Loch a' Mhill Àird |
The wilderness
Coll is one of a handful of wee islands boasting huge areas of nothing. That is until you venture within and discover it's full of history and life, rare plants, bugs, birds, fish........ with very few people to disturb it!
Scotland is fortunate in having a 'freedom to roam' act (Land reform Act 2003) which ensures everyone can have access to natural wild. On Coll, it's easy to loose oneself (metaphorically) in a wilderness, the vast area in the north east of the island and the slightly smaller area more central to the south west.
There are very few trails though these areas but you will find farmers' quad tracks along with the numerous meanderings of sheep trails (that often lead to no where!). Following a burn (stream) is often a good idea but seeking higher ground when the burn goes through a flatter, boggier section. It's this variety of habitats that produces such a rich diversity of life and it's the isolation that attracts nesting birds.
A few words of caution:
Much of the wilderness doesn't enjoy a mobile signal. Walk Highlands website advise you to use, and learn how to use, a map, one of those things of yesteryear that works without a battery!
In May - July please make allowances for nesting birds, many of which are susceptible to disturbance or may be predated upon when taking flight with fright.
Many of the species have legal protection under Schedule one of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981; wilful disturbance, including photography without a licence, of these rarities is a criminal offence.
Nature and the wilderness is for all to experience and enjoy. It is precious, under threat and should not be considered a commodity for exploitation, otherwise it may be lost.
A few words of caution:
Much of the wilderness doesn't enjoy a mobile signal. Walk Highlands website advise you to use, and learn how to use, a map, one of those things of yesteryear that works without a battery!
In May - July please make allowances for nesting birds, many of which are susceptible to disturbance or may be predated upon when taking flight with fright.
Many of the species have legal protection under Schedule one of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981; wilful disturbance, including photography without a licence, of these rarities is a criminal offence.
Nature and the wilderness is for all to experience and enjoy. It is precious, under threat and should not be considered a commodity for exploitation, otherwise it may be lost.
Loch Fada Crannog - More
Archaeological sites litter Coll's wilderness
Insect eating plants
Oblong-leaved sundew Drosera intermedia is one of the fascinating plants to be found.
A wilderness ruin
Ruins from previous occupants can be seen in many wilderness areas.
Common Juniper
A wilderness evergreen conifer that grows on rocks. Also a gin-drinker’s delight!