For outdoors lovers on vacation, you don’t have to go far from comfort to connect with nature in Scotland. Filled with gorgeous natural wonders and inspiring scenery, a  significant part of what makes Scotland such a unique place to travel to is the opportunity to spot its native wildlife. As for getting a moment to hopefully spot some of Scotland’s natural stars, we can’t guarantee that they won’t be a little camera shy – but we can absolutely bring you closer to their habitats with outdoor experiences. 

From land to sea to sky, here’s a list of some iconic animals to look out for during your visit to Scotland. 

The Biggest Animal in Scotland: Red Deer 

“Scotland’s majestic red deer is our largest wild land mammal and an encounter with this iconic species is unforgettable,” according to NatureScot, the Nature Agency of Scotland.  

Red deer are the largest native wildlife in Scotland, found throughout the highlands. They roam in herds in moorland, grasslands near woods, and in mountain regions, as well as in the numerous deer parks throughout the country. With their large, impressive, pointed antlers, red deer are a striking icon of the Scottish Highlands. 

They can be seen year-round, but they are easier to see in autumn and winter travel months, when they search for food at lower elevations. If you travel in autumn, you may also be treated to hearing the roaring and clashing of antlers as males battle for dominance during the rutting season. 

However, if you want to be sure you see red deer on your Scottish road trip, a visit to the Red Deer Centre in Perthshire. The Centre offers a variety of experiences that take visitors into the heart of the Highlands, including the rare opportunity to get close to and even feed red deer. 

The Smallest Animal in Scotland: The Merlin 

The smallest bird of prey in the UK, the merlin looks like a small kestrel. A resident migrant, this native bird is most often seen in upland moor areas in the summer breeding months. They move to lower ground and coastal areas in the winter months.  

Despite not being much larger than a blackbird, the magical merlin is a small but mighty hunter. Preferring to prey on even smaller birds, they rely on their pointed wings and squared tail to build speed and make rapid turns and catch prey mid-air.  

The merlin has historically been used in falconry and according to the Scottish Wildlife Trust, was favored by Mary Queen of Scots.  While there’s no guarantee of flying a merlin during your session, this mighty little bird might inspire you to book a falconry session during your trip. 

In the Water & on the Ground: Scottish Salmon & the Slow Worm 

Known for their orange flesh with a mild flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this “king of fish” is a variety of Atlantic salmon. This enigmatic fish lives in freshwater while young, spending its adulthood in the ocean. Then, they return to the exact spot they were born to spawn the next generation. 

The salmon can be seen year-round in clear and cold rivers that offer ideal spawning and nursery grounds. They’re most common in the Tweed, Tay, Spey and Dee Rivers. 

And, there may be no snakes in Ireland, but there are legless lizards in Scotland: the slow worm. These creatures are a common sight throughout Scotland, cruising through grasslands and heather and is a must-see for nature-lovers driving through Scotland. 

Harder to Spot Animals: Red Fox & Western Capercaille 

With their distinctive red coats and bushy tails, the red fox is a charismatic must-see for many visitors throughout the Scottish Highlands. 

The red fox is found in a diverse range of habitats in most parts of the country, from lochs to mountains, and even in urban areas. While prolific, they have a reputation for being sly and you may need to pay attention to see one and outdoor activities are good way to increase your chances. Interestingly, foxes in the Highlands tend to be larger than those found elsewhere, adding to the excitement of seeing one on your journey. 

Your spotter’s challenge, if you choose to accept it, is to catch sight of the large land-dwelling grouse, the Western capercaille. With a population of just over 500 left in the wild, this beautiful black and brown bird is critically endangered in Scotland. 

With 85% of the remaining population in Cairngorms National Park, this is the best place to try to catch a glimpse of this fascinating creature. Keep a sharp eye out and do as the locals do: make certain to leave the birds and their nests undisturbed while on a walk or hike through the forest. If you’re lucky enough to see one, keep your distance; they have been known to charge and display at humans venturing too close. 

The Highlands are home to a variety of breathtaking wildlife that help characterize this beautiful part of the world. When you’re traveling here, keep a sharp eye out, perhaps have your camera or binoculars ready. Or simply immerse yourself in the moment and your good luck.  What animal are you most excited to see on your next Brendan Vacations trip?