Wildlife Watching in Wester Ross

Planning your NC500 adventure? Shieldaig Lodge is the perfect stop for all nature lovers. Within and around our estate is incredible wildlife, from red deer roaming the hills to playful sea otters in the bay. And as our historic hunting lodge is perfectly positioned on the edge of the loch, our guests have one of the best seats in the house for spotting it all. Add in our unique falconry experience, and you’ve got the perfect base for a nature-filled Highland adventure. So, if you’re looking for things to do near Shieldaig Lodge, you’re in for a treat.

What to bring

Binoculars – these are crucial for spotting sea birds in the distance and getting a closer look at other animals without disturbing them

Camera – for capturing these special wildlife encounters – make sure to have a good zoom lens that’s also weatherproof as the Scottish Highlands can be wet!

What wildlife will you spot and where?

With a bit of patience, our peaceful corner of the Scottish Highlands offers plenty of opportunities to spot some of the region's most spectacular species in their natural habitats, without having to stray too far. 

Red Deer

These deer have made the hills and forests around the lodge their home and the area is known for its red deer population. Why not take a walk and see how many you can spot?

White-Tailed Sea Eagles

You are more likely to spot the magnificent White-Tailed Sea Eagle in the surrounding upland areas. Enjoy a leisurely walk to find them, or try one of our Sea Kayaking Tours! Led by local experts, who will help you observe them from the water, this fun Watersport activity gets you closer to the nearby Shieldaig Island where many of the pairs nest.

Otters and seals

Our lodge is nestled right on the shore of Shieldaig Bay, which opens onto Loch Torridon – a prime viewing point for spotting marine wildlife such as otters and seals. These playful creatures are often seen playing in the water, so why not head down there and have a look? Again, our Sea Kayaking Tours are a great opportunity to get closer to these beautiful animals. If you're staying at the hotel, many of the rooms at the lodge offer beautiful views of the loch, making it possible to spot these seals from the comfort of your bedroom.

Best time of the year for wildlife watching in Wester Ross

Wester Ross is a haven for nature lovers; there’s breathtaking wildlife to see all year round. Each season brings something unique to discover, so here's what to expect and when:

Spring

Spring is a fantastic time to spot a wide variety of bird species as they are returning to Wester Ross from their southern migrations. Birds of prey are particularly active during springtime, making them easier to observe. While otters can be seen all year round, spring offers especially good opportunities to catch a glimpse of them along the coast and in rivers.

Summer

During the summer months, wildlife is typically most active. This makes it a great time for birdwatching and spotting a wide range of species. Plus, the weather is better! It’s the perfect season to get outside and soak up all the natural beauty around you.

Autumn

Autumn brings a quieter, more dramatic beauty to Wester Ross, and with it, some incredible wildlife moments. From September to October, the red deer rutting season is in full swing making it the best time of the year to spot them!  It’s also pupping season for the seals, so they come ashore to rest with their newborns – a truly remarkable sight.

Winter

Whilst it's quieter in the winter, it’s still a wonderful time for wildlife watching. Typically, the deer descend from the hills in search of food making sightings more common and special. The seals and winter-migrating bird species reminding us that nature's beauty doesn’t take a break even when it’s cold!

Tips for spotting wildlife early in the morning and at dusk

There's something truly special about spotting wildlife during the early hours of the morning and as night falls. These quieter hours tend to offer the best opportunities to catch wildlife in action, and here are some simple tips that will help you make the most of them.

To improve your chances of spotting wildlife, stay quiet, take your time, and try to blend in! Patience really is key. Wearing muted, natural colours instead of bright clothing can also make a big difference, as this helps you become part of the landscape rather than standing out from it.

Otter spotting

The best time to see otters is at dawn, or about two hours before high tide. These creatures are nocturnal, so they come out to feed at night. Head down to the water’s edge, and you might just spot their distinctive webbed toe prints in the mud!

Deer spotting

Dusk and dawn are the best times to see these deer, so look between the trunks of the trees and into the shadowy corners of the forest and don't forget to look out for hoof prints!

Seal spotting

Low tide is an ideal time to spot seals as they often haul themselves out of the water to sunbathe. Early mornings and late afternoons are also ideal times for seal spotting as it’s cooler, and this is when they're most active. Seals have a strong sense of smell so staying downwind helps them from detecting your presence.

White-tailed Sea Eagles

Dawn and dusk are both lovely times to head out for some Scottish Highland birdwatching as the birds are more active and the light is beautiful. They'll either be hunting for insects or fish in the mornings, or returning to their roosts for the night. The stillness of these early hours are incredibly peaceful and offer rewarding experiences.

How to observe without disturbing

When watching wildlife, it's important to respect their space. Try to keep a safe distance and enjoy observing from afar, as getting too close can cause stress for some of these animals. It’s also best to stick to paths, and don't get near to or disturb any nests. If you are out adventuring with your dog, be sure to keep them on a lead – deer and seals generally don't want to make any new furry friends!

Wildlife experiences at Shieldaig Lodge

Falconry Experience

Fancy something a bit different? Our Lodge has partnered with Falconry Scotland to give you the opportunity to fly owls and majestic birds of prey in our beautiful grounds. Every experience can be tailored to make it just right for you and your family.

Why a luxurious Scottish hotel and unforgettable wildlife are the perfect pair

So, if you’re dreaming of a getaway with nature quite literally on your doorstep, Shieldaig Lodge Hotel is the perfect place to be. You don’t have to go far to spot otters playing in the bay, deer roaming the forests, or eagles soaring overhead. After a day spent on a Sea Kayaking Tour, try your hand at falconry or simply soaking up the sights from the comfort of our well-stocked bar or fine-dining restaurant. And you can rest from a day exploring the sites in our cosy bedrooms.

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