Shetland's Wildlife

We were held spellbound by all our wildlife encounters, sometimes exciting, sometimes magical, but the night sailing to Mousa to experience the Storm Petrels returning to their nests was very special. Mark Wood is exceptionally knowledgeable about the wildlife and plants on Shetland. His communication skills with the group were excellent and his enthusiasm for nature was infectious. He was interested in the people in the group and was attentive to our needs and requests. He was always kind, polite, friendly and smiled and laughed with us. Every day Mark did everything he could to ensure that we all experienced as much as possible. He really was a brilliant guide!

Oliver was an excellent trip leader, his enthusiasm and knowledge were exceptional and he made the holiday very enjoyable. There was a great variety of species of birds and different locations which made for an interesting week.

We had a wonderful tour of Shetlands wildlife, including birds, bees, plants, otters and seals. Our very experienced guide with local knowledge showed us excellent sites to view a wide range of wildlife. Amazing sea views and cliff nesting bird colonies including Puffins and Gannets, with circling Great and Arctic Skuas. We also had close up views of Otters and Seals, as well as breeding sites for wading birds including Whimbrels, Golden Plover and Red-necked Phalarope. We also got to see various rare plant life, including Frog Orchids, Lesser Twayblade and Shetland Mouse-ear among many others. With a boat trip to see close ups of the sea birds included, this was a wonderful and memorable trip.

The puffins on Sumburgh Head were an absolute delight, as were diving gannets on a boat trip. I loved seeing dunlin in breeding plumage, red-necked phalaropes, and the myriad of tiny flowering plants throughout the islands. Oliver has knowledge in breadth and depth of wildlife and was always willing to research anything he didn't know immediately. He showed us numerous plants which were new to me and the others for which I am particularly grateful. He led us all with a light touch and was good-humoured throughout.

Definitely a wonderful opportunity to explore and get the most out of visiting the Shetland's. Great to explore the different islands, and get a boat trip (weather permitting!). Also great to get to see the range of wildlife including rare plants, bees, birds and of course otters. Gavin was an excellent tour leader who's local knowledge meant we got to see everything we would have expected and more. He really tried to make sure everyone got the most out of the trip and tailored our days to suit the group, which was much appreciated. Time to explore a couple of historic sights of interest I also much appreciated.