Wildlife
Here, you’ll find all the information you need on Scottish wildlife – and guidance on when an animal might need our help.
Badger
Although there is a significant population spread across mainland Scotland, the chances of seeing a badger in the wild are slim.
Bat
Bats are the only mammals in the world that truly have the ability to fly.
Beaver
Famed for their thick, dark waterproof fur, beavers are stocky rodents with a flat tail and beady eyes.
Bird
Scotland’s lush woodlands and food-rich seas, shores and grasslands provide a home to over five hundred species of native birds.
Deer
Deer are the largest land mammals found in Scotland but, despite their size, they are extremely timid around humans.
Ducks
Icons of the public park, these water birds provide joy to families across the country and are synonymous with Scotland’s ponds, lakes and rivers.
Ducklings
Every year we receive hundreds of calls about Mallard ducklings at our National Wildlife Rescue Centre.
Fox
Well-known for being wily, foxes have adapted to living in different environments and can be found all over Scotland.
Gull Chicks
Hundreds of gull chicks arrive at our Wildlife Centre every year, many of them unnecessarily.
Hare
Scotland is home to two species of hare; the native mountain hare and the brown hare, which was introduced during the Iron Age.
Hedgehog
Famed for their brown, prickly exterior, hedgehogs are one of Scotland’s best-loved wild mammals.
Otter
After being pushed close to extinction back in the mid-20th century, otters are once again flourishing across Scotland.
Scottish Wildcats
Everything we know about the fearless feline of the Scottish Highlands.
Seal
Scotland is home to two species of seals; harbour seals (sometimes known as common seals) and grey seals.
Squirrel
Known for nimbly scurrying up trees and burying stockpiles of nuts to get them through the winter, squirrels are a common sight in Scotland.
Stoat, Weasels and Pine Martens
Stoats, weasels and pine martens all belong to the mustelid family, a group of mammals characterised by their long, slim bodies and short legs.
Swans
The term ‘waterfowl’ refers to birds which are strong swimmers with waterproof feathers and webbed feet.
Sick Animals
What to do if you find a sick animal.
Injured Animals
What to do if you find an injured animal.
Deceased Animals
What to do if you find a dead animal.
Lone Babies
What to do if you find a lone baby animal.
On the Road
What to do if you find animals on the road.
Trapped Animals
What to do if you find a trapped wild animal.
Support us from £5 a month
It costs us £63,000 every day to continue the work that animals across Scotland depend on. Our work is only possible because of the generosity of people like you.
