Print pageStar species
Our star species are some of the most interesting birds you may see on your visit to the reserve.
Arctic skuas are fierce seabirds described as 'piratical' - they chase other birds, such as terns, and force them to give up their food. They come to Mousa to breed but spend all their other time at sea. |  |
Arctic terns have the longest migration of any bird. From their Arctic breeding grounds, they fly as far as Antarctica. They nest on Mousa but be careful not to stray too close to their nests, as they will attack! |  |
In Shetland, black guillemots are known as 'tysties'. Watch for them swimming around on the sea on fishing expeditions. In the clear water, you might spot their bright red feet. |  |
Great skuas have similar antisocial habits to their Arctic cousins. Be careful you don't get too close to their nests as they have little hesitation in divebombing potential threats! |  |
To see Mousa's storm petrels, you'll need to make a visit at night as they spend all day fishing and return to their nests at night. |  |