Wilderness Guide and Wildlife expert Jonathan Willet shares some of his advice on the best Wildlife Watching in North Uist, Outer Hebrides.
Gannets
The whole archipelago of the Western Isles is outstanding for wildlife, but my personal favourite is the island of North Uist.
Arriving on North Uist: What to Spot from the Ferry
Most visitors arrive via the ferry from Uig on Skye. As you sail into Lochmaddy—named after the madadh or “dog rocks”—keep an eye out for Golden and Sea Eagles soaring over Li a Tuath, the hill to the south of the sea loch. You may also spot porpoises, and rafts of cooing Eider Ducks on the water.
Best Birdwatching Spots on North Uist
The road to Clachan (home of the famous Clachan Stores) is a great place to watch for Red-throated Divers on the surrounding lochs. Their haunting evening calls linger in the memory. Stop off at Barpa Langais, a chambered cairn, and climb up to get a better view of the moorland—ideal for scanning for birds of all sorts.
Hiking Eabhal: North Uist’s Highest Hill
For those keen to climb North Uist’s highest hill, Eabhal (pronounced ay-val), take the Loch Euphort (ee-fort) road along the coast. Look out for Otters along the way, then park up and walk through remote moorland to the summit. The views are spectacular, with land that appears to be 90% water thanks to the sheer number of lochs and lochans.
Visit Balranald RSPB Nature Reserve
Back at Clachan, turn right and head north to the Balranald RSPB Nature Reserve. Corncrakes are often heard here and have even been seen near the visitor centre. The surrounding machair is rich in wildflowers and insect life—a rare habitat found only in the Hebrides. It also supports crofting life.
When to Visit the Hebridean Machair
In May the machair lies dormant, but by July it’s in full bloom, bursting with colour and alive with pollinators drawn to the nectar-rich flowers.
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