Tips for birdwatching in the Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands are a haven for birdwatchers. From the majestic golden eagle to the haunting sounds of the Capercaillie, it’s a landscape which holds plenty of opportunities to experience birds in their natural habitat. And what better base than the Kingsmills Hotel? We’re a family friendly hotel close to Loch Ness, the Cairngorms and more. We have plenty of room for cars meaning after a long day in the wild looking for birds, you don’t need to worry about a night looking for a parking spot. 

Golden Eagle

Often top of birdwatchers lists when they visit the Highlands is often the golden eagle. This iconic bird of the Scottish Highlands can be seen soaring high overhead as it hunts for prey. Remote, mountainous regions are the best places to look. Even with wingspans over 2 metres, they can be elusive so keep your eyes to the sky! The best chance to see them include Glen Affric and the Cairngorms National Park. They can be found year-round, but are especially active in spring and summer as they hunt for food for their young. 

Sea eagle

The sea eagle or white tailed eagle is the largest bird of prey in the UK. It has a wingspan of 2.5 metres. It has been successfully re-introduced to Scotland after becoming extinct, and although it is still a rare sight, it seems to be thriving. If you want to see these eagles then you will have to travel west from Inverness. Areas like Garbh Eilean Wildlife Hide and Argyll Forest Park are good bets. 

Capercaillie

To see a Capercaillie has to be one of the most fantastic feelings for a birdwatcher, but to hear one is just as good! This large woodland grouse can be spotted in the ancient pine forests of the Highlands, for example in the Cairngorms National Park. April and May are the best times to see their extravagant courtship displays. They can be territorial though, so if you come near one, don’t do as David Attenborough did in the video below and get too close! 

Osprey

The osprey is a migratory bird of prey that can be seen in the Scottish Highlands during the spring. Lochs are the best place to see these fishing birds. They can be seen diving deep down into the water for their fishy dinner. The Loch Garten Osprey Centre in the Cairngorms National Park is an ideal place to visit and find out more about them. 

Ptarmigan

The ptarmigan is a small but hardy bird that thrives in the cold. This makes the Highlands of Scotland a perfect home! These types of grouse can change their plumage colour depending on the season. In summer they are grey and brown, like the stones around them. But in winter they change to bright white to blend in with the snow. They are present year-round, and can be found in the Cairngorm National Park

Relax back at the Kingsmills

So with such diverse habitats, from mountains to lochs and beaches, all within easy reach of the Kigsmills Hotel, you can return and relax in our friendly hotel. Even after a long day on your feet, you can feel better and unwind in our hotel spa, ready for tomorrow. Check out our special offers and book your birdwatching break today.