Birdwatching in the Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands is a haven for birdwatchers. From the majestic golden eagle to the haunting sounds of the capercaillie, this is a landscape that holds plenty of opportunities to experience birds in their natural habitat. And what better base than the Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness? We’re a family-friendly hotel close to Loch Ness, the Cairngorms and more. So, let’s take a look at some of the birds you might find on a birdwatching break in the Scottish Highlands…

Golden eagle

This iconic bird of the Scottish Highlands soars 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 are here all 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. 

Osprey

The osprey is a migratory bird of prey, here in the Scottish Highlands during the spring and summer. Lochs are the best place to see these fishing birds, as they dive deep down into the water for their fishy dinner. The Loch Garten Osprey Centre 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.

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 likes 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! 

Black Grouse

Similar to a capercaillie, but significantly smaller, the black grouse prefers the woodland and moorlands of the Scottish Highlands. Also known for their unique courtship displays, the males gather at dawn on moorlands to perform leks. With their glossy black feathers, lyre-shaped tails and red wattles, they are a stunning sight.

Red Grouse

Found in Scotland’s heather moorlands, the red grouse is a robust bird with a warm chestnut-brown plumage and white leg feathers. They fly low over the heather at high speed and prefer to nest on the ground.

Common / Scottish Crossbill

This type of finch thrives in the coniferous forests of the Highlands, feeding on seeds. Its distinctive crossed bill allows it to extract seeds from pine cones efficiently. Males are typically red-orange, while females are green-yellow-brown. Lsiten for their chattering calls among the treetops. The Common Crossibll and Scottish Crossbill are almost identical, however, the latter has a larger bill.

Dipper

The dipper is a fascinating little bird, which dives into fast-flowing streams to catch freshwater invertebrates. Its rounded body, dark plumage and white chest make it easily recognisable. Often seen bobbing on rocks, the dipper’s unique behaviour is a highlight of Highland waterways.

Whooper Swan

A winter visitor, look for the whooper swan in the Highland waters and wetlands. With bright yellow and black bills, these migratory birds form noisy, social groups. Their whooping calls resonate across still waters, giving them their unique name.

Relax back at the Kingsmills

So with such diverse habitats, from mountains to lochs and beaches, all within easy reach of the Kingsmills 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.