Autumn in the Scottish Highlands
We love autumn at Eagle Brae. As the landscape transforms, our log cabins are surrounded by nature and wildlife. So let’s take a look at what happens over autumn in the Scottish Highlands. From the changing colours, to the leaping salmon. The mating calls of the deer to the ruts! The migration of the birds and night time stargazing …
Autumnal Colours
Our stunning Highland landscape transforms as leaves turn red, gold and brown and fall from the trees. The fall colours are vibrant and stunning. It’s a truly beautiful sight and the perfect time to visit us here at Eagle Brae. We are in the very heart of the Highlands, so there is much to explore. As the nights draw in, retreat to our luxurious, warm and cosy hideaway complete with roaring fire.
The Stag Rut
When it comes to autumn wildlife in the Scottish Highlands, the annual stag-rutting season is a magnificent sight to behold. Every autumn, the stags around Eagle Brae lock horns (quite literally) in a dramatic battle of dominance to win the hearts of local female deer. And since we have large herds of deer that roam freely throughout Eagle Brae and the surrounding Highlands, the sound of stags battling it out in a noisy display of wildlife chivalry can be heard at the end of September and during the first few weeks of October, from the safety of our log cabins.
Atlantic Salmon Spawning
November sees the start of salmon spawning season in Scotland. This is the time when adult salmon return from the sea to freshwater rivers to spawn. They have to travel upstream, leaping in and out of the water to battle fierce currents and waterfalls. The leaping salmon is a spectacle not to be missed and it’s something to look out for on our own waters at Eagle Brae.
Migrating Birds
As birds get ready for the winter months, many migrate to warmer climates where food is easier to find. We may say goodbye to several species during autumn, but we also receive a whole host of winter visitors to Scotland. They come from colder northerly regions such as Northern and Eastern Europe, Canada and The Arctic. We look forward to welcoming our old friends the Whooper Swans, Woodcock and Goldeneye to Eagle Brae this autumn, among others.
Birds of Prey
While these plucky birds can be seen throughout the year, as the vegetation dies back and the leaves begin to fall, spotting birds of prey (or any bird for that matter) is a lot easier in the autumn and winter months. Look out for peregrine falcons, whose hunting methods are a marvel all their own. They can reach speeds of 200 miles an hour while diving down on prey, plucking unsuspecting victims straight out of the air. And golden eagles, which swoop and soar in the skies over Eagle Brae, with a wing span of over two metres! Not to mention buzzards, hen harriers, kestrels, merlins, red kites, sparrow hawks, barn owls and tawny owls.
Changing Colours
It’s not just the leaves that change colour as nature prepares for winter. Creatures such as the mountain hare and ptarmigan will soon start to change from grey-brown to white. This helps them to stay hidden from predators in the white snowy landscapes of the Highlands.
Autumn Mist
The atmospheric autumn mist, which forms at this time of year, has a magical quality. From our hilltop hideaway, you’re in for spectacular misty views of the surrounding landscapes. Mist is formed when warm water in the air turns from gas into tiny liquid droplets. In autumn in Scotland, the conditions are often just right for this to happen. Leading to some of the most remarkable scenes.
Dark Skies
As the nights grow longer, autumn is the perfect time to enjoy stargazing in the Highlands. Our remote Eagle Brae location is away from light pollution, which makes it easier to see the stars on a clear night. Also, we’re a hotspot for seeing the magnificent Northern Lights. So, wrap up warm, sit on the deck of your cosy log cabin with a wee dram, and take in the vast night sky.
A great time to explore Scotland
Autumn is a great time to visit us at Eagle Brae. Usually it’s quieter than the summer, making for a more laid-back atmosphere. Our local walks are simply stunning, as the warm autumn colours take hold of nature. The nights are cosy, as you snuggle in your lovely log cabin. And there is so much to do in the area. From historic sites, visitors attractions and boat cruises, to Eagle Brae activities such as dog-sledding, pony trekking and canoeing.
So if you’re dreaming of spending autumn in the Highlands, book your stay at Eagle Brae or contact our team for more information.
