merlin, Peregrine Falcon, Buzzard, Short Eared Owl, Kestrel and, of course, the two eagle species are expected to be seen by any wildlife enthusiast visiting Mull. However, wherever you are, in the remoter parts of the world, you should consider going out with a local guide, because this will obviously maximise your chances of seeing the more unusual species in any area. Nothing can really replace local knowledge.