Fair Isle Bird Observatory

This jewel of an island, mid-way between Orkney and Shetland, is famous for its migrant birds. It is also excellent for seabirds. Large numbers of guillemots, razorbills, puffins, kittiwakes and fulmars breed on the north and west cliffs. Smaller numbers of arctic terns, common terns, arctic and great skuas and storm petrels also breed. The best times for migrants are late May to early June, and mid-September to late October, especially when an east or south east wind is blowing. Over 345 species have been recorded here – more than any other place in Britain. The island with its croftland, moorland and cliffs is good for flowers. The blue spring squill and pink thrift are plentiful along the cliff top where you’ll also find frog orchid growing in the short turf. Staff of the Fair Isle Bird Observatory, established in 1948, undertake studies of seabirds and migrants. They also provide an excellent ranger service with a wide range of guided walks and talks.