Dunnet Head - RSPB
Even further North than John O Groat's, the cliffs at Dunnet Head are an important settlement for many different seabirds. Dunnet Head's location was of key strategic importance during WWII, used by both the airforce and the navy, and the reserve still houses some wartime buildings, as well as a lighthouse. RSPB were approached by Ben Colson, the owner of Dunnet Head last year who now - no longer with family in the area - wished to share the management of this landmark destination.
The cliff top grassland in the past has been grazed by sheep, with other areas providing a kitchen garden for those that lived and worked at Dunnet Head during WW2. As part of their management of this site, RSPB are considering establishing some arable crop and wildflowers to encourage insects and birdlife, such as twite to the area.
The Old Red Sandstone cliffs on this headland exceed 90m in height in places but are mostly between 30m and 60m high. Large numbers of seabirds nest on the cliffs and it is of national importance for some species.
Birdlife of Dunnet Head Of national significance for kittiwakes and guillemots, other birds like puffins, fulmars, razorbills, shags and cormorants also breed there. Location and facilities Keep going north. Dunnet Head lies just north east of Thurso on the north coast of Scotland. People have been able to visit Dunnet Head for many years, although there are no facilities for visitors. As part of the management of the reserve, and the possibility of showcasing the work of the RSPB, we are looking at ways of enhancing the visitor facilities in future. Grid reference: ND209762 |  |
These maps are intended as a guideline only; you must check the exact location of the reserve yourself. Wildlife Extra assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or usefulness of the information on this website.
