Unlike Anywhere Else in Britain: In Search of the Wildlife on the Isles of Scilly
The Scilly Isles are an isolated group of islands,
situated off the Southwest of Britain, with outstanding biological diversity.. Many species thrive here in ways they don’t anywhere else in Britain. In
this article, we explore the flora and fauna that make Scilly so
special—highlighting key wildlife, their habitats, adaptations, and why this
archipelago is a must‑visit destination for nature lovers.
1. Introduction: Why Scilly Stands Apart
The Isles of Scilly enjoy a mild maritime climate with warm winters and
cool summers, thanks to the Gulf Stream. This unique environment supports
species more typical of Mediterranean or Atlantic habitats. Visitors discover
flora and fauna often rare or absent on the mainland—making Scilly truly unlike
anywhere else in Britain.
2. Seabirds and Coastal Birds
Atlantic Puffins and Manx Shearwaters
Scilly’s rocky outcrops and seabird colonies make it a prime breeding
ground for species like Atlantic puffins (Fratercula arctica) and Manx
shearwaters (Puffinus puffinus). These birds come ashore in spring and
summer to nest in burrows.
Cornish Choughs
Once extinct in England, Cornish choughs (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax)
have made a small comeback on Scilly—a striking, glossy black bird with a
scarlet bill and cerulean-blue legs. It is a success story worth following on
the issue of their recovery.
Migrants and Rarities
Scilly is renowned among birdwatchers as a landfall for passing migrants.
Rare species such as the American golden-plover or hoopoe have appeared—birds
unlikely to be found on the British mainland.
3. Seals, Dolphins, and Marine Life
Grey and Common Seals
The calm coves and rocky shores on the islands are home to both the grey
seal (Halichoerus grypus) and the common seal (Phoca vitulina). In summer and
autumn, you might spot pups napping on sandy beaches or hauled out on rocks.
Bottlenose Dolphins and Porpoises
In the surrounding waters, bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus)
and harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) feed in the nutrient-rich
currents. Boat tours offering wildlife-watching cruises are available to get
close—but always maintain respectful distances.
4. Wildflowers, Insects, and Plant Adaptations
Island Flora
Thanks to a combination of maritime climate, wind exposure, and limited
agriculture, the Isles of Scilly feature plant communities rarely seen on the
mainland. Wildflowers like thrift, sea campion, and ivy-leaved toadflax carpet
the coastal cliffs and dunes.
Butterflies and Pollinators
Bees, butterflies, and hoverflies thrive here. The rare silver-studded blue
butterfly (Plebejus argus) has colonies in sheltered heathland.
Pollinating insects enjoy a diverse buffet of nectar sources from spring
through late autumn.
5. Reptiles and Amphibians: Unique or Rare Arrivals
Reptiles such as the slow worm (Anguis fragilis) and grass snake (Natrix
helvetica) are uncommon visitors to Scilly, but occasional records suggest
they arrive via driftwood or inadvertently by boat. Though not resident
populations, their sporadic presence signals the islands’ proximity to natural
dispersal routes.
6. Conservation Efforts and Responsible Tourism
Protected Habitats
Many parts of the Scilly Isles are designated Sites of Special Scientific
Interest (SSSIs) and Special Protection Areas (SPAs), ensuring that bird
colonies, heathlands, and intertidal zones receive robust protection.
How Tourists Can Help
- Marked
walkways should be built to cross coastal dunes to protect sensitive
plants.
- Use
binoculars rather than approaching wildlife.
- Tour
operators that follow their own published guidelines for beach walks, as
directed by marine wildlife inspectors locally or organizations that
follow Marine Megafauna Foundation protocols or other reputable
organizations.
Conservation charity projects such as the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust
work to restore island habitats and educate both visitors and residents.
7. Seasonal Highlights — When to Visit and What to Expect
Spring (March–May)
- Migrant
seabirds fill the skies—watch for puffins arriving to nest.
- Wildflowers
begin to bloom: orchids, thrift, and wild thyme.
Summer (June–August)
- Peak
season for seal pups and dolphin sightings.
- Insect
pollinators—hoverflies and butterflies—buzz in abundance.
Autumn (September–October)
- Bird
migration peaks: rarities and passage migrants such as stints or pipits
appear.
- Wildflower
season extends into early autumn nectar sources for insects.
Winter (November–February)
- Off-season
but still rewarding; fewer crowds. Some overwintering seabirds and hardy
plants persist. Coastal storms bring seabird flocks close to shore.
8. Why Scilly Is So Ecologically Special
- Climate
buffer: The Gulf Stream maintains unusually mild winters
compared to mainland Cornwall.
- Insularity: Limited
predators and human impact allow delicate plants to thrive.
- Isolation: Birds
and insects that drift or migrate often land on Scilly before mainland
Britain, acting as a stepping stone for rare species.
9. Planning Your Wildlife Adventure
Where to Go
- St Mary is the largest of the archipelago and has a lot of coastal footpaths
and enjoys present birdwatching tours.
- Tresco
Abbey Gardens is a subtropical garden with exotic plantings and
insect corridors.
- Bryher and
Samson islands have dune systems with rare wildflowers and
butterfly habitat.
Tours and Guides
Booking guided walks with local experts provides context and access to the
best viewing spots—especially for rare migrants or seal colonies.
Logistics
- Air
travelers can either leave for Penzance or New Quay, and likewise,
seafarers are required to leave Penzance or Land's End.
- Since the
weather in Cornwall is unpredictable, it is advisable to wear layers of
clothes and expect to get sea spray, fog, or sunshine.
10. External Resources and Further Reading
For up‑to‑date bird records and sightings on Scilly:
- Visit the Isles
of Scilly Bird Group sibg.org.uk for detailed reports.
- The Isles
of Scilly Wildlife Trust provides conservation updates and visitor
guidance: wildscilly.co.uk.
- Marine
mammal guidance from the Cornwall Wildlife Trust offers
best-practice tips: cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk.
11. Conclusion
Wildlife on the Isles of Scilly is exceptional—seabird breeding colonies,
seal haul‑outs, rare insect populations, and subtropical plant communities all
thrive in this unique microclimate. Scilly is a place that can be replicated in the United Kingdom. Whether you’re birdwatching, flower-spotting,
or boat‑based nature watching, the islands reward curiosity and respect for
nature. Plan carefully, travel responsibly, and immerse yourself in one of
Britain’s most captivating wild corners.
Relevant Links
-
Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust
Official site with detailed info on conservation efforts and wildlife species found on the Isles of Scilly. -
RSPB Isles of Scilly
Learn about the rare birds and habitats protected by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds on the islands. -
Visit Isles of Scilly – Wildlife & Nature
A travel guide to spotting wildlife and exploring natural sites across the Isles of Scilly. -
BBC Wildlife: Isles of Scilly
News and features about wildlife discoveries and conservation on the Isles of Scilly. -
The Wildlife Trusts – South West England
Regional trust with info on habitats and species unique to the South West, including the Isles of Scilly.
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