The Top Ten in Hebridean Wildlife!

Seals

The Outer Hebrides is home to one of the two major Grey Seal concentrations in Scotland - and over 40% of the world population. They breed on offshore Islands such as Shillay and the Monachs, but can be seen around the coast and in ports looking for food and lazing around. The grey seal can actually be either black, grey or brown in colour, with a dark mottling appearance. You often see them around our coasts, sleeping on rocks or sand or bobbing with their head out of the water, quietly watching the world go by...

As well as Grey Seals, the Outer Hebrides has 10% of the European population of Scottish Common Seals. The most frequently spotted of all our marine friends these animals crowd the harbours and follow fishing boats and sailing crafts greedily hoping for scraps! They have a short muzzle and vary in colour from brown to black with a mottled back.

For many years there was a seal in Stornoway Harbour who was known to local fishermen as 'Sammy the seal:' he was very friendly and inquisitive and fond of the fishermen who shared their catch with him!