Land
Wester Ross is blessed with some of the most diverse wildlife in Europe. We have a multitude of habitats from the snow covered peaks of the Torridons, right down to the coast and out into the North Minch - This is where you can still find some of the most elusive and fascinating native wildlife in the UK.
Starting in the high peaks where Ptarmigan roam, grazes the largest of our native British land mammals, the Red Deer - above, patrols the Enigmatic Golden Eagle. As we lose altitude towards the tree line, hidden valleys and native Caledonian forest harbour Scotland’s Pine Martin and Wild cat…..and where this meets enchanting lochs like Loch Maree, an abundance of rare wildlife is on offer with the highest concentration of Black-throated Divers in Scotland.
The extensive lowland heath and moor land are home to Hen Harriers and Red Grouse, with Red Deer moving down through these areas to rut and overwinter.
Where the land meets the sea, the diversity increases with the highest concentration of Otters in Europe. The sheltered bays, deep tidal Lochs, and open sea hold mirror images of the land, with huge under water mountains that combine with the Gulf Stream to create the most diverse Marine environment in Europe.
So, what can you reasonably expect to see here? First of all, forget the "tourist board" type of information that leads many visitors to expect hordes of Eagles darkening the skies, while you battle your way along woodland trails festooned in Otters and Wildcat. They are all there! But many of them are solitary, secret animals - and they see you well beofre you can see them!
We are awaiting text for the balance of this section - meanwhile, here's a picture of some of the local wildlife to keep you occupied for a few minutes.....
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Jeff Gilberston, Florida