Bird Watching

The variety of habitats at Thrumster make our small corner a mecca for the birdwatcher.   The sea cliffs which form our Eastern border are one of the most important locations for many breeding colonies of seabirds, as well as ravens, skuas and peregrine falcons, which may be seen hunting on the inland areas.  Our moors are the haunt of a very wide range of birds, and one of the best places in the country to watch the beautiful hen harrier.  These may often be seen at quite close quarters, being the least shy of all our raptors.

The small-scale nature of farming on the crofts ensures that many of the farmland birds which have disappeared from the more efficient farms of other areas, are here in good numbers, and the air is always full of the sound of curlew, plover, larks and myriad other small birds.  The flocks of twites which are to be seen around North Yarrows, are quite a feature of the place, as they jink and turn in unison over the turnip fields.

The charm of a spring evening by the lochside, with no traffic noise, but the sounds of snipe drumming, the cock grouse defending his ground, and curlew calling as they have for countless generations. 

Indeed these hills have been the habitation of man for more than 5,000 years.  Look beyond the loch, and the ancient standing stones, and the tombs of the Neolithic peoples to whom they were home, look down on a scene which has hardly changed since those primeval days.

North Yarrows Cottage is available for rent throughout the season, and Lance, the keeper, is available for guidance and information on the bird life of the area.

From June to September, John O'Groats Ferries do birdwatching trips around the sea cliffs near the North coast - a wonderful and exciting experience.  Ask us for details.

North Yarrows Cottage - click for booking form and information