BIRDS
The
open scattald provides a perfect environment for ground nesting birds such
as ringed plovers, Arctic skuas and Arctic terns which have become regular
visitors. Papa Stour is now recognised as an internationally important
area for the large number of Arctic terns that nest on the island in the
summer months. Other sea birds arc also attracted to Papa Stour.
The
rocky coastline and cliffs provide suitable nesting spots for 15 species
of sea birds to breed. These include fulmar, shag, guillemot, black
guillemot, razorbill, great black-backed gull and kittiwake.
SEA MAMMALS
Seals
are regular visitors to the shores of Papa Stour, hauling themselves out on
rocks in the geos along the west coast. Common seals come ashore to pup in
June and July. They arc easily recognisable, lying on the rocks in a
characteristic crescent shape with their heads and tails lifted high. The
grey seals are much larger and have long distinctive roman noses. In October
the furry white coats of the grey seal pups can be seen dotted across the
beaches.
Much
harder to see are harbour porpoises and occasional pods of killer whales
that swim past Papa Stour. Keep a careful look out to sea as you walk
around. You never know when one of these animals might appear. The low
rocky shores of the islands and voes provide a home for another sea mammal
- the elusive otter. The kelp forests that grow in shallow waters hide
many small fish for them to feed on. But tread softly because otters are
very shy creatures.
