May and June are great months to explore the Hebridean Islands. It is difficult to guarantee sightings but the chances are very high. Recent reports suggested puffin numbers could be facing decline on the Isle of May due to a rise in oceanic tempe
ratures. However, local boatmen in the Inner Hebrides report the reverse. Are the birds moving from east to west? Sail to the Isle of Staffa and you can sit amongst hundreds of these friendly birds and they will happily pose for pictures.
2 RISE IN OCEAN TEMPERATURESThe water around the Isle of Mull is warmed by the Gulf Stream and supports a range of marine life. Basking sharks, Minke whales, dolphins, porpoise, otters and seals are common sights around the Isle of Mull. Bring binoculars and a camera and you won't be disappointed. Take the one-hour sail from Iona to Staffa on the MB Iolaire and the captain will point them out.
3 HEARD BUT NOT SEEN – 'CREK CREK'Within a few steps of setting foot on the magical isle of Iona, you will hear the rasping call of the corncrake. These elusive ground-nesting birds are heard but not often seen. However, I was fortunate to spot one in the organic garden on 16 May. It was hopping along the clipped grass and into a clump of wild iris where it was obviously nesting. A number of twitchers were nearby with their lenses facing the opposite way!
4 WHITE-TAILED SEA EAGLESThe following week, I had a fairly close encounter with a white-tailed sea eagle around the head of Loch na Keal. My attention was drawn to a squabble on the lochside. The sea eagle was being harried by the local gulls who objected to him fishing on their patch. However, the gulls were no match for this titan. With his catch secure, he soared skywards towards some nearby fir trees.
5 GOLDEN EAGLESAtmospheric Glen More or the cliffs on the west side of Mull are likely places to spot Scotland's national bird. Take your time and aim your binoculars high. Your patience may be rewarded when you see the unmistakeable shape of this iconic bird soaring above you. Wings over Mull is a hospital for road traffic victims – they currently have two injured eagles which cannot be released back into the wild. Eventually, it is hoped they will mate and any resulting offspring will be set free.
• Bells Executive Tours offers a fantastic five-day wildlife tour (01592 204060)
The full article contains 430 words and appears in The Scotsman newspaper.
