Minibus Safaris South Arran and North Arran

A minibus trip to visit some of the best known bird hotspots on the island, in the company of Arran's Bird Recorder whose expert knowledge will give you the best chance to see the wildlife Arran has to offer.

Its northern half is rugged, mountainous, remote country, good habitat for Golden Eagles.  Goatfell (874m) peaks over the principal town of Brodick on the east coast.  The south has gentler moorland, extensive conifer plantations and much of the island's farmland.  Much of the coast is raised beach with a shoreline of rock or shingle, and steep escarpments.  The wide diversity of habitat across the island results in a rich bird list of over 250 species.

Dates 2010 Times Price North Arran Thurs 13th May   11.00 - 16.00 Adults £20, Children £10. South Arran Tues 18th May   11.00 - 16.00 Max 15 people Meet Brodick Pier Organiser ANHS Wheelchair access Yes What to Bring Packed lunch and a drink, binoculars and a camera. Booking required Tel:07501 337532  www. arranbirding.co.uk

Among these species, Arran has a healthy population of raptors, notably Buzzard, Kestrel, Sparrowhawk, Hen Harrier, Short-eared Owl and Golden Eagle.

As well as raptors, it is a nationally important area for Red-breasted Merganser, and, in the autumn, for Black Throated Divers.  Great Northern Divers, Red Throated Divers and Black Throated Divers can be seen off the coast most of the year.  It is an internationally important area for Hen Harriers, for which there is a Special Protection Area (SPA) of over 11,000 hectares. Arran is rightly described as Scotland in miniature.  More Bird Events

Go to www.arranbirding.co.uk for much more bird information.