Scottish Highlands

The book covers a huge area – from Perthshire right up to the Caithness Flow Country – and as many of the best birding sites lie outside established nature reserves, and public transport is virtually unknown, a car is the only practical option for birders. For that reason author Gordon Hamlett has organised the information into a series of 24 mainland road trip itineraries, plus in-depth guides to the islands of Mull, Handa and Skye. Almost all the tours are circular in nature, with individual maps for each stopping-off point (the book contains an amazing 218 maps in total – 54 more than the 1st edition).

The author’s extensive knowledge of the area (he’s married to a Scot) is apparent in all the reports and the book is full of useful advice. As part of his introduction, Gordon provides a detailed guide for drivers which first-time visitors will find particularly helpful.

Other features of the book include:
• Birding tips for hundreds of sites based on the author’s practical experience.
• All sites evaluated for wheelchair access.
• Comprehensive seasonal bird and wildlife lists for each route.
• What birds to expect – month by month.
• Clear instructions on locating all named sites.
• A checklist of Highlands birds.
Useful contacts and websites.