Tour diary - Islay & Jura in Autumn, The Eagle Islands, 2023

28th October - 4th November 2023

The tour to the Scottish Hebridean islands of Islay and Jura began in Glasgow before traveling west to catch the ferry to Islay. From our single hotel base we explored diverse habitats including sea lochs, sandy bays, moorlands, and coastal cliffs. The wildlife highlights were exceptional, with a plethora of sightings of both Golden Eagles and White-tailed Eagles - the latter providing particularly memorable encounters at Ardnave Point where three immature birds gave close and prolonged views of their aerial antics. The islands' famous wintering goose populations were spectacular, including thousands of Barnacle Geese and Greenland White-fronted Geese, as well as Pink-footed, Brent, Greylag and the rare Cackling Goose. Other notable species included large flocks of Chough (up to 30 individuals), multiple Hen Harriers at roost sites, various seabirds, and marine mammals including Otters and Grey Seals.

A day trip to neighboring Jura revealed the island's wilder character, dominated by Red Deer (5,000 individuals versus 200 human residents) and even more eagle sightings.

The tour combined excellent wildlife viewing with fascinating and insightful visits to RSPB reserves, where site managers explained conservation management practices. Our local expertise enhanced the experience, from identifying rare vagrants like Bonaparte's Gull to several very close and prolonged nocturnal owl encounters. This very successful tour really highlighted the significance of Islay and Jura for both resident and migratory wildlife (particularly raptors and waterfowl), provided some unforgettable wildlife encounters and supported several conservation organisations through the tour.

Click on the button below to read the full tour diary.