Bird Watching on the North Coast 500: A Guide to Spotting and Protecting Birds

The North Coast 500 is a scenic route in the Scottish Highlands that covers over 500 miles of beautiful coastline, rugged mountains, and stunning lochs. The area is known for its diverse wildlife, including many species of birds. Here are some of the birds you might see on the North Coast 500:

1. Golden eagle: This majestic bird of prey is one of the largest birds in the UK and can be spotted soaring over the mountains. With its impressive wingspan and keen eyesight, it is a sight to behold.
2. Osprey: These impressive birds hunt fish in the lochs and rivers along the route, and you may see them diving into the water to catch their prey. Their unique fishing technique is a fascinating sight for bird enthusiasts.
3. Red-throated diver: This bird is often seen swimming in the lochs, and its distinctive call can be heard echoing across the water. Its elegant movements and beautiful plumage make it a favorite among birdwatchers.
4. Common sandpiper: You might spot these small wading birds along the riverbanks, darting in and out of the water as they hunt for insects. Their delicate appearance and quick movements make them a joy to watch.
5. Common buzzard: This is one of the most common birds of prey in the UK, and you may see them perched on fence posts or soaring over the fields. Their graceful flight and sharp eyesight make them excellent hunters.
6. Black-throated diver: This is another species of diver that can be spotted in the lochs along the route, and its striking black and white plumage makes it easy to spot. Its unique appearance and diving skills make it a sought-after sighting.
7. Peregrine falcon: These birds are known for their incredible speed and agility, and you might see them hunting along the cliffs and crags of the coast. Their breathtaking aerial displays are a treat for bird watchers.
8. Twite: This small finch is often found in coastal areas, and you may hear their high-pitched calls as they feed on seeds and insects. Their cheerful chirping adds a delightful soundtrack to any birdwatching experience.
9. Common gull: These gulls can be seen all along the coast, and their distinctive call is a familiar sound in the area. Their scavenging behavior and adaptability make them a common sight for visitors.
10. Great skua: These large seabirds are sometimes called "pirates of the sea" because they will steal food from other birds, and you may see them patrolling the coast looking for prey. Their bold behavior and striking appearance make them an exciting find.

Bird Spotting Hides on the North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 is a great place to spot birds, with many areas of stunning natural beauty that are home to a diverse range of bird species. While there are no formal bird hides along the route, there are still many great places to spot birds. Here are some suggestions for places where you might be able to spot birds on the North Coast 500:

1. Forsinard Flows Nature Reserve: This reserve is home to a wide range of birds, including hen harriers, golden plovers, and dunlins. There are several walking trails throughout the reserve, and the visitor center has information on the best places to spot birds. The tranquil surroundings and abundant birdlife make it a birdwatcher's paradise.
2. Handa Island: This uninhabited island off the coast of Sutherland is home to thousands of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills. There are no hides on the island, but you can walk around and observe the birds from a safe distance. The rugged cliffs and bustling colonies provide a unique opportunity to witness seabirds in their natural habitat.
3. Loch Fleet National Nature Reserve: This reserve is a great place to spot wading birds such as oystercatchers and curlews. There is a car park and several walking trails throughout the reserve. The peaceful atmosphere and diverse bird species make it a must-visit location for bird enthusiasts.
4. Dornoch Firth and Loch Fleet: This area is a designated Special Protection Area (SPA) for birds, and is home to large numbers of waders, ducks, and other waterbirds. There are several viewpoints along the A9 where you can observe the birds. The scenic views and abundance of birdlife make it a perfect spot for birdwatching.
5. Loch Ewe: This sea loch is home to a large population of great northern divers, as well as other waterbirds such as red-breasted mergansers and common scoters. There are several spots along the loch where you can observe the birds from the shore. The tranquil waters and diverse bird species create a serene birdwatching experience.

Remember to always respect the wildlife and their habitats, and to observe them from a safe distance.

Protected Birds on the North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 route in the Scottish Highlands is home to a wide variety of birds, some of which are protected under UK law. It's important to be aware of these protected birds and their habitats to ensure their conservation. Here are some of the protected bird species that can be found along the North Coast 500:

• Golden eagle: The golden eagle is one of the most iconic birds in the UK and is fully protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. This means that it is illegal to intentionally or recklessly kill, injure or disturb these birds, or damage or destroy their nests. The protection of these magnificent birds is crucial for their survival.
• Osprey: Ospreys are also protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, and it is illegal to intentionally or recklessly disturb or destroy their nests. Preserving their nesting sites is essential for the conservation of these impressive birds.
• Hen harrier: The hen harrier is a bird of prey that has suffered from illegal persecution in some parts of the UK. They are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, and it is illegal to intentionally or recklessly kill, injure or disturb these birds, or damage or destroy their nests. Protecting these vulnerable birds is vital for maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.
• Red-throated diver: Red-throated divers are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, and it is illegal to intentionally or recklessly kill, injure or disturb these birds, or damage or destroy their nests. Preserving their habitats is crucial for the survival of these beautiful divers.
• Corncrake: The corncrake is a rare bird that is fully protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. It is illegal to intentionally or recklessly kill, injure or disturb these birds, or damage or destroy their nests. Safeguarding their breeding grounds is essential for the conservation of these elusive birds.
• Common eider: Common eiders are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, and it is illegal to intentionally or recklessly kill, injure or disturb these birds, or damage or destroy their nests. Preserving their nesting sites is crucial for the survival of these fascinating sea ducks.
• Black-throated diver: Black-throated divers are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, and it is illegal to intentionally or recklessly kill, injure or disturb these birds, or damage or destroy their nests. Protecting their habitats is essential for the conservation of these striking divers.

Remember to always respect the wildlife and their habitats, and to observe them from a safe distance. If you see any illegal activity or disturbance of these protected birds, you can report it to the police or the RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds).