National Nature Reserves (NNRs)

What are National Nature Reserves?

Like other countries, the best wildlife sites in Scotland are on display as National Nature Reserves so everyone can appreciate and be proud of Scotland's wonderful nature.  

Most reserves have habitats and species that are internationally important so we manage the wildlife very carefully. But although we manage National Nature Reserves primarily for wildlife, we want people to enjoy these special places too,  so we also manage visitors carefully to make sure they can enjoy the reserves without harming or disturbing the wildlife that lives there.

• Beinn Eighe NNR  is a spectacular mountain range. The largest Caledonian pine forest in western Scotland straddles its lower slopes and rare alpine plants grow close to its summit. Visitors can learn about the NNR at the award-winning visitor centre and can explore the reserve on trails through the woodland and up the mountain.
• Forvie NNR   is one of the most extensive natural sand dune systems in the country. It is home to Britain's largest colony of nesting eiders. Visitors can pop into the visitor centre and can discover the reserve by following a network of paths. There is a purpose-built class room for the use of education groups visiting the reserve.
• The Isle of May NNR   is the nesting place for thousands of seabirds. In summer it is home to the largest colony of puffins in the North Sea. In autumn Atlantic grey seals haul out on the beaches to have their pups - almost forty percent of the world population breed here. The lighthouses on the island are famous too. Visitors can catch a boat to visit the island.  The boat often circles around the island giving  a good view of the densely-packed seabirds nesting on the cliffs. Once ashore visitors can walk on paths to get even closer to the birds and view the lighthouse buildings.

For a full list  or map   of NNRs visit the NNR website  .