Ride the waves on a marine tour to see a surprising variety of wildlife

You may think you need to go to the Scottish Highlands to see amazing wildlife but Arran boasts some of the most impressive wild sights in Scotland. Boat trips around the coastline have a great deal to offer wildlife lovers in Ayrshire & Arran this winter.

 

Ailsa Craig is an imposing rock which rises to more than 1,000 ft. This designated Site of Special Scientific Interest and Special Protection Area, is home to large flocks of birds that gather to feed, or fly at dusk to form large roosts, keeping them warm. Look out for seals and porpoises as you sail through the waters with an expert.

 

Around the region, birdwatchers should look out for shelduck, merganser and eider, which are present all year round and joined in the winter months by wigeon, goldeneye and teal.

Arran is also an ideal place to spot a golden eagle, which you'll find inland of the glens. Winter is a good time to see the UK's second biggest bird of prey, as this is when the adults are starting to establish their breeding territories for the coming year.

 

Find out about Ayrshire & Arran’s wildlife.