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North Ronaldsay

Scotland  >  United Kingdom

North Ronaldsay is probably the most remote of the islands in the Orkneys off the northern coast of Scotland.

Added* by Ray Pettit
Most recent update 14 грудня 2022
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Description

The island of North Ronaldsay is about 5 km long and around 1.5 km wide, being flat with little vegetation. Because of its location, it does attract a high number of vagrants and also hosts species such as Чистун арктичний, Кульон великий, Поморник великий, Поморник короткохвостий and Чечітка гірська. Few people live here but basic accommodation is available at the southern end which is managed by the Bird Observatory. It may be possible to attend some ringing sessions at the observatory, and people staying at the accommodation will most likely have interests in birds and nature too. Not far from the accommodation is the harbour and to the east of that a beach. The main walk to the north of the island is along a tarmac road, and there is a small cafe there.

Details

Access

A special feature of this island is the fact that it is impractical to bring a car here, and the only vehicles on the island are used by residents. The most practical way of accessing the island is by air from Kirkwall, there being mostly three flights each day. Air service is by Loganair with a ten-seat 'Islander', and a taxi service is available from the airstrip. There is a ferry, but this only runs once per week.

Terrain and Habitat

Beach , Agriculture , Sea

Conditions

Flat , Open landscape

Circular trail

No

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring migration , Autumn migration

Route

Paved road

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot , Wheelchair

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

Extra info

Visitors should look out for North Ronaldsay Sheep, a local species that lives by the shore. Orcas can be seen off the coast in summer.

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