Tour Dairy - Mammals of the Highlands, from Beavers and Bats to Humpbacks and Hares, 2024

10th – 17th August 2024

What an absolutely spectacular week we had exploring the Scottish Highlands! Based at the magnificent Aigas Field Centre in the Beauly Valley, our group of mammal enthusiasts embarked on daily adventures that exceeded all expectations.

Our journey began with evening Beaver watching at the loch hide, where we were treated to incredible views of these remarkable ecosystem engineers going about their business. The west coast adventure proved extraordinary – spotting a playful dog Otter foraging beneath dramatic cliffs, whilst Black-throated Divers graced the waters of Firemore Beach and Harbour Seals lounged on barnacle-covered rocks.

The ferry crossing to Stornoway delivered cetacean magic! Five Humpback Whales, five Fin Whales, three Minkes, pods of Common Dolphins and several Harbour Porpoises put on an absolute show. Even battling strong winds on the return couldn't dampen our spirits as we logged more whale sightings! Back on the estate we had great views of Pine Marten from one of the hides whilst Red Squirrels entertained amongst the Scot’s Pines. The Cairngorm Mountain rewarded us with fabulous views of the normally elusive Crested Tits, whilst Strathdearn revealed Red Deer stags lounging in fields and Wild Goats grazing the hillsides and the Black Isle delivered Bottlenose Dolphins performing and many seabirds such as Gannets.

One of the highlights was meeting 'Coll' one of the magnificent Scottish Wildcats at Aigas's breeding facility; part of the crucial Saving Scotland's Wildcats project. But nothing could top our final evening's epic forty-five minute Badger encounter at the Quarry Hide, watching her methodically consume every last peanut and drop of honey!

Twenty-five mammal species, plus myriad birds and other wildlife, from Golden Eagles to Pine-tree Lappet moths, Raft Spiders to Violet Club fungi – this tour delivered nature at its absolute finest. Pure Highland magic!

Click on the button to read our 2024 tour diary…