Roaming the highlands

Land Animals Near Fort WilliamHere is some of the wildlife you could see on the ground around Highwinds Holiday Lodge.

Deer

This is Scotland’s largest deer. During the autumnal breeding season males (the rut) bellow to proclaim their territory and will fight over the females. Make sure you respect them – please don’t get too close.

For a chance to see the Red Deer head to Aonach Mor, Creag Meagaidh National Nature Reserve, Isle of Rum or Glencoe, they’re all over the Highlands.

Highland Cows

The glorious Highland cattle (or coos as they are locally referred to!), are one of the most iconic sights of Rural Scotland. They’re very beautiful and ridiculously Instagram-able! If you’d like to see one please do send us a message and we may be able to give you a specific location.

For a chance to see the Highland cattle head to the end of Glen Nevis or to Creag Meagaidh, there are some by the car park.

Red Squirrels

Britain has just 160,000 red squirrels, and 75% of them live in Scotland. They feed, nest and breed in trees and need a good amount of well managed woodland to survive.

For a chance to see the red squirrels head to Inchree Falls, Creag Meagaidh National Nature Reserve and if you’re really lucky out by Highwinds.

Mountain Hare

An iconic Highland species, the mountain hare is well camouflaged, which makes it hard to spot! In winter their fur turns completely white, with only the tips of their ears staying black.

For a chance to see the mountain hare head to Aonach Mor, Creag Meagaidh National Nature Reserve

Pine Marten

The pine marten is a cat-sized member of the weasel family. There are estimated to be 3,700 adult pine martens in Scotland. You’re most likely to find them in woodland areas.

For a chance to see the pine marten head to Aonach Mor, Creag Meagaidh National Nature Reserve, Allt Mhuic Butterfly Reserve

Wildcat

This is one of the most elusive animals in Britain and very tricky to spot. Scottish wildcats prefer to live on the edge of woodlands and on the mountains and moorlands, with rough grazing. They generally avoid the high mountain areas.

For a chance to see the wildcat head to Creag Meagaidh National Nature Reserve