Print pageSeasonal highlights
Each season brings a different experience at our nature reserves. In spring, the air is filled with birdsong as they compete to establish territories and attract a mate. In summer, look out for young birds making their first venture into the outside world. Autumn brings large movements of migrating birds - some heading south to a warmer climate, others seeking refuge in the UK from the cold Arctic winter. In winter, look out for large flocks of birds gathering to feed, or flying at dusk to form large roosts to keep warm.
Spring
In spring, Dunnet Head is a great place to see puffins, razorbills, guillemots, fulmars, kittiwakes, shags and cormorants. Be prepared to experience the sights, sounds and smells of a busy seabird colony! Early in the season, watch the birds constructing their precarious nests and performing courtship dances.
Summer
Summer sees the seabird chicks growing up. Their parents will be frantically fishing and bringing food to their offspring, but the cliffs become quieter as the youngsters learn to fly and eventually make their way out to sea.
Autumn
On a clear day, there are wonderful views over Caithness and Sutherland and across the sea to Orkney.
What can I do?
Join the RSPB and support our work.
Join today