Noss

The wedge shaped Isle of Noss which rises to a height of 181 metres at the Noup dominates the east coast of Shetland . Over millions of years the hard and soft layers of the sandstone have been eroded by wind, rain and sea. This has created a series of crevices and ledges on the eastern cliffs, ideal for nesting seabirds.

Noss Cliffs enlarge Noss Cliffs During the summer thousands of seabirds throng the cliff face . The most numerous are some 45,000 Guillemots. The most conspicuous are magnificent Gannets with their black -tipped wings visible from a distance.

Great Skuas nest inland in the wetter bog and grassland areas, and are often seen chasing other seabirds, forcing them to drop their catch of fish.

Noss Sound attracts many types of wildlife which come to feed in the shallow water, including Eiders , Arctic Terns and Shags often seen close to the shore. Gannets regularly feed in the sound , a spectacular sight as they plunge dive into the water. Otters, porpoises and seals are regularly seen whilst Minke and Killer Whales are seen most years.

For more information on the Noss National Nature Reserve please visit:

Noss National Nature Reserve