Loch Ryan Cottages

Mull of Galloway

The RSPB Nature Reserve at the Mull of Galloway is Scotland's most southern coast.

There are many birds you should look out for here, such as:

• fieldfares
• redwings
• guillemots
• kittiwakes
• fulmars

Whales and dolphins can sometimes be seen out at sea!

Ken-Dee Marshes

There’s an abundance of wildlife to see, spectacular scenery across the River Dee and Loch Ken and peaceful woodland walks all year round at this popular Galloway nature reserve near Castle Douglas.

Dee marshes are a reserve managed by the RSPB. Look out for red kites, Greenland white-fronted and Greylag geese, willow tits and pied flycatchers on this enjoyable ramble to two hides overlooking the loch and marshes.

Wigtown Harbour - Wildlife Sanctuary and Marina

This is the is the largest Local Nature Reserve (LNR) in Britain at just under 3000ha. Notable animal species include Pinkfoot, Greylag and Barnacle geese, and Pintail, Shoveler and Wigeon as species of duck. Notable waders include Curlew and Oystercatchers.  Otters may also be seen.

A recent post of their Facebook page "A good day's birdwatching Garlieston to Wigtown Bay LNR" - highlights included Stock Doves, Brent Geese, Hen Harrier, Peregrines, Sparrowhawks, Kestrel, Great White Egret, Little Egrets 27, Little grebes and a Kingfisher. — at Wigtown Harbour.

Red Kite Trail

The Galloway Red Kite Trail is an exciting nature watching opportunity to view spectacular red kites in lovely scenery. The trail is an anticlockwise route of some twenty-four miles around Loch Ken (winter) with an additional sixteen miles of forest drive (summer only).   Cycling is also a great way to spot red kites and the trail follows a fairly level route, with cycle racks provided at Boat O Rhone, New Galloway, Ken Dee Marshes and Mossdale.

Wood of Cree

The Wood of Cree is the largest area of ancient woodland in Southern Scotland, and an RSPB nature reserve. This walk climbs up through the trees, giving some good open views and visiting waterfalls - and an otter pool on the River Cree.