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 places like Papa Westray 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 the island, but be careful not to stray too close to their nests, as they will attack! |  |
Guillemots look ungainly when they shuffle around on their nesting ledges on the cliffs, but underwater their streamlined shape comes into its own and they become agile and manoeuvrable. |  |
Visit in spring and early summer and your ears will be filled with the unmistakable 'kitti-wake' calls of this dainty gull. Look along the cliffs to see them packed onto their tiny nesting ledges. |  |
Enjoy the comical antics of puffins in spring and early summer from the viewing points on the cliffs. Watch the adults returning from fishing forays at sea with sandeels hanging from their colourful beaks. |  |