Wildlife Hide
The wildlife hide, built on the north side of the island, gives visitors a sheltered area in which they can enjoy the surrounding wildlife and landscape. The hide gives visiting school children the same opportunity, but also acts as a sheltered site where they can make notes or rest.
Observe Nature Unseen
Visit our discreet wildlife hide for an unparalleled opportunity to observe the island’s diverse fauna in their natural habitat. Encounter the captivating wildlife of the island, from playful otters, curious seals to a myriad of seabirds.
The hide was designed to have a minimal impact on the surrounding landscape. Hence the heather thatched roof has been made from the surrounding heathland and the wooden fabric of the building is discreet and inconspicuous. The pentagonal thatched roof acts to break up the otherwise solid roof giving a more subtle effect.
The hide, designed by Ian Begg, was awarded first prize for design excellence from Association for the Protection of Rural Scotland in October 2000.
The hide was constructed by Ronnie MacPherson, David M. Fraser and Wildland Natural Heritage Services.
Island Wildlife
The island and the surrounding water host a diverse range of wildlife. The flora ranges from coastal plants like Sea Pinks, to heathland varieties such as Heather and Tormental.
On the island you may see Voles, Pine Marten, Rock and Meadow Pipits, while in the water around, Shags and Cormorants are regularly seen feeding, and Eider Ducks have appeared in large numbers. Porpoises and both Harbour and Grey Seals are visitors, not to mention the resident Otters!
For an insight into the huge variety of wildlife that visits this area, read from the Friends of Eilean Bàn newsletter. So if you would like to keep up to date on the comings and goings, and support the Trust at the same time, why not become a member!
Some of our neighbours…
