Wildlife in the Allt-Na-Craig region

Argyll is an area rich in wildlife, flora and fauna, it would take us far to long to list all the sightings here, but below are a few to look out for as you tour around this fascinating area of Scotland. Or even as you enjoy the peace and quiet of our Drawing Room with one of the best Loch views you will get anywhere.

Basking Shark - Also known as “Sun Fish” for its habit of basking in the sun, and “Sail Fish” for its large dorsal in which resembles a sail.

Chequered Skipper Butterfly - Now extinct in England, this butterfly has thriving populations in Western Scotland.  It’s 2cm long and easily missed as it flies fast from flower to flower in May and June.

Buzzard - A medium size bird of prey, with broad wing and a tail that is rounded when spread.

Fairy Foxglove - This tiny flower clings to the stone Atlantic Bridge, crossing the sea to the Isle of Seil.

Grey Seal - There are about 110,000 grey seals round the Scottish coast.  With their big watery eyes they are a joy to watch.

Grey Heron - This is the most common and largest of the heron family.

Hooded Crow - Impressive birds with its two tone grey and black plumage, these birds are frequent visitors to the Allt-Na-Craig garden.

Lichen - These patches of grayish-white scales, grow as a result of the beautiful clean air!

Minke Whale - These are the smallest of the baleen whales with an average length of 8-9m. They can be spotted off the coast usually from about May, but sightings have been earlier.

Oyster Catchers - These large black and white waders with their long red bills are found in large numbers feeding on the banks of Loch Gilp and Loch Fyne.

Pine Marten - Sleek and muscular with bushy tails these are not always popular as they hunt the red squirrels.

Porpoise and Dolphin - These fun loving creatures cause much excitement when spotted off the coast.

Puffin - With it’s clown like face these dumpy black and white birds are mainly found on neighbouring islands.

Red Squirrel - With their reddish-brown fir and chattering calls these adorable animals can be found in the pine forests that cover much of Argyll.

Roe Deer - Keep your eyes open for these shy creatures.  They are often seen early in the morning on the hills.