Mull of Galloway
Every year i make a visit to the most southerly point of Scotland - The Mull of Galloway. The tip of the peninsula is also an RSPB reserve famous for its nesting seabirds as well as an iconic lighthouse. This point jutting into the Irish sea is a meeting point for 9 tidal currents which churns up a lot of nutrients making it a great place to spot wildlife. Here is a selection of images from previous visits…
Shags
House Martin
Gannet
Meadow Pipit
On a clear day, you can see the Isle of Man to the south, Northern Ireland to the west as well as England to the east. It is actually much closer to Belfast than it is to Glasgow or Edinburgh! Seabirds such as Gannets, Razorbills, Guillemots, Kittiwakes, Shags and the odd Puffin arrive in the spring to nest on the cliffs. It can be a hot spot for migrant birds stopping briefly for a rest before heading off over the vast stretches of water. If you watch the sea for long enough there can be various citations including Whales, Dolphins and Porpoises as well as Seals and if you are very lucky - Basking Sharks (Although I have never been that lucky yet!)
Gannets
Shags
Isle of Man Ferry
Linnet
The lighthouse itself is open to visitors who can pay to climb the 115 steps to the top. Visitors can also venture down to the fog horn which is the only operational foghorn in mainland Scotland. There is a visitor centre and cafe available too which can make a welcome shelter when the weather turns! Whilst the area is a popular tourist attraction in itself, I obviously take most notice of the wildlife. A quick visit into the RSPB visitor centre is always a must to see what has been seen recently and the volunteers there are always happy to point you in the right direction for spotting any particular wildlife you want to see. A must visit spot if you are ever in the Dumfries and Galloway region of Scotland!
Herring Gull
Stonechat