) to insert bird names in your own language. The birdnames will automatically be translated for other users!
Upload images
Allowed image types are jpeg,png,gif
Max file size is 20MB
Description
Loch Gruinart is one of the best places in Scotland to see alppivaris (northernmost nesting site), ruisrääkkä (a few) and wintering geese (up to 50,000, mostly sepelhanhi, valkoposkihanhi, merihanhi and lyhytnokkahanhi, plus laulujoutsen). The RSPB reserve has a hide, a visitor centre and Natural history centre. Birds here include merikotka, maakotka, ampuhaukka, sinisuohaukka, Luhtakana, luhtahuitti, 16 regular wader species, 3 tern species, 3 diver species, suopöllö, vuorihemppo and luotokirvinen.
At the sea end of the loch, Ardnare Point is a good seawatch location for viewing suula, divers, shearwaters, skuas, auks and sea ducks such as alli, mustalintu and tukkakoskelo. Best place also for alppivaris. Ardnare loch is favoured by wintering dabbling ducks - tavi, haapana, harmaasorsa and Lapasorsa.
Details
Access
Islay is reached by ferry from the mainland at Kennacraig, docking at Port Ellen and Port Askaig. Recent reports suggest the CalMac ferry fleet is aging and unreliable, delays are possible. Nearest bus stop is 3 miles away, see website below. By car from Bowmore/Bridgend, car park at the reserve. Click on the P in the map to get directions.