Whales
There are several whales present around the Hebrides, including Sperm, Killer, Northern Bottlenose
and Sei whales. However, the commonest is certainly the Minke whale, which grows to about 10 metres
and has a distinct white patch on its flippers. They will often approach a boat closely. They are
still being commercially hunted by Norway and Japan. If you have seen a whale and wonder what
it was, try this whale identification site.
The summer of 2004 gave us some superb whale watching opportunities including an unusual visit from a Humpback whale.
Dolphins
The Hebrides has many dolphins, some like the porpoise, which are resident all year round. Some
like the Common Dolphin which show themselves in June and again in Oct/Nov, in groups of from
twenty to several hundred. Other species which are often seen, are Risso's, Bottlenose, White-sided,
and White-beaked dolphins.
Basking Sharks
The second biggest fish in the world, growing up to 12 metres in length. But don't worry, they feed
only on plankton. Sightings tend to vary a lot from year to year, but in the Small Isles, late summer
is best. Although protected from British fishermen, the UK still allows Norway to catch them in
our waters. For more information, contact the Marine Conservation Society.
On the shoreline
Otters - are seen at Doune and around the islands, close to the shore and more rarely
inland (even up to the tops of the hills). Best
time to see them is around low water, when they find the hunting easiest. Although
common, there is concern about their continued success, with the gradual increase of
mink all over the Hebrides. Seals - both Common and Grey Seals are seen regularly in the area, there being
several large colonies in the Small Isles. In 1999 there was a rare visit
to Loch Scavaig, by a Bearded Seal down from the Arctic. Grey seal pups are white (unlike Commons)
and are born on remote beaches in Oct/Nov.
On the hill
Red Deer - often seen on the hills of Knoydart, but difficult to get near to
(except the ones that come down to the houses at Doune each evening).
These days, seen as a bit of a 'baddie' with respect to the regeneration of
native woodlands, but very much an important part of the way of life
in the Highlands. Calves are born in May (leave young calves well alone if you
come across one). Stag culling is in Sept/Oct and you may be asked to help local
estates by using certain routes to the hills. The Isle of Rum
is actively involved in deer research.
Around the islands
Puffins GannetsGuillemots
There isn't anywhere better in the country for seeing marine birds. From the
huge Gannet cities of St Kilda, to the busy puffins of Canna, Mingulay and the Shiants. From the
tiny Storm Petrel to the mighty White tailed Sea Eagle. Or the unforgettable experience of a night
with the Shearwaters of Rum or Eigg.
If you are particularly interested in the wildlife of this area, have a look at Dounes'
special wildlife week.
Puffins
Gannets
Guillemots