Red Deer

When walking in the northern hills look out for the red deer, which is the only type of deer on Arran. In autumn you may hear their eerie roar as the males compete with each other for females. Only the stag grows antlers, which are shed in spring each year, with a new pair grown by autumn.

Red Squirrel

This is the UK's only native squirrel, and the only type of squirrel you'll find on Arran. It is easily recognised by its russet brown fur, ear tufts, and delicately bushy tail. Autumn is the best time to see squirrels as they hoard food for the winter, including acorns and pine cones. Bird feeders in winter are also a good place to see squirrels. Mating starts in January, which involves a number of males chasing a single female. They are less easy to spot in summer because of the leaves, but look for stripped pine cones on the ground.

The badger is one of the most widespread and most popular animals in Britain. Most people recognise the badger, but because they are nocturnal mammals - they stay below ground during the day and look for food at night - they are rarely seen.

Otter

Otters are solitary, shy creatures and although there is a good population all round the Island it is rare to spot them. Look for a V shaped wake in the water. In spring each litter contains 2-3 cubs. Initially blind the cubs stay in their den (holt) until 9 weeks old, only venturing into the water at 3 months old. By 9 months they are independent and head off to find their own territory.