A year of Islay wildlife, with Hannah and David Dinsley
Over the past 12 months, photographer and local RSPB warden (at Islay’s Mull of Oa) David Dinsley and his wife Hannah have been busy exploring the extraordinary world of wildlife on their doorstep here on Islay, documenting it on The Machrie’s Instagram channel.
From snorkelling the isle’s crystal clear waters and exploring technicolour rockpools at night under the light of the full moon, to birdwatching on The Machrie’s championship golf links, we’ve rounded up some of their highlights of the year, season by season, to inspire your own Islay wildlife adventure:
Spring
Birdwatching from your hotel bedroom window
Wake up to sea views, stroll through the dunes, and step into a world of wild avian beauty — right outside your room at The Machrie. Here are five birds you’ll likely spot during your stay:
Hen Harrier – with low, ghostly flights these raptors can be seen over the landscape surrounding The Machrie. Often visible from the road as you approach the entrance to the hotel, they’re a relatively common sight here on Islay.
Chough – Islay is the Scottish stronghold for this rare red-billed crow. They can often be seen feeding on The Machrie championship golf links, the dune system, and the seven-mile Laggan Bay nearby. The Machrie is an important area of feeding habitat for these birds and forms part of a larger network of vital habitats here on south Islay. They also do a good job of feeding on pest insects found on the links.
Sanderling – tiny wave-chasing shorebirds, you can watch sanderlings dart along the shoreline of Laggan Bay. Sunset is the perfect time to watch these wading birds darting about and avoiding the waves.
Stonechat – these small but distinctive songbirds can be seen amongst the dune system and on the road towards The Machrie entrance, often perching on fence posts and calling with their signature “chack” call. The call sounds like someone hitting two small stones together - hence the name ‘stone-chat.’
Oystercatcher – bold black-and-white waders, often heard piping loudly. These shorebirds can be seen almost anywhere around The Machrie. The beach will generally hold the largest numbers of them, though they will feed all around the hotel grounds on invertebrates under the soil and sand.
The iconic Highland ‘coo’
Majestic, tousle-haired, and unmistakably Scottish, Highland cows turn every windswept landscape into a postcard. Springtime, around March, April, and May, is an excellent time to see Scotland’s iconic Highland cows - or ‘Coo if you’re local - on Islay, as calving season means you'll have a chance to see new-born calves. However, Highland cows can be seen all year round because of their hardy nature.
Highland cows graze peacefully near the American Monument here on Islay. A quiet, powerful place full of history, nature, and moments of wild beauty. If you’re staying at The Machrie, we recommend driving up to the Mull of Oa for an encounter with these beautiful beasts in this dramatic landscape for yourself. Remember to always give cows the space they require and be mindful to keep dogs on leads, and away from them.
Summer
Snorkeling Islay’s crystal clear waters
Islay’s waters are warmest at the end of summer and early autumn, and it’s the perfect time to explore beneath the waves around Islay’s pristine shoreline. Islay is lucky enough to have beautifully clear water, teaming with life. From fascinating nudibranchs (sea slugs) to colourful fish, kelp forests and sea grass meadows, there is an endless amount to discover.
The south-east coast of Islay in particular, offers safe bays and beaches, easily accessible by car or on foot. A wetsuit is always a good edition to your packing list so that you can enjoy a longer snorkelling adventure. Always be sure to check the weather forecast and tidal conditions before entering the water. Stay close to shore and never go snorkelling alone.
Technicolour rockpools
Rock pooling is always fascinating, and you never know what you’ll find. But rock pooling at night is a different world altogether. With each full moon bringing the lowest of tides, conditions are perfect to discover some nocturnal sea creatures. UV torch in hand, as we scanned the rockpools, everything changed colour. Vibrant greens, oranges and pinks filled the water. Would you give it a go?
Autumn
From peaks and mulls to dramatic rock and cliff formations and golden sandy beaches, Islay’s varied landscape means there are hundreds of hiking and walking routes to explore. For some, the best time is from April to August due to longer daylight hours and milder weather. Meanwhile, autumn and winter offer dramatic scenery, fewer crowds and stormy weather, making it an excellent time for a quieter walk. These are our personal favourite walks on the Isle of Islay. And don’t get us started on our favourite beaches on Islay, that’s a whole another post!
An easy circular walk for those with kids. Stunning coastal cliff views. Plus a chance to spot highland cows, golden eagles, raven & more!
A short hike, but quite steep in parts. Stunning views across the south of the island. Find wildlife and folklore here
A bit of a longer walk with feral goats joining the journey, but worth it for spectral views of the Soldier’s Rock sea stack. Skirt the sea cave and waterfall with seabirds nesting within
Islay’s highest peak. A more strenuous walk, but offers the best views of the island you could ask for. Red deer lurk on the hills and wildflowers bloom between the heather
A trail not often trod, but well worth a walk. Visit the abandoned farm, rich with history of the Lords of the Isles. Spot seals, seabirds & even otters as you go.
Please watch out for ticks & adders when you’re out exploring, and be mindful of breeding birds, as well as lambing and calving season.
Winter
Soaring high over Islay’s rugged and peatland covered landscapes — both white-tailed eagles and golden eagles rule the skies here. Islay is one of the best places in Scotland to see both species of eagle. Golden eagles patrol the distant hills and moorlands, hunting hares and other birds, whilst the massive white-tailed eagle seems to soar all over the island’s airspace, often scavenging, fishing, or looking for a goose shaped snack.
The months of February and March can be a key time to observe them, as young birds from across Scotland join the resident breeding pairs, drawn on by the large population of overwintering Greenland geese. Keep your eyes up when staying at The Machrie, as you never know when you’ll spot these majestic hunters gliding overhead.
