Scotland is one of the best places in Europe for wildlife photography. The range of species, combined with relatively accessible locations, means you can photograph everything from large mammals to seabirds without needing to travel huge distances.
But what are the best Scottish wildlife photography species to aim for? Here I share my top 35.
This guide is based on the species I regularly photograph across Scotland. Some are well known and relatively straightforward to find, while others take more time, patience, and an understanding of behaviour and fieldcraft to photograph well.
For each species, I’ve included where to look, the best time of year, and a few practical tips from my own experience in the field. The aim is to help you plan what to focus on and give you a better chance of coming away with strong images.
If you’re planning a trip, this page works alongside my ultimate guide to wildlife photography in Scotland, where I cover locations, seasons, and general advice in more detail.
35 top Scottish wildlife photography species
Birds of Prey
1. Golden Eagle
Golden eagles are an absolute top target for wildlife photography in Scotland. But they are also one of the most difficult targets to get close to. They are most often found in remote upland and mountainous habitat, particularly in the Scottish Highlands and some of the larger islands like Mull and Islay both of which are absolutely fantastic for eagles. Golden eagles require large territories, so sightings are usually at distance as they patrol ridges or soar on thermals. You can come across an eagle at any time of year but for me the best time is February to April when display activity means greater predictability. Winter can offer clearer views but harsher conditions. Photography is usually about patience and long lenses, with an emphasis on capturing them in landscape rather than close detail.
Short-eared owl
Short-eared owls are one of the most rewarding owls to photograph in Scotland, often hunting during daylight and flying low over open ground.
They’re found on moorland, rough grassland, coastal marshes, and upland areas, with regular sightings around the coast in winter and on breeding moorland areas in summer. I find Mull and South Uist to be particularly strong in summer.
They hunt over large areas, so it usually pays to find a good position and wait rather than move around. Once you spot a regular flight path, it’s worth sticking with it.
Try to keep backgrounds as clean as possible, and use fast shutter speeds as they can change direction quickly.