Not the most original of threads but I just have to tell you about my recent Mull trip.
I stayed at a great B&B at Lochdon called The Old Mill. Fantastic B&B sitting at the head of Lochdon. It proved a great base to explore the Southern part of Mull.
Arrived on Saturday lunchtime and had been expecting pretty poor weather. The forecast was for rain and snow showers but it remained dry for most of the stay. A northerly wind meant it was bloomin freezing though!
Started our tour of the island with a drive along the shore of Loch Spelve. Numerous interesting sightings including Whimbrel, Lapwing and Eider duck. Several birds of the diver species too however I did not stop to identify properly. My main target was both the eagle species however my travelling companion was desperate for otter sightings.
We returned back to the main road into Glen More and climbed through the forest to a clearing overlooking Gleann Sleibhte-coire. We stopped to scan for eagle species and were rewarded remarkably quickly. Two Golden Eagles were spotted breaking the skyline to the left along the top of the hill. I set the scope up just in time to catch a view of it spreading its wings as it alighted in an old atlantic oak (?). This was my first ever view of a golden eagle perched in the wild. And what a sight it is. I can finally justify the money I spent on my scope! Both eagles were in the air again a short while later and a special view of the golden head and back was had as the afternoon sun caught the bird perfectly as it wheeled around with ease above us.
One hour on the island and I was ready to call it a day. You just don’t get eagle sightings like that. Well, as I am now happy to boast, you do on Mull.
We moved through Glen More picking up a male Hen Harrier just off the road half way along. I have seen a male hen harrier on each of my three visits to Mull. It really is an incredible island for raptors. We continued on towards the shore of Loch Scridain. Otter watch was now in full force when suddenly a large raptor was spotted way out over the loch. The scope revealed a Sea Eagle flying purposefully across the loch to the southern shore. A stunning bird even at such a distance. As we had stopped to view the sea eagle, my companion spotted a splash in the water. The unmistakeable arched back of an otter disappeared under the shallows. It surfaced moments later and great views were had through the bins. This particular otter was not for playing however, and it was yet to be found again. How exactly they can simply “disappear”, I’ll never know!
We followed the main road through Glen Seilisdir taking in the stunning backdrop. Unfortunately a heavy hail shower spoiled the view at Griburn rocks, so we continued further along the shore of Loch na Keal. This proved relatively quiet for bird life but there were several Ravens enjoying the blustery weather. We turned about for the return journey midway along the loch. On our return, I picked up a huge raptor skirting the cliffs to the left of the road. It was another Sea Eagle – quite terrific views as it glided effortlessly into the wind. Almost arrogant as it watched me battle the elements to hold the scope steady!
The return journey past Griburn rocks was far more satisfying as the weather had cleared. This is a sight not to miss on Mull as you approach from Loch na Keal. It encapsulates what wild really is. The rewards were not to stop either as we good views of two further Golden Eagles what could only be described as playing in the wind along the ridges of Beinn na h-iolaire. We slowly made our way back along the road to Lochdon stopping regularly to take in the wildlife and scenery. The weather had brought many red deer to the lower slopes just off the road.
On our return to the Lochdon area, we stopped close to the eagle watch caravan and had a great view of an adult Sea Eagle. The distance the bird can cover in such a short space of time is quite incredible.
Saturday’s wildlife watching was complete when on the drive home from Tobermory (after dinner at The Highland Cottage Hotel – superb food!) at around 10.30pm, a very large otter strolled across the road in front of the car. And the best part is, my travelling companion missed it!
We were due on the 1pm ferry on Sunday so I made the most of the day by rising early to get out at 7am. And boy, am I happy I did. Sunday night had heavy seen snow showers but the roads remained clear. The blue sky and early morning sun provided for the most beautifully calm morning with some of the most splendid scenery Scotland has to offer.
I returned to the spot of Saturday’s golden eagle sightings and set up to sit for a while in the car. Within around 5 minutes I caught a large bird lifting off the hill ahead. The scope was primed and there it was…a Golden Eagle with a hare hanging from its talons. The eagle stayed unusually low to the ground as it lazily wandered along the hillside before disappearing behind a ridge. The most fantastic view of the species I have ever had and the only regret would be that it must have been moments before that the prey had been caught. Still, I can’t complain!
The weekend finished with yet more Sea Eagle sightings around Lochdon and a Merlin flying low to the ground on the shore of the loch.
An amazing island and spectacular wildlife. For lovers of birds of prey, I really doubt there can be much better.
Dave H
Far away from Mull I read about you weekend, I follow the route in map. Mull have I visit only one time in 1985, the year the first young fly out from nest in Scotland.
I am glad for you have a fine day, and think about all young WTSE I sent over to Scotland,how will this come out in the future?
I live only 800 meter from a sitting WTSE, and near every day I see them, they will always follow me.
Tank you once more.
Hilsen
Harald
Hi Dave Sounds like a great weekend after reading your trip report checked back through my records it is 9 years since I was last on Mull long over due a return trip
Thanks Dave