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Marwick Head

The clifftops of the western coast of Orkney are home to many sea birds and Marwick Head is one of the three RSPB nature reserves on the Orkney islands.

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Orkney Seal Rescue

Orkney is one of the most important breeding sites of two species of seal, the Common seal and the Grey seal. They are often found basking on many of Orkney’s shores and they face an array of environmental pressures in their struggle for survival. Seals are locally known as Selkies and legends which originated in [...]

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Winter in Orkney

The British Isles is currently in the grip of one of the coldest winters for many years and whilst it is creating travel chaos, the scenery is simply stunning. The Orkney Isles can have warmer winters than on the mainland but 2009/2010 must be an exception. For all Orcadians reading this article, your ex-natives would [...]

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Shell Sand at Aikerness

A rare type of rock called Aeolianite (shell sand) can be found at Aikerness in Orkney. One of the finest examples of Aeolianite can be found in a farm field on the Orkney mainland. In areas where the sea is rich in shellfish, tiny particles of crushed shell combine with the sand, eroded from the [...]

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Orkney’s Wild Fuchsia

Wherever you go in the Orkney Islands you are very likely to come across fuchsia growing alongside paths and on emankments. Fuchsia Magellanica Riccartonii is a naturalised alien, thought to be  introduced from South America, where it’s native home is Chile.  It is one of the hardiest Fuchsias, forming patches of dense scrub along paths, [...]

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Wildlife of Mull Head

Mull Head in Orkney is a clifftop haven for seabirds and a great vantage point to watch seals and porpoise. Only plants tolerant of sea spray can live on the cliff edge.  They often bear thick fleshy leaves and form a ground hugging habit which helps them cope with the salty conditions. Early summer sees [...]

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Short Eared Owl

Locally known as “Catty Faces”, these charming owls are often seen in the early evening around the agricultural areas of Orkney. With mottled brown bodies, Short Eared owls are a medium size bird.  The distinctive yellow eyes with the outer rim of wite feathers make this owl easy to spot. Often found hunting during the [...]