Читать книгу Walking on Harris and Lewis. 30 day walks exploring the islands онлайн

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There is only a small number of native mammal species on the islands. Common seals can be seen on islands in sheltered inlets, particularly in the Bays area of South Harris. Grey seals tend to be more difficult to see, but come ashore in great numbers on the uninhabited island of Shillay in the Sound of Harris. Similarly, although you will often see their tracks in the sand along the western shores, otters are elusive and are best seen either early in the morning or at twilight.

Red deer are numerous in the higher hills of North Harris, Uig and Park and if you scan the skyline you will frequently find yourself being watched by large herds of them. During the summer months they can often be seen around the high-level lochans between the summits of Huiseabhal Mòr and Oireabhal where they collect to drink in the heat of the day.

The mountain hare (Lepus timidus) is much more difficult to see as the local population is small and it is as secretive as its name suggests. It is also known as the blue hare and sometimes the ‘varying hare’ due to the changing colour of its coat across the seasons. In summer they have a greyish blue coat, and in winter they are predominantly white with only the tips of their ears remaining dark. Mountain hares moult twice a year, in late autumn and again in the spring, when they lose their winter coat. The mountain hare is smaller than the brown hare and has shorter ears and legs, but this does not compromise its speed; when threatened by a predator, such as an eagle, it can easily attain 60kph for short periods. The hares are mainly solitary and live high in the mountains, which is probably why they are a particular favourite with mountain walkers.