Wild life

There is an abundance of wild life on Mull.  In fact many would suggest that to visit Mull and not see something special like sea eagles, otters, porpoise, whales, puffins, rare and commonbirds or wild and fallow deer, would mean that you had been very unlucky indeed - or had just not been looking!

The island is a paradise for birdwatchers, Bill Oddie has been enthralled with Mull in his Spring Watch programmes and Kate Humble writes every month in our local Round and About magazine, keeping us all updated with changing seasons and the arrival and departure of wild birds.

Resident breeding birds include some of the most spectacular birds of prey like Golden Eagle, White-tailed Sea Eagle, Merlin, Buzzard and Hen Harrier. We also have lots of singing Song Thrushes and Skylarks, now becoming much scarcer on the main land. Owls hoot in the night and woodpeckers work hard during the day - the list is almost endless as birds have a habit of turning up anywhere.

Mull is home to around 11 pairs of sea eagles out of total Scottish population of around 33 pairs. Britain’s largest bird of prey, this white-tailed eagle, is a magnificent sight and they are close to Tiroran. Take a trip with

Bryan Rains (wild about mull 01681 704229)

to learn how to spot them and other wonderful creatures.  This massive bird is the world’s fourth largest eagle, with a wingspan of up to 8 feet.

Otters are a common sight too - and if you are quiet - and willing to wait for them - they will often enthrall you with their playful antics, peaceful sunbathing on seaweed or active hunting and feeding (the otter pictures on the right were taken by guests last year on Tiroran Beach)

 In June & July there are carpets of wild Orchids to be enjoyed including, Fragrant Orchid, Lesser & Greater Butterfly Orchid and many others. There are rare Marsh Fritillary butterflies to be found, Scotch Argus and others.

The Isle of Mull is a favourite place for bird and wildlife watchers and has a large list of regularly seen species - Tiroran is a perfect base and place to start.