Wildfire risk
With wildfire risk currently extremely high, we urge visitors to take extra care by avoiding any activity that could start a fire and immediately reporting any signs of smoke or fire to 999 to help protect people and wildlife. Please note, some of our nature reserves are closed due to wildfires, please check before you travel.
Advice on wildfire preventionThu 30 July 2026 12:00 Days out
Fetlar
Between Aith and FunzieOpenSee opening timesThis Shetland island is a sanctuary for seabirds, waders, otters and the rare Red-necked Phalarope.
About
Fetlar island is a remote and rugged haven for Shetland birds, and a great place to explore. Venture along the coast and you might be lucky enough to see otters. Our Mires of Funzie hide gives you views across the mire habitat, home to an array of wading birds, insects and plants. With patience and luck you may also see Red-necked Phalarope from the hide or on the nearby Loch of Funzie.
Fetlar is home to important populations of rare breeding birds, including Red-necked Phalaropes. Visit the viewpoint at the Mires of Houbie for safe viewing of Red-necked Phalaropes. RSPB Scotland is managing the reserve for the benefit of birds and for its broader biodiversity.
We create pools of open water by raising water levels in the summer, then reducing water levels in autumn to encourage cattle grazing.
We also run a continuous programme of research and monitoring, focusing on key breeding birds, as well as water levels and plant communities.
At a glance
10 spaces. The car park is situated west of the Loch of Funzie - 400 m from the reserve. Blue badge parking available for 2 cars at the roadside parking area by the hide track.
Nearest facilities are at Hamarsness ferry terminal, 5 miles (7 km) away.
Nearest facilities are at Hamarsness ferry terminal, 5 miles (7 km) away.
The improved access track is suitable for pushchairs down to the hide at Mires of Funzie
The improved access track is suitable for wheelchairs down to the hide at Mires of Funzie
Nearest facilities are at Hamarsness ferry terminal, 5 miles (7 km) away.
BBQs are a fire risk, endangering other people and the precious wildlife and habitats here. They are not permitted on the reserve at any time.
Assistance and other dogs under close control welcome. This nature reserve is important for wildlife. RSPB Scotland welcomes responsible access, in line with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. We would ask that you keep your dog under close control, preferably on a short lead, so as not to disturb wildlife and livestock that may be present. This is particularly important during the breeding bird season of 01 April – 15 August.
Assistance dogs are welcome in all parts of the reserve.
See what’s here
Contact Fetlar
fetlar@rspb.org.uk Fetlar, Shetland, Shetland Islands, ZE2 9DJ 01950 460800