united-kingdom

United Kingdom Animals

Trek Zone

Follow the Trail of Wild Nature – Nature Tourism in the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is a land of diverse habitats, from rugged coastlines to rolling hills and ancient woodlands. This rich tapestry of environments provides a home to a wide variety of fascinating wildlife. From the iconic red deer that roam the Scottish Highlands to the elusive otters that play in the rivers of England, the UK is a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Embark on a journey through the animal kingdom of the United Kingdom. Encounter the charming red squirrels that dart through the woodlands, the majestic red kites soaring in the skies, and the playful seals basking on the shores. Delve into the world of seabirds, from the comical puffins that nest on remote cliffs to the elegant gannets that plunge into the sea in search of fish. Join us as we explore the captivating wildlife that calls the United Kingdom home.

Mammals of the United Kingdom

In the verdant landscapes of the United Kingdom, a variety of mammals can be observed in their natural habitats. The iconic red deer, Britain's largest land mammal, roams the Scottish highlands, while the elusive European otter can be spotted along rivers and coastlines. The hedgehog, a beloved garden visitor, snuffles through undergrowth across the country. In the woodlands, the red squirrel, with its distinctive bushy tail, is a delightful sight, although it is now rare and outcompeted by the non-native grey squirrel. Off the coast, particularly in areas like Cornwall and Scotland, grey seals can be seen lounging on rocky shores or bobbing in the waves. Each of these species plays a crucial role in the UK's rich biodiversity and offers a glimpse into the nation's natural heritage for any wildlife enthusiast.

Birds of the United Kingdom

In the verdant landscapes of the United Kingdom, bird enthusiasts can marvel at a diverse array of avian species. The resplendent kingfisher, with its iridescent blue plumage, can be spotted along rivers and streams, diving for fish. The iconic red-breasted robin is a familiar sight even in urban gardens, beloved for its melodious song. Majestic birds of prey such as the red kite, once perilously close to extinction, now soar gracefully over the rolling countryside, a conservation success story. The haunting call of the common loon, or great northern diver, echoes across Scottish lochs, while the puffin, with its colorful beak, nests on coastal cliffs, particularly in places like the Isle of May. Each of these species plays a vital role in the UK's rich and accessible birdlife, offering a glimpse into the nation's natural heritage.

Reptiles, Amphibians, Insects

Top Spots for Wildlife Observation in the United Kingdom

  • The Cairngorms National Park in Scotland is the largest national park in the UK, offering a spectacular landscape of mountains, forests, moorlands, rivers, and lochs. Here, visitors can spot red deer, the UK's largest land mammal, and the elusive Scottish wildcat. Golden eagles soar above the peaks, while ospreys can be seen diving for fish in the lochs. The park is also home to the rare capercaillie, a large woodland grouse.
  • The Lake District National Park in Cumbria is renowned for its stunning lakes and fells. It is a haven for red squirrels, one of the few places in England where they still thrive. The lakes themselves are home to otters and a variety of fish, while the skies above host buzzards and peregrine falcons. The reintroduction of the white-tailed eagle, Britain's largest bird of prey, has also been proposed for this area.
  • Snowdonia National Park in Wales boasts rugged mountain ranges and an extensive coastline. Here, visitors can encounter the feral goats of the Welsh mountains, along with a variety of birdlife including the raven and the chough. The park's rivers and lakes are habitats for the otter, and the coastline provides opportunities to see grey seals basking on the rocks.
  • The New Forest National Park in Hampshire is a unique landscape of ancient woodlands, heathlands, and grassy lawns. It is famous for its free-roaming ponies, as well as deer species including fallow, roe, and red deer. The heathlands are a stronghold for reptiles like the smooth snake and the sand lizard, and the rare Dartford warbler can be found amongst the gorse and heather.
  • The Norfolk Broads National Park is a network of rivers and lakes in Eastern England. This wetland area is a paradise for birdwatchers, with marsh harriers, bitterns, and kingfishers commonly seen. The Broads are also home to the rare swallowtail butterfly, and the waterways support a diverse range of fish, including the European eel.
  • The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in Wales is the only national park in the UK designated primarily for its coastline. Along its cliffs and beaches, visitors can spot Atlantic grey seals, and during the breeding season, the cliffs are alive with nesting seabirds such as puffins, guillemots, and razorbills. Offshore, the waters are visited by porpoises, dolphins, and occasionally whales.
  • RSPB reserves across the UK, such as Minsmere in Suffolk and Bempton Cliffs in Yorkshire, offer some of the best birdwatching opportunities. Minsmere is home to avocets, marsh harriers, and bitterns, while Bempton Cliffs is one of the best places to see the UK's largest seabird, the gannet, along with puffins and kittiwakes.

Where to next? Discover country icon Ireland, a country in the region worth visiting, or use the destination finder