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RSPB Mousa

Shetland Islands  >  United Kingdom

Mousa is one of the smaller and most attractive of the Shetland Islands with its well known seabird colonies, and is relatively accessible.

Added* by Marnix Roels
Most recent update 30 april 2020

Description

Lying less than 1km off the east coast of Mainland, Shetland, the small and low-lying island of Mousa consists of rough grassland and heath with small areas of marsh, in addition to some small lochs and tidal pools.

There is a large Havsvale colony on Mousa numbering more than 6000 pairs many of which breed in and around the ancient stone walls. Other breeding seabirds include Havhest, Storjo and Tyvjo, Toppskarv, Teist and nationally important numbers of Rødnebbterne. The island also has breeding Ærfugl and a few waders. The pools may attract a few passage waders and in winter Havelle can be seen in good numbers. Praktærfuglhas been seen here with some regularity.

Details

Access

Mousa can only be reached by boat from Leebitton on the south-east coast of Mainland, Shetland. Local boatmen arrange trips to the island including overnight stays, essential to see Havsvale.

Terrain and Habitat

Grassland , Moors/heathland , Sea , Lake

Conditions

Hilly , Open landscape

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

Spring , Summer

Best time to visit

Summer , Spring

Route

Narrow trail

Difficulty walking trail

Average walk

Accessible by

Foot

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

Links

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

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