Local group promotes Skye and Lochalsh wildlife.

A leaflet highlighting the wildlife of Skye and Lochalsh that also directs visitors where and when to see it, has been published by a local biodiversity group.

The Skye and Lochalsh Environment Forum, in conjunction with Highland Council’s Senior Ranger for Ross, Cromarty, Skye and Lochalsh, John Phillips have published 10,000 copies of “Wildlife – A guide to finding wildlife in Skye and Lochalsh”.

The main aim of the leaflet is to showcase local wildlife and to direct visitors to appropriate locations at the right time of year to see wildlife which they might not otherwise be aware of.

Designed by Skye-based Ronan Martin Design, the leaflet features colourful images and an introduction to biodiversity. It also includes a location map directing people to wildlife viewing sites on the sea and coast; freshwater areas; croft and farm land; woodlands; mountain and moor land and within the built environment.

Tips on how to watch wildlife are also provided in the leaflet such as checking tides, the tell-tale signs of otters, and advice on bird-watching, including eagles. A list of walks, graded by difficulty is included in the location map to allow walkers to choose routes according to their own abilities.

Iain Turnbull, Chair of the Skye and Lochalsh Environment Forum said: “The landscapes and environment of Skye & Lochalsh are hugely significant in the attraction of the area to visitors and residents alike.  The Environment Forum has felt for a long time that a simple guide to where and how to see some of our area’s most exciting wildlife would be warmly welcomed by many people throughout the area.”

John Phillips, Highland Council’s Senior Ranger for Ross, Cromarty, Skye and Lochalsh said: “There is an abundance of wildlife to see in Skye and Lochalsh both for locals and visitors. This leaflet highlights some of the best opportunities where the careful watcher can view wildlife without posing any threats. All we ask of our visitors is to “take only photographs and leave only footprints.”

This leaflet is part of the Highland BAP Implementation Programme, financed by the European Union under the North and West Highland Leader+ 2000-2006 Programmes, Scottish Natural Heritage and The Highland Council.

Copies of the leaflet are available from Tourist Information Centres and Highland Council Services Points in the local area and at the NTS Office at Balmacara and on the Highland Council website.

 The Skye and Lochalsh Environment Forum is open to residents of Skye and Lochalsh interested in contributing to the wellbeing of the wildlife of the area. For further information, contact David Ashford, Secretary,  Skye & Lochalsh Environment Forum, The Old Police Station, Isleornsay, Isle of Skye IV43 8QR Tel/Fax:  01471 820 318 email: ashford@legalisp.net