Published in Scotland Magazine Issue 22 on 10/08/2005.

This article is 39 months old and some information provided may be time sensitive. Please check all details of events, tours, opening times and other information before travelling or making arrangements.

Go wild in the country

Marieke Smegan argues that wildlife alone is worth visiting Scotland for

Scotland has an amazing number of animals. There are hundreds of different species of birds, mammals and sea animals, some of which are quite easy to spot. To list them all would be impossible. However, Scotland houses plenty of visitor centres and nature reserves, which make the wildlife even more accessible. From day trips to week long holidays, it is all available for any (‘wannabe) wildlife enthusiast.

Scottish Seabird Centre / Bass Rock.
The Harbour, North Berwick, EH39 4SS.
Tel: +44 (0)1620 890 202
http://www.seabird.org
The Scottish Seabird Centre is an ideal place to go for easy access to seabirds. The centre has closed circuit television cameras placed on several islands in the Firth of Forth – among them on the Bass Rock, Fidra and the Isle of May. As a visitor to the centre you can navigate around the islands by moving the cameras. The Bass Rock houses a huge colony of gannets. In summertime you will also see puffins, while sightings of seals and the occasional dolphin happen all year round.
Weather permitting, the Seabird Centre also organises boat trips to Bass Rock. These two hour trips include an hour stay on the island. Boat trips only take place in the summer, contact the centre for details.
Entry to the visitor centre is £5.95 for adults and £3.95 for concessions. Boat trips are £21 for adults or £17 for concessions.

Argaty Red Kites.
Lerrocks Farm, Argaty, Doune, Perthshire,FK16 6EJ.
Tel: +44 (0)1786 841 373
http://www.argatyredkites.co.uk
The RSPB and .....

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By Marieke Smegen

Section : Scottish Wildlife

Page number : 24