Scotland is home to a truly stunning array of wildlife. The Cairngorms National Park and surrounding area offer some of the best wildlife watching opportunities in the British Isles.
Cairngorm Reindeer Centre
The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd is Britain’s only herd of reindeer, found free ranging in the Cairngorm mountains. Reindeer have been domesticated in Eurasia for at least 7,000 years, longer than the horse. Visit the centre and join a guided hill trip to meet the herd in their mountain home.
Highland Wildlife Park
Experience Scottish wildlife past and present in the spectacular setting of the Highland Wildlife Park. See the amazing variety of animals found in present day Scotland, then step back in time and meet the animals our ancestors must have known hundreds, even thousands of years ago. Drive around the Main Reserve in your own car and then explore the walk-round area on foot.
RSPB Insh Marshes
One of Europe’s most important wetlands. Around half of all British goldeneyes nest here in spring. You’re also likely to see lapwings, redshanks, curlews, oystercatchers, snipe and wigeon. The marshes flood in winter and provide roosting and feeding for flocks of whooper swans and greylag geese.
Loch Garten Osprey Centre
Loch Garten is famous for the ospreys that can be seen from the Osprey Centre in summer. As well as an excellent view of the nest, live video pictures are relayed back to the centre, where staff are on hand to explain what is happening.