Scotland has a wealth of wonderful nature across it’s shimmering lochs, endless coast, and beautiful Caledonian forests. RSPB Scotland’s Allie McGregor shares 5 things we love about our unique species and environment.
Five things we love about Scotland’s nature
It brings us joy
Whether it’s a majestic eagle or a cute fuzzy red squirrel, it’s hard not to find yourself smiling at Scotland’s nature. The sheer beauty of our landscape and the species that inhabit it is something that makes us happy. There’s even proven mental and physical health benefits of connecting with nature, and we think Scotland’s nature is some of the finest.
Scotland has an incredible range of habitats allowing many different species to make their home here.
From Machair to mountains, coastline to Caledonian pinewood, Scotland’s habitats make it a special place. Machair supports a variety of wild plants as well as species such as Corn Bunting and Great Yellow Bumblebees. Scotland has over 10,000 miles of coastline fringed with excellent marine habitats, our peat stores millions of tonnes of carbon, and the unique ecosystem of our Caledonian pine forests supports species found nowhere else in the British Isles.
Unique species
Partially thanks to our special habitats, we have several species in Scotland who are found in few or no other places across the British Isles.
We have the privilege of sharing our home with Scottish crossbill, capercaillie, crested tit, ptarmigan, and white-tailed eagles. Our exceptional wildlife isn’t limited to birds with invertebrates such as chequered skipper, New Forest burnet, and Pine Hoverfly. Scottish wildcats and the Orkney vole make for an even longer list of species we love in Scotland.
Our coast is as exciting as our land
With so many miles of coast line it’s not so surprising that Scotland is a fantastic place for seabirds. 70% of the UK’s seabird population is found in Scotland. Puffins are often a favourite with their bold coloured beaks. Razorbills, guillemots, gannets, and kittiwakes are just some of the other seabirds that grace our shores and they are equally delightful to see.
Scotland’s waters host a third of the UK’s grey seals, several dolphin and whale species, and the bizarrely beautiful basking shark.
Seeing the world in greater detail
Being so close to nature allows us the opportunity to see the world through a different lens. We have the privilege of being able to easily find a moment away from our usual routine to see spectacular flora and fauna. It reminds us of everything that is out there beyond us from the smallest shining guest ant to the gigantic golden eagle.
Our incredible nature gives us a chance to see so much more of this amazing world.
It’s impossible to summarise all of Scotland’s incredible nature – I would love to hear about what you love most about it!