Birdwatching

The surrounding area of Windyheads Bothy is home to a very diverse population of birds and wildlife. This population makes up for a significant presence of Scotland’s speciality birds, making this area perfect for keen birdwatchers.

peregrine falcon BW | Falcon tattoo, Falcon art, Falcon drawing

The costal strip between Aberdeen and Fraserburgh, with good spots at Girdleness, Balmedie, Newburgh, Cruden Bay and Rattray, is the essential place to visit whenever there is a south-easterly wind. All of the regular passage birds can be seen, as well as good numbers of real rarities.

This region holds the record for the most species of birds seen in 24 hours (in Scotland) and is second only to Norfolk for the UK.

  • Capercaillie: This large grouse is one of the rarest birds in the UK, and can be found in the pine forests of Aberdeenshire. The best time to see capercaillie is during the breeding season in spring, when males can be heard calling from their territorial display grounds.
  • Osprey: This large bird of prey can be seen fishing in the rivers and lochs of Aberdeenshire during the summer months. Ospreys are a conservation success story, having been brought back from the brink of extinction in the UK.
  • Golden eagle: This majestic bird of prey can be found in the upland areas of Aberdeenshire, particularly in the Cairngorms National Park. Golden eagles are a protected species in the UK, and are known for their impressive hunting skills and distinctive call.
  • Dotterel: This small wading bird can be found on the upland heaths and moors of Aberdeenshire during the breeding season. Dotterel are a rare and elusive species, and are prized by birdwatchers for their striking plumage and unique courtship behavior.
  • Snow bunting: This small, sparrow-like bird can be found on the upland plateaus and moors of Aberdeenshire during the winter months. Snow buntings are well adapted to life in the harsh Scottish winters, and are known for their distinctive white plumage.