Wildlife in the Scottish Borders
From red squirrels in ancient pinewoods to ospreys soaring over Kielder, the forests and moorlands around Newcastleton teem with British wildlife rarely seen elsewhere.
What You Might See
The Borders wilderness supports a rich diversity of wildlife
Red Squirrels
One of Britain's last strongholds for native red squirrels. The extensive conifer forests provide ideal habitat, and sightings are common along forest trails and around picnic areas.
Ospreys
Returned to Kielder in 2009, ospreys now breed successfully. Watch them dive for fish at Kielder Water from the viewing platform at Leaplish or along the reservoir shores.
Roe Deer
Common throughout the forests, roe deer are most active at dawn and dusk. Listen for their sharp bark as they bound away through the trees.
Red Deer
Britain's largest land mammal roams the open moorland and forest edges. The autumn rut (October) brings dramatic encounters between stags.
Badgers
Nocturnal but occasionally seen at dusk, badgers are well-established in the Border woodlands. Look for their distinctive paths through undergrowth.
Otters
Making a strong comeback in Border rivers. Patient early morning watching along the Liddel Water may reward with otter sightings.
Birdwatching
Exceptional birding in varied habitats from moorland to ancient forest
Birds of Prey
- Goshawk - Secretive forest raptor, best seen in spring display
- Buzzard - Common, soaring over clearings
- Kestrel - Hovering over moorland edges
- Merlin - Small falcon of the uplands
- Osprey - Kielder's star attraction
- Hen Harrier - Moorland specialist (scarce)
Woodland Birds
- Crossbill - Listen for their distinctive calls in conifers
- Siskin - Flocks in winter, breeds in summer
- Coal Tit - Abundant in pine forest
- Goldcrest - Britain's smallest bird
- Jay - Noisy and colourful
- Greater Spotted Woodpecker - Drumming in spring
Upland & Water Birds
- Red Grouse - "Go-back, go-back" calls on moorland
- Black Grouse - Dawn lekking displays (spring)
- Curlew - Haunting call over moorland
- Dipper - Bobbing on river rocks
- Grey Wagtail - Yellow flash along burns
- Goosander - Sawbill duck on rivers and Kielder
Best Wildlife Watching Spots
Kielder Forest & Water
The largest man-made forest in England offers unparalleled wildlife watching. The osprey viewing points at Leaplish are a highlight, while the forest roads and trails provide access to red squirrel hotspots. The Kielder Observatory also offers stargazing in one of England's darkest skies.
Newcastleton Forest
The forests immediately surrounding the village are rich in wildlife. The 7Stains mountain bike trails pass through excellent habitat - take a walk instead of a ride for better wildlife encounters. Red squirrels are particularly common around the car park areas.
The Moorland
The open hills above the forest are home to red grouse, mountain hare, and in spring, displaying black grouse. The RSPB manages land in the area, and guided walks are occasionally available.
Liddel Water
Following the river through the village and beyond provides chances of seeing dippers, grey wagtails, and potentially otters. Herons patrol the slower sections, and kingfishers, though shy, are present.
Wildlife Watching Tips
Dawn and dusk offer the best mammal sightings
Move slowly and quietly - stop often to listen
Bring binoculars - essential for birds and deer
Wear muted colours and dress for the weather
Seasonal Wildlife Calendar
What to look for throughout the year
Spring (Mar-May)
- Ospreys return (April)
- Black grouse lekking
- Woodland birds nesting
- Roe deer kids born
- Adders basking
Summer (Jun-Aug)
- Osprey fishing at Kielder
- Red squirrel families active
- Crossbill flocks
- Butterflies on forest edges
- Long daylight for watching
Autumn (Sep-Nov)
- Red deer rut (October)
- Salmon running rivers
- Fungi in forests
- Migrant birds passing
- Red squirrels caching food
Winter (Dec-Feb)
- Deer herding on open ground
- Winter bird flocks
- Tracks in snow
- Dark sky stargazing
- Quiet forests, good visibility
Explore More of Newcastleton
Combine wildlife watching with walking, cycling, or fishing for a complete outdoor experience.