Mull Island, Scotland – An Invigorating Bird Watching Experience

June 9th, 2008 Posted in Bird Watching Vacation

Are you a bird watching enthusiast? Are you looking for a new, fascinating landscape to explore while enjoying your hobby? How about Mull, Scotland? Populated by many of Scotland’s most interesting species of birds, this area will fulfill any bird watcher’s wildest dreams.

Common Mistakes When Bird Watching Mull

There two main errors that people often make when visiting Mull for the first time. Firstly, if it is your first time on the island of Mull, do not underestimate the size of the island. It is huge – there is roughly 300 miles of rocky, rugged landscape to explore. When bird watching Mull, it is a good idea to pick one destination, explore it thoroughly, and then move on. If you try to see too much of the island in one go, you will tire yourself out and the experience will not be as fulfilling as it can be.

Secondly, many bird watchers do not take note of the weather patterns. This is vitally important. The climate on the island tends to fluctuate – just because it is raining heavily in the morning, it does not mean that it will rain all day. It is a good idea to head to the coast if it is raining as you will be able to view many species of seabirds, such as sea ducks and white tailed sea eagles, but be prepared to head inland if the rain stops for a different bird watching experience. If you wish to spot birds of prey, it is important to take note of the wind direction. This is because birds of prey, such as hen harriers, golden eagles, buzzards, kestrels, and short eared owls, tend to fly into the wind when pursuing their prey.

What You Should Know When Bird Watching Mull

It is important to take extensive notes when bird watching Mull Island. It is critical that you take note of the landscape and climatic features of the place where you spot a certain bird as this can make identification easier. This can mean the difference between figuring out whether you spotted a rock pipit or a meadow pipit, for instance. It is also good practice to take note of the season. This is because you will only spot certain species of bird in the breeding season as opposed to autumn or winter. Many birds’ behavior and habits vary from season to season. A good example of this is that waders are quite territorial in the summer and spring, but are a lot more sociable during the colder months.

Essential Gear When Bird Watching Mull

When bird watching on the island of Mull it is imperative that you take the correct gear and clothing with you. Strong, warm hiking boots are a must have as the landscape is often not the friendliest – Mull’s terrain ranges from rocky and craggy to boggy and wet. You may even have to wade through shallow puddles or rocks covered with seaweed so it is important to have durable boots that can handle any terrain. Layer your clothing to ensure that you are warm enough. It is a good idea to pack a lightweight waterproof jacket as the weather can turn wet in an instance. Other essential clothing includes shorts, jeans, t-shirts, and even swimming trunks. The rule of thumb is to be prepared for all weather patterns.

With regard to bird watching equipment, aside from your usual bird watching gear (such as binoculars, a bird watching journal, and a bird book), it might also be a good idea to pack a telescope. This will enable you to spot colonies of seabirds that are only found far out at sea or eagles that are perched high upon distant mountainsides.

The island of Mull is one of the world’s most exciting bird watching destinations. Treat yourself – book a bird watching excursion to Mull as soon as possible. What’s holding you back?