Bird Watching
The Cairngorms National Park is world renowned as a hotspot for ornithology. Cairngorm is the most accessible mountain site in the Cairngorms, and is regularly used by birdwatchers seeking mountain species. Ptarmigan, Snow Bunting, Dotterel and Ring Ouzel are just four of the regular breeding species present in the summer.
These birds have adapted to survive in the sub-zero temperatures and 100mph winds which can occur at any time of year in these high areas. Many of the birds that are found here adapt through summer and winter either by heading to lower ground during winter months or they migrate or even change colour.
Most of the bird species found on the mountain nest at ground level and are vulnerable to disturbance and predation. The nesting season normally begins in April and visitors are respectfully reminded that this is a sensitive time of year for all ground nesting birds. Please observe these simple guidelines when you are out and about:
• Please stay on the footpath if there is one
• If you come across a nesting site please retreat to a distance to avoid causing unnecessary disturbance
• Dogs should be accompanied at all times and be kept under close control attached to a lead
• If using the mountain railway, please be aware of our Visitor Management Plan and remain on the viewing terrace only.
Where to watch?
Ptarmigan and Dotterel are occasionally seen from the train and the viewing terrace, but this cannot be guaranteed.
Round the edge of the plateau are a few pairs of Snow Bunting, an arctic specialist with a small summer population in the Cairngorms. It is also not difficult to find Ring Ouzel, in Coire Cas or Coire na Ciste; Red Grouse are widespread below 800 metres; and Meadow Pipit, which for a little brown bird is amazingly resilient and nests right up on the arctic plateau.
Whether you stay in the Cairngorms National Park or further afield, if you are a keen birder, you’ll never be far from the action. Species often seen in the area are Black Grouse, Pied Wagtail and Capercaillie. Crested Tit is common in the pine forests, and species such as Great Spotted Woodpecker, Grasshopper Warbler and Goldeneye make this a wonderful place to watch birds.
If you’re planning a trip to CairnGorm Mountain then make sure you pack your binoculars because even if you’re not usually keen on birding you’ll surely want to get a closer look at the amazing birds in the area.
