Shetland Nature and Wildlife
Shetland is home to a wealth of wildlife. The more noticeable animals which share our island are seals, cetaceans, otters, birds and a wide diversity of flora and plant life. We are also fortunate to have domestic animals which have adapted to the harsh climate here, such as Shetland ponies, Shetland sheepdogs, Shetland cattle, Shetland sheep, Shetland hens. In a similar vein there are local varieties of wild animals such as the Shetland wren and the Shetland starling.
Birdlife
In summer, thousands of sea-birds nest and breed in huge colonies on the sea cliffs. Numerous species of 'land' birds native to the islands can also be seen, and many migrants choose Shetland as a seasonal home.
In addition, ornithologists in Shetland often identify rarities blown off course from their intended migratory paths. Fair Isle is a particularly good location to spot rare species, and the island's bird observatory attracts many birdwatchers every year.
Marine Life
Common Seal
A young common seal waving goodbye
Image courtesy of the
Bobby Tulloch Collection: www.bobbytulloch.com
The seas surrounding Shetland are abundant with life, including whales, dolphins, sharks and other mammals. Around the coast, otters and seals can often be seen.
Featured Sites:
Other Links:
- Seabirds and Seals
- Boat trips to the 'seabird cities' of Noss.
- Shetland Wildlife
- Wildlife holidays in Shetland.
- The Mousa Ferry
- Boat trips to the island of Mousa.
- Hugh Harrop
- Amazing wildlife photography by Hugh Harrop.
