Why Scotland's birds are important

Scotland's birdlife is amazing... and important

Scotland's birdlife has been famous for centuries - but why is it so important, and why should we care for it?

Location, location...

Perched on Europe's edge, and surrounded by food-rich seas and shores, Scotland is an essential filling station for migrating birds, a safe winter haven for ducks, geese and shorebirds, and the ideal summer home for nesting seabirds. If you've never or visited one of Scotland's big 'seabird cities' in summer, or seen the huge flocks of geese at Caerlaverock or on Islay, prepare to be amazed! Scotland has over 140 sites so important for birds that they are protected by international designations.

Our diverse countryside, our special birds

Within the UK, Scotland is the main or only home for a range of species. We have a special responsibility for:

• Crested tit - you'll only find this little gem in our Scots pine woods
• Chough - with bright red feet and legs, this is the comical crow of the coast
• Sea eagle - visit Mull to see the flying barn door
• Capercaillie - 'horse of the forest', the world's biggest grouse
• Corncrake - sympathetic farming on Scotland's west coast is the key
• Osprey - spectacular fish-eater and icon of bird conservation
• Bonxie - dive-bomber extraordinaire

Getting involved

There are lots of ways to see and learn about Scotland's birds, starting right on your doorstep. Making and putting up a nestbox  is a great way to get kids interested. Get garden birds to come to you by putting out peanuts and other food, and contribute to valuable monitoring schemes like Garden Birdwatch  . There are lots of local clubs and other organisations to help you get more out of your birdwatching.