Much of the interior of the islands is covered by moorland, which stretches right down to sea level in many places. In North Lewis and North Uist vast swathes of Western Isles peatlands interspersed with numerous lochans dominate the landscape contrasting with the spectacular rugged Outer Hebrides hills of Harris, South Lewis and South Uist where huge areas of exposed rock have resulted from the scouring action of glaciers.
At a first impression these Scottish island environments may appear bleak and lifeless but a closer inspection will reveal a unique and fascinating assemblage of Western Isles wildlife – making the Outer Hebrides some of the best places for wildlife watching in Scotland.
Visitors enjoying Outer Hebrides wildlife breaks will discover that the peat dominated soil gives rise to its own unique plant communities, supporting many specialised plant species that have adapted to survive in the acidic and waterlogged conditions of the peat bog.
Exotic looking Western Isles plants such as Sundews and Butterwort are common. These are carnivorous plants that have evolved to catch insects on their leaves in order to boost their nutrient intake. In spring the white swaying heads of cotton grass characterise the wetter areas and in August flowering Scottish heathers give the moorland areas their warm purple hue.
A close examination of the ground flora of the Outer Hebrides will reveals a diverse mosaic of mosses that thrive in the extreme island climate where frequent rain keeps them damp and moist for much of the time.
Relatively few mammals are found on these Scottish islands but those that are present are some of the most iconic species of Scottish animals.
Most of the peatland of the Outer Hebrides is divided up into common grazing and villagers have access to a small area of the moor for cutting peat for winter fuel. This is has kept the winter fires burning for generations. Peat is cut in the spring into small squares and laid out flat to dry. They are then lifted and placed into small groupings to dry the other side. From there they are lifted and taken home. You will see peatstacks outside many island homes - they are an art form!
