Autumn heralds change over time in the wildlife calendar. Almost all of the smaller summer breeding birds have now migrated to the warmer climes of Africa for the winter. With the weather getting more unreliable in the arctic, summering birds there are migrating south to spend the winter here in our milder climate. Insect eating and smaller birds continue their journey south perhaps resting for a few days in the Hebrides before flying on again. Waders such as golden plover, greenshank, dotterel and dunlin that nested on moorland are now in large flocks wheeling like clouds of insects over estuaries and being scattered occasionally by a passing merlin or peregrine.

Golden eagles, white tailed sea eagles, black grouse, ptarmigan, capercaillie, crossbills and many other species remain here as they are not dependant on insects for their survival. Golden eagles and sea eagles are territorial all year round and though their prey type change, there is always some sort of food on their territory whatever the season. Carrion is very important to both species during the winter months but as summer arrives the golden eagle pursues mountain hare, while sea eagles take sea ducks and often attack otters to steal their food.

The sea is now a cetacean soup with lots of food for whales. On any calm day at sea or even from a western headland you may well spot whales or porpoise. Otters defend their territory year round and the calmer days of autumn make it much easier to spot them breaking the surface of a sea loch.

This is also the rutting season and the sight of a majestic red deer stag, antlers locked in battle with a rival to protect his harem of hinds, amid much bellowing and roaring, is a sight to behold!

Autumn in Scotland is well known for its glorious colours and dramatic sunsets. What is not so well known is that this season also brings its own particular wildlife spectacles. Could there be anything nicer than enjoying a piece of wild Scotland all to yourself with only otters and sea eagles for company!