Winter Wildlife

The winter months are undoubtedly the best time of the year for wildlife photography in the Scottish Highlands. From our spectacular lodge in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, we like to think that we offer the very best in photographic opportunities from red squirrels on our doorstep to red deer set in a magnificent Highland wilderness - all against the backdrop of snow-capped hills, primeval forests and wild moorland.

Close to our base, we maintain several feeding stations for red squirrels where these charismatic icons of the pine forest can be photographed running, jumping and simply posing against a range of backdrops. Also nearby we have carefully engineered settings and hides for crested tits and other birds of the northern forests. You will have ample opportunity to photograph a range of species in unique settings.

In a nearby glen, we will have the chance to photograph red deer stags amidst  an impressive pine forest and high in the Cairngorms, ptarmigan and mountain hare are adorned in their white winter finery and they can be very approachable at this time of year. Our full day on the ‘hill’ is tough going but very rewarding with stunning views over Strathspey as well as some memorable encounters with two classic mountain-dwelling species.

The Scottish Highlands is blessed with an abundance of wildlife. It is not however, comparable with the plains of East Africa! Wildlife photography here, as elsewhere in Britain, involves perseverance and groundwork. We have given an indication of the species that you are most likely to photograph during one of our winter tours, but we will retain flexibility to respond to any opportunities that arise. Groups in the past have been lucky enough to photograph capercaillie and even Scottish wildcat – you just never know! What we can promise is a fulfilling photographic experience in one of the wildest places in the UK.