Forvie National Nature Reserve

NatureScot

Forvie National Nature Reserve, located north of Newburgh in Aberdeenshire, is a stunning coastal area covering just under 1,000 hectares. Renowned for its vast sand dunes and dune heath, it features the fifth largest sand dune system in Britain, making it a vital habitat for diverse wildlife. The reserve is designated as a Special Protection Area and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, highlighting its ecological significance and the importance of its protected species, including the largest mainland tern and black-headed gull colony in Scotland. Birdwatchers can look forward to a variety of species throughout the year, with notable peaks in sightings for Eurasian Coot in April and Tufted Duck in January. October is a great time to spot Stonechat and Teal, while Mallard sightings peak in May. Visitors are encouraged to explore the reserve at dawn or around midnight for the best chances of observing these birds, particularly during the early hours when activity is high.

Managed by

NatureScot

Location

Forvie National Nature Reserve, Forvie, Collieston, Ellon AB41 8RU, UK