Castle Kennedy Gardens, DG9 8SJ
South West Scotland is a haven for bird watching and Castle Kennedy Gardens is an ideal place to begin with its two large fresh water Lochs, one of which is a protected wildlife reserve. Our two Bird Hides make it an ideal place to watch the many resident and migratory birds that visit, including Great Crested Grebes, Bartailed Godwit, Purple Sandpiper, Greylag Geese, Whooper Swans and many more. Otters and red squirrels are also frequently viewed.
Mull of Galloway, DG9 9HP
The RSPB nature reserve at the Mull of Galloway, the southern-most point of Scotland is home to a wide variety of birds, including razorbills, kittiwakes, fulmars and guillemots. Dolphins, porpoises, and grey seals can also be seen from the cliffs.
Wigtown Harbour Wetland, DG8 9JH
This is a nationally important site for pink-footed geese and whooper swans. Here you can watch CCTV in the County Town Hall in Wigtown of the first ospreys to have nested in Galloway for over 100 years.
Red Kite Trail, DG7 3AP
Red Kites have recently been introduced into Galloway and there are now over 20 pairs in the area, and can be seen from the circular 30 mile Red Kite Trail route which has spectacular views.
Woods of Cree
This RSPB nature reserve is situated in the largest ancient oak wood in the south of Scotland. Located close to Newton Stewart you can view a mass of birds from pied flycatchers to wood warblers.
Ken Dee Marshes, DG7 2NE
This popular Galloway nature reserve is found near Castle Douglas. A wide variety of wildlife can be seen here including redstarts and pied flycatchers as well as willow tits and occasionally otters.
Cainsmore of Fleet, National Nature Reserve, DG8 7DY
Important for its upland animals and plants, you can find peace and tranquillity amongst the heather moorland, peat lands and dramatic scenery. There is a small information centre, farm walk, toilets, picnic area and parking. Open all year.
