Ardnamurchan Estate

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Wildlife

Birds | Mammals | Observations

Birds

Thanks to the diversity of habitats, bird-watching on the peninsula is extremely rewarding.

Sea and golden eagle, buzzard, hen harrier, peregrine, sparrowhawk, kestrel and merlin are all present. In this remote area it’s not always necessary to go to great lengths to see rarities – birds of prey are regularly to be seen hunting from the road or garden. Corncrakes boldly disturb the peace for many houses throughout spring and early summer. We can look forward to more birdlife on the doorstep as the wildlife gardens develop - bird tables are encouraging a number of species into closer proximity, and to provide an intimate view of the garden birds we are installing “birdcams” in nest-boxes near some of the houses.

Portable hides can be used by prior arrangement. We make use of these in research and welcome feedback from others. For this purpose we are putting observations books in the houses and will post online any reports phoned or emailed.

You will appreciate that there are a number of rare species breeding here, and we welcome your support in protecting these. Please be on the lookout for any suspicious behaviour, and avoid likely nest sites during the breeding season. If you do chance upon a nest we ask that you share details of your find only with estate staff.

Mammals

You are certain to see red deer, particularly in the morning and evening. In summer the spotted calves accompany their mother’s on their nocturnal visits to enjoy richer grazing in the fields. In autumn stags roar their challenge across the hills and can be heard just by stepping outdoors.

You are also likely to see roe deer, otter, pine marten, fox and badger. So you can wait in comparative comfort you are welcome to arrange to use one of the hides, used by the estate for monitoring wildlife.

We are working to increase our understanding of resident populations, you’re your observations will help inform our management, so we’d be delighted to receive any reports.