Papay from the north - photograph by John Harper

The North Hill - Papa Westray

A rare area of wild maritime sedge heath habitat managed as a nature reserve by the people of Papay in conjunction with the RSPB and SNH.

Of European importance as a nesting site of the Arctic Tern as well as lapwing, blackbacked gulls, arctic skuas, whilst on the cliffs especially at Fowl Craig large colonies of kittiwake, guillemot, razor bill, black guillemot and puffin can be seen.

A Pickie (Arctic Tern) - photograph by Douglas Hourston

Unusual bird visitors are frequently observed. It was at Fowl Craig that the last Great Auk ( a large flightless relative of the puffin ) was shot in the unenlightened days of 1813.

The RSPB provides a resident warden during the summer months to guide visitors and record bird activity.

Whilst visiting the North Hill watch out for an amazing kaleidoscope of beautiful wild flowers including the famous Primula Scotica.

Primula Scottica - photograph by Douglas Hourston