Scottish Wildlife

A diverse range of Scottish wildlife lives in and beyond Dornoch. Local sea life thrives upon our unspoiled golden beaches, whilst the heather filled moors and inland woodland areas are teaming with local wildlife, including the very rare wildcat.

Scottish Sea Life

As a coastal village, Dornoch is home to a beautiful golden sand beach that lies on a short five-minute walk from the hotel, meaning you don’t need to travel far to spot local sea life. 

Wander along the beach through Dornoch Firth where grey and common seals can often be spotted gathering on the banks. Further out to sea you may glimpse small groups of dolphins gliding above the water for brief moments at a time, and minke whales are also known to make an occasional appearance.

Highland Wildlife

Journey inland from the coast to the heather filled moors to spot woodland Scottish wildlife. 

Travel north to Loch Brora and Glen Loth to spot Roe deer, red deer and maybe a Highland cow or two if you’re lucky. Common animals such as hedgehogs, moles, shrews, voles, wood mice, foxes, stoats, weasels and rabbits can be found in nearby woodland areas.  

An extremely rare sight is the wildcat, which resides in local woods and the hills. With only 35 wildcats left in the whole of Scotland, the local wildcat is a truly significant site.

Bird Watching

Birdwatchers won’t be disappointed as they watch skylarks whirl across the golf course and along the shore line. 

Loch Fleet’s nature reserve lies only a short ten-minute drive away where you can spot wading sea ducks and osprey in springtime. Other nearby lochs such as Loch Brora are home to soaring golden eagles and Dunrobin Castle holds a bird of prey and falconry display most days.