Mull may be heralded as ‘Eagle Island’, but there’s another creature with whom encounters are increasingly hoped for on Mull. We are of course talking about otters, known by their scientific name as Lutra Lutra. Otters can be found all along Mull’s 300 miles of coastline, but they often require time, patience and good fieldcraft to see.

With more people hoping to catch a glimpse, we’ve teamed up with Mull Otter Group to together bring you some tips to help you see otters in the wild, with their welfare front of mind.

Time and tides

Speak to the local wildlife guides and they’ll tell you that the tide and time of day can factor into your chances of seeing otters during your stay. A guided tour will often offer you the best chances of seeing them.

These are people who spend time with otters most days and know their territories and habits well. They’ll also help ensure you encounter otters in a responsible way, reducing the risk of disturbance, which is very helpful if it’s your first time looking for them.

Watch the road

When meandering around the shore of a sea loch keeping your eyes peeled for that tell-tale ripple in the water, remember that not everyone will be doing the same as you. Pull into passing places to let traffic behind you pass, and then continue to cruise along at your own pace.

If you see an otter, find a suitable, safe place to stop, avoiding passing places that need to be kept clear for traffic to get through. Your car can become a valuable viewing hide! Don’t risk getting out, as the sound of the doors closing may startle the otter.

Enjoy the view for a while, but don’t wait too long – you never know when you might find yourself unknowingly in the way of the route to an otter’s holt, or between a mother and her cubs.

Take cover

For the most committed otter watchers, then patience can pay off when hunkering down in one location. Find a quiet spot away from other people and shelter beside some rocks as you scan the shoreline for activity. Take care to avoid ground-nesting birds who share these shores and keep still and quiet if an otter appears. It will help you to go unnoticed if you are downwind.

If you do need to move, then do so slowly as the otter dives under water – a dive typically lasts for 20 seconds – but ideally wait in place and let the otter come to you.

Go with the flow

Remember that while often spotted in Mull’s sea lochs, otters need freshwater too. This is so that they can bathe and wash the salt off their coats, as well as to drink. That makes it really important to scan the area you choose to watch for otters from and ensure you won’t be blocking the way to a stream or their holt.

Keep your distance

A good pair of binoculars or scope will stand you in good stead for otter watching, enabling close-up views without getting too close to the otter. Give them space and try to go unnoticed. For those who do, the reward of a relaxed otter grooming, playing, bathing or feeding is one you’ll treasure.

For more information about the island’s wildlife and how to encounter it responsibly, watch our video with RSPB Officer for the island, Dave Sexton.

In this blog post, you’ll follow the entire 300-mile island perimeter to discover the very best cottages for wildlife on Mull.

Grasspoint Cottage, Grasspoint

Located in the south-east corner of Mull, not far from the ferry terminal at Craignure, Grasspoint Cottage has an idyllic location. Your chances of seeing marine wildlife greatly increase here, thanks to the sea wrapping around three sides of the old crofter’s cottage for two. Porpoises and dolphins are highlights on the water, while deer, eagles and otters are stars on shore.

Discover more holiday cottages a stone’s throw from the sea here.

 

Tigh na Mara, Croggan

Tucked away on the shore of Loch Spelve, Croggan is a haven for wildlife. Wait patiently and you may even be rewarded with a view of an otter crunching up a crab for lunch! There are lovely rural walks from the doorstep of Tigh na Mara, which sleeps two, as well as a quiet beach a scenic walk away at Portfield.

 

Craig Ben Lodge, Lochbuie

Presiding over the quiet shores of Loch Uisg, a freshwater loch between lochs Spelve and Buie, Craig Ben Lodge is ideal for group getaways, sleeping 10 people. The walled garden is a tranquil spot from which to watch the local wild and birdlife.

 

Torr na Locha, Ardtun

Moving round to the Ross of Mull in the south west, Torr na Locha, which sleeps eight, has a stunning location by Loch Scridain. This house is another must-stay for marine wildlife on Mull. The chance to spot dolphins while enjoying an afternoon in the garden is not one to be missed!

 

Macquarie House, Gruline

Set just inland of the island’s west coast by the side of the water on Loch Ba, Macquarie House is a tranquil hideaway loved by guests and wildlife on Mull alike!

In the spring, a sea of bluebells decorate the lawn, while the deciduous woodland also returns to leaf. The varied habitats and proximity to Loch na Keal make this an excellent wildlife-watching base for groups of up to 10.

 

Snipe Cottage, Torloisk

Further north up Mull’s west coast, you’ll find Snipe Cottage. This contemporary house benefits from huge windows, which reveal excellent views over Loch Tuath. Beaches, mountains and lochs are all within easy reach of this house, giving guests ample opportunity to spot the ‘big five’ wildlife on Mull.

 

Witch’s Cottage, Croig

In the north-west corner of the island lies Witch’s Cottage, which sleeps four. Croig is a charming spot, with a small harbour and some beautiful beaches to explore. The surrounding woodland and coast makes Witch’s Cottage a great location for watching wildlife on Mull. Scan the skies for soaring eagles or shelter by the rocky shore to wait for otters.

Discover some of Mull’s most magical remote holiday cottages here.

 

Daisy Cottage, Fishnish

Sleeping six, Daisy Cottage is perfect for a family holiday. It’s also perfect for making the most of the wildlife on Mull, with an observatory, microscope and binoculars provided. White-tailed eagles are regular visitors to the area. The garden and pond also attracts varied wildlife, with cameras set up on site to help you spot it.

 

Find out more about Mull’s resident wildlife and the tours available.