GLENBORRODALE RSPB

Atlantic oak woodland plus mixed habitats to enjoy

This was a location I had always wanted to visit, as a friend had been the first-ever warden way back in the 1980s. The long stretch of land from Strontian to Kilchoan is amazing, with many views out into Loch Sunart, and the reserve is noted for its Atlantic oak woodland, heath and bog. More than 130 birds have been recorded here owing to these mixed habitats. The big three in spring are Redstart, Pied Flycatcher and Wood Warbler, but other notable birds include Tree Pipit, Spotted Flycatcher, Wheatear, Whinchat and Stonechat, the latter especially in winter. Both eagles are possible; I saw an adult White-tailed Eagle flying down Loch Sunart the moment I stepped out of my van after a night’s sleep! I wasn’t so lucky with Golden Eagle, but I know my youngest son has seen them here. Other birds of prey include Buzzard, Sparrowhawk and Kestrel, but both Merlin and Peregrine are much harder to see. Down along the shore both Oystercatcher and Common Sandpiper breed, while Snipe and Woodcock are back on the fell. Eider and Mallard breed on Loch Sunart, while the occasional Teal will use the bogs above the woodland. More than 634 species of flowering plant have been recorded around the reserve, which also supports in excess of 40 Stonechat species of liverwort, more than 70 mosses and more than 90 species of lichen. Some great dragonflies have been seen with Azure Hawker, Golden-ringed Dragonfly, Northern Emerald, Keeled Skimmer and Beautiful Demoiselle standing out. Butterflies include Pearlbordered Fritillary, Chequered Skipper and Large Heath. Purple Hairstreak are often found in July, high in the oak canopy. Mammals can be the tricky ones, especially if they only come out at night so look for prints in the mud along the trail, with possible Pine Marten and Wildcat a good bet. Adders are also likely in the sunny spots along the trail.