Few birds are as closely associated with Shetland as the Atlantic puffin. Puffins spend the winter far out at sea but return to the islands’ cliffs from April onwards to breed. One of the easiest places to see them is Sumburgh Head, where they nest in grassy burrows just beside the coastal path. Watching them arrive with beaks full of sand eels is a highlight of spring wildlife watching.
Each spring, Shetland becomes a destination for migratory birds returning from distant wintering grounds. With abundant food in surrounding waters and wide, undisturbed breeding habitats, the islands attract seabirds, waders and small migrants that travel thousands of miles to nest here. Here are five species to watch for on a spring visit.
1. Puffin
Puffin Diletta Pasini
2. Arctic tern
Arctic terns David Gifford
Known locally as a tirrick, the Arctic tern is one of the world’s most remarkable migrants, travelling from Antarctica to the North Atlantic each year. They begin arriving in Shetland in May, quickly establishing noisy colonies along beaches and coastal grasslands. While they are beautiful birds, they are also famously protective of their nests, so expect the occasional aerial dive if you wander too close!
3. Great Skua
Bonxie David Gifford
Known locally as the bonxie, the Great Skua returns to Shetland’s moorland in early spring. These powerful seabirds breed in internationally important numbers here, particularly around Hermaness National Nature Reserve. Bonxies are bold birds and will fiercely defend their nests, so walkers should keep their distance if one starts circling overhead.
4. Wheatear
Wheatear David Gifford
The arrival of the Northern Wheatear is one of the first clear signs of spring in Shetland. These small birds migrate from Africa and start appearing on croft land, dry stone walls and coastal fields from March onwards. Their upright posture and distinctive white rump make them easy to spot as they flit between rocks and fence posts.
5. Whimbrel
Whimbrels on the shoreline David Gifford
The bubbling call of the Whimbrel, known locally as the May bird, is another classic sound of Shetland spring. These waders migrate from West Africa and arrive in late April and May to breed on the islands’ moorland and rough grassland. Their distinctive call often carries across the landscape long before you see them.
Spring birdwatching in Shetland is all about arrivals, as seabirds reclaim the cliffs and migrants return to the moorland after months away. While many species can be spotted while exploring the islands’ coastlines, croft land and hills, one of the best ways to experience Shetland’s birdlife is by joining a trip with a local expert guide who can help you find and identify the birds and share fascinating insights about them.