Wildlife on the Isle of Mull, Scotland
The Isle of Mull ~ August 2023
This collection brings together the wildlife I encountered on the Isle of Mull — including otters, harbour seals, basking sharks, thresher sharks, red deer, herons, oystercatchers, frogs, and robins. The island’s mix of coastline, woodland, and moorland offered a chance to see and photograph a wide range of species in their natural habitats.
Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra)
Otters are one of Mull’s most iconic mammals, often seen along quiet stretches of coastline and sea lochs. They hunt for fish and crustaceans in shallow waters and are most active around dawn and dusk. We were lucky enough to watch one hunting for its dinner! See my otter collection here
The basking shark, the world’s second-largest fish, visits Mull’s coastal waters during the summer months. They filter-feed on plankton near the surface and are often spotted cruising slowly just offshore. We spotted this one on our trip from Isle of Iona to Staffa Island.
Basking Shark (Cetorhinus maximus)
Harbour seals can often be seen resting on rocks or beaches around Mull’s sheltered bays. They feed mainly on fish and squid and are most visible at low tide when they haul out to rest. We spotted these two particularly joyful seals on our way to Staffa island.
Harbour Seal (Phoca vitulina)
Red Deer (Cervus elaphus)
Red deer are Scotland’s largest land mammals and can be found across Mull’s hills and moorlands. They graze on grasses and shrubs and are most active in the early morning and evening. We happened upon a herd in the early evening and from a distance, watched a mother and her fawn graze on the rich vegetation on a lake shore.
Eurasian Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus)
Eurasian oystercatchers are common along Mull’s rocky shorelines and tidal flats. Easily recognised by their black-and-white plumage and bright orange bill, they feed mainly on shellfish and other invertebrates found in the intertidal zone. Their sharp calls and striking appearance make them one of the most distinctive coastal birds in the Hebrides.
Grey herons are a familiar sight along Mull’s lochs and shorelines. They stand motionless in the shallows, waiting to strike at fish or small amphibians with quick precision.