Star species

Our star species are some of the most interesting birds you may see on your visit to the reserve.

Chough The chough is the rarest member of the crow family in the UK. They can be found feeding in fields on Islay, probing for invertebrates with their curved, red bill.
Golden eagle The best time to see golden eagles at The Oa is during spring and summer when they are at their most active. You could see adults carrying nest material or, later on, young eagles taking their first flights.
Hen harrier Hen harriers can be seen here at any time of year. To see a 'ghostly' grey adult male can be especially thrilling.
Peregrine Keep an eye out for a commotion among birds at The Oa - a peregrine may be making a fly-past. They are a regular sight overhead when a pair is nesting in the area.
Snow bunting Watch for snow buntings among the flocks of farmland birds during autumn and winter. The flashes of white on their wings are especially noticeable.