Fowlsheugh, Nature reserve on coastal cliffs in Aberdeenshire, Scotland.
Fowlsheugh is a protected area featuring tall sandstone cliffs that rise above the North Sea and create natural ledges for seabirds to nest. The coastal formation extends along the shoreline and provides shelter and nesting sites for large bird populations.
During the 1800s, the cliffs were targeted by hunters who killed seabirds and collected eggs, prompting protective designation around 1900. This transition marked a shift from exploitation to conservation of the coastal area.
The site is managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and reflects Scotland's dedication to protecting wild spaces. Visitors witness how local birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts regularly visit to observe the seasonal rhythms of the seabird colonies.
The site can be reached via a trail from the village of Crawton and is open for visits throughout the year. Spring and summer months are best for watching birds during their breeding season.
The cliffs house one of Britain's largest seabird colonies, with thousands of birds nesting at the same time. During breeding season, the calls and movement of so many birds create an intense sensory experience that visitors instantly feel.
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