Culbin's birdlife is rich and varied, ranging from tiny woodland birds to immense flocks of waterbirds.
In the forest you’re likely to glimpse crested tits and treecreepers, while you can see waterbirds such as pink-footed geese and velvet scoter in the Gut, Culbin’s muddy paradise for migratory and wading birds. And Culbin is so quiet you’ll be able to hear the birdsong too.
- Read more about Culbin's coastal birds.
- Read more about birds in the forest at Culbin.
If I come to see coastal birds, where should I park?
Nairn East Beach offers the closest access to the Gut and the western end of Culbin. (See the access map).
Where should I park for birdwatching in the forest?
For forest birdwatching, just follow the signs for Culbin from the A96.
Do I need to be a member of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB)?
Most of coastal Culbin is managed by the RSPB, but it’s a reserve which may be quietly enjoyed by anyone and accessed free, all year round. There are advantages to RSPB membership, including a choice of free bird identification or wildlife books on joining, regular newsletters and free access to RSPB sites which do charge. Find about more about RSPB membership.
Do I need special equipment?
All you need to enjoy birdlife at Culbin are your eyes, ears and feet! That said, a pair of binoculars is particularly useful for smaller species in the treetops, and a camera will be handy if you wish to record your sightings.
Might I see rare or unusual birds?
Culbin offers a huge range of birdlife habitat: from saltmarsh to scrub woodland and mature pine forest. Because of this it’s hard to list all the species you might see, and there are occasional visiting birds which surprise even the warden and volunteers! See more about the range of coastal birds and forest birds Culbin attracts.
Back to things to do at Culbin.
