Mousa RSPB
Reserve
This page
is not an official source of information for the RSPB.
The island of Mousa is
most famous for its 2000 year old Iron Age broch, which is the
best-preserved broch in the world, where many of the island’s 6,000 pairs of
Storm Petrels (called ala-mooties in Shetland) nest. Mousa is also famous
for its 400 breeding Harbour Seals (sometimes called Common Seals). Mousa is
also home to Arctic Terns (tirricks), Black Guillemots (tysties), Arctic
Skuas (skooty allans), Great Skuas (bonxies), Ringed Plovers (sandy lus),
Oystercatchers (shalders) and even a few Puffins (tammy nories).
The ferry journey
across Mousa Sound can provide views of Harbour Porpoises (neesicks) and
occasionally Killer and Minke Whales.
Facilities:
The footpath around the southern part of the island (2.5 km, 1.5 miles)
offers views of the wildlife, but is quite rough and strong footwear is
advisable; Information signs, reserve leaflet, summer warden and a few
special events.
Opening times:
The reserve is open from mid-April to mid-September.
How
to find the reserve
Mousa lies just off the east coast of Mainland Shetland about 14 miles (22.5
kilometres) south of Lerwick and about 24 kilometres (15 miles) north of
Sumburgh Airport. It is accessible by ferry (see below); weather permitting,
from Leebitton, Sandwick.
Tom Jamieson
runs the ferry service to Mousa, offering trips during the day and unique
night time trips to see the storm petrels as they flit around the broch
after dark. Tom has generously offered a 10% discount for RSPB members. For
further information about trips to Mousa telephone Tom Jamieson at 01950
431367 or mobile 07901 872339 or email
Mousa Boat
Trips or visit their web site
Mousa Boat Trips.
RSPB webpage on the
reserve.
Contact: RSPB, East House,
Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, Virkie, Shetland ZE3 9JN Tel:
(01950) 460800.
Tystie - Bobby
Tulloch
Nature in Shetland
