Wildlife on Mull

The Isle of Mull has a wide and varied variety of wildlife and birds and here in Lochdon we are very fortunate to have a many of them right on our doorstep.

On a visit to the island you may well be treated to a spectacular sighting of the White Tailed Sea Eagle soaring majestically on unbelievably huge wings, we consider ourselves very privileged that the Sea Eagle occasionally uses a craggy outcrop as a look- out post not far from the house. If you travel further afield you may be able to spot a Golden Eagle, not quite as large as the White Tailed Eagle but still a magnificent sight.

Another beautiful raptor that quarters the nearby moss and fields is the Hen Harrier, both the male, with stunning gray and white plumage, and female harrier can be seen and have successfully raised three chicks over the last two years.

The ghostly pale Barn Owl as it hunts for voles on the road verges and through the tussock grass is a sight to behold. In 2008 the pair that had taken up residence in the box we put up raised six chicks, a large brood and an indication that it was also a good year for the vole population too. Sadly in 2009 the pair failed to hatch their eggs as the weather was so poor in the early spring.

Other raptors can be seen in the vicinity with Sparrow Hawks zipping through the nearby wood in chase of smaller birds, Buzzards sitting in the trees waiting for some unfortunate animal becoming a road casualty (or in the lean times hunting for earthworms in the field that come to the surface after wet weather). We had a visiting Osprey last year that was seen fishing in the Loch.

In late Winter and early Spring we see many Hares, they are often still in their white Winter colouring which makes them stand out against the green field or brown tussock grass of the moss (hardly the camouflage it has evolved to be!) Mad March hares tend not to start until late April and even into early May when up to 14 hares can be seen chasing around in the distance. Interestingly later in the year we most often see hares on the seashore as if they go there to eat something specifc.

Otters are a shy and elusive animal but there are plenty of opportunities here on Mull to catch a glimpse of this delightful creature. We do see them in Lochdon and have also seen them playing off the ferry lanes in Craignure whilst waiting for the Isle of Mull ferry to berth so you never know where you might chance upon them.

Red deer regularly graze in the field in front of the house. It is mainly Stags but at rutting time, September through November, we’ll have a Stag with his large harem. Often at night the rival Stags can be heard roaring over their territory and collection of hinds.

At sea, if you take an organised boat trip, you can spot Harbour Dolphin, Porpoise, Grey and Common Seals, many sea birds and if you are lucky the huge Basking Shark. The waters off Mull are becoming one of the best places to see this massive fish. We also have Minke Whales and Orcas. A trip to Staffa will give you the chance to watch the comical Puffins at close hand.

We do hope that in your time here at High Oatfield you have the chance to see and experience some of this fantastic wildlife for yourself.

Article by © Jen Swift, Photographs © Phil McDermott & Jen Swift

To arrange your Bed and Breakfast stay at High Oatfield please email : Click here to email us or telephone Mike or Jen on 01680 812323 or 07733 483048 for further details.