Arran Wildlife

Deer, Grouse and Ptarmigan

When walking through the northern glens, it’s not uncommon to come across red deer, red grouse, or very rarely a ptarmigan – a bird normally found further north in Scotland. There are no grey squirrels on Arran and consequently we have a healthy population of the increasingly rare red squirrel; you’re bound to catch sight of a few when you take a walk around the leafy grounds of Brodick Castle. 

With so many resident wetland species, Arran is also an excellent choice for birdwatching. Heron, mallard,  merganser and eider are visible all year, and are joined in the winter months by widgeon and golden eye. Further north, the mountains are home to a variety of majestic birds of prey – buzzards, peregrines, kestrels, hen harriers, sparrowhawks and, occasionally, golden eagles.