The islands of the Hebrides are one of the wildest regions of the UK and support spectacular wildlife. Their seabird colonies are of international importance, including the massive gannetry of the dramatic St Kilda archipelago, while the unique machair habitat on the Atlantic coast is carpeted with wildflowers, an important breeding ground for waders such as redshank, lapwing and snipe. Corncrakes have their last British outpost here, their rasping call a distinctive feature of summer days and nights in the Outer Hebrides island chain from Barra to Lewis. The Inner Hebrides are much more mountainous, with some of the most ancient rock formations in Britain, thriving populations of seals and otters, plus two species of eagles. The many lochs, lochans and peatbogs provide a perfect habitat for breeding wildfowl and divers. During the summer months, basking sharks are a visible presence along the coast and large shoals of sharks may be seen from inter-island boats. Wildlife tourism is an important source of income for the people of the Hebrides, and boat trips to see the seabirds, sea eagles, otters and marine life are very popular during the summer months.



During July 2013 the BBC starts national transmission of the 4 part series Hebrides - Islands on the Edge on Thursdays at 9pm on BBC2. The series is narrated by Ewan McGregor and explores the Inner and Outer Hebrides through the seasons and showcases some of Scotland's most charismatic wildlife.

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