Loch of the Taing

Lake, Pool, Pond, Freshwater Marsh in Orkney

Scotland

Loch of the Taing

Shag, Papa Westray Stood on the cliffs at the RSPB reserve of North Hill on Papay Westray — Shag, Papa Westray Credit: hayley green

Loch of the Taing is a small freshwater loch located on the island of Westray, which is part of the Orkney archipelago in Scotland. Situated in the northernmost part of the island, the loch covers an area of approximately 3 hectares and has a maximum depth of around 4 meters.

Surrounded by rolling hills and abundant vegetation, Loch of the Taing is a picturesque water body that attracts both locals and visitors alike. The loch is fed by several small streams that flow from the surrounding hills and drains into the sea via a small outflow channel. Due to its freshwater source, the water in the loch is relatively clear.

The surrounding area of the loch is characterized by a diverse range of flora and fauna. The lush vegetation surrounding the loch includes various types of grasses, sedges, and reeds, which provide an ideal habitat for numerous bird species, including swans, ducks, and wading birds. The loch also supports a variety of fish species, such as brown trout and eels.

Loch of the Taing is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts, who can enjoy angling for trout in the peaceful surroundings. The loch also provides a tranquil environment for birdwatchers and nature lovers, who can observe the diverse birdlife and plant species that thrive in this freshwater marsh.

Overall, Loch of the Taing offers a serene and picturesque setting, showcasing the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Orkney Islands.

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Loch of the Taing Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.365972/-2.8750718 or Grid Reference HY5053. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Shag, Papa Westray

Stood on the cliffs at the RSPB reserve of North Hill on Papay Westray

hayley green

Waves, up towards the top of North Hill, Papa Westray

hayley green

Two Ponies

Two ponies in a field above the beach with a distant view towards Hundland.

Rude Health

View Along Fence And Wall Near Berry Hill

Rude Health

Three Fulmars On Papa Westray

Rude Health

Great Auk Memorial

Memorial to last Great Auk killed in Britain in 1813, Fowl Craig, Papa Westray.

Jonathan Taylor

Great Auk Statue

This commemorates the last breeding Great Auk in Britain, it was shot in 1813. Great Auks are now extinct.

Shirley Grant

Loch of Ness

The Loch of Ness and the bay of North Wick beyond, on Papay (Papa Westray), Orkney.

Shirley Grant

Near Fowl Flag

The north-east cliffs of Mull Head on Papa Westray

Lis Burke

Fowl Craig

As its name suggests, a nesting site for seabirds. This is within the RSPB North Hill reserve on Papa Westray.

Lis Burke

Arctic skua

Known as a scootie allan in Orkney, this bird feeds by harassing kittiwakes and terns into dropping their catch of fish. There are light and dark morphs (or varieties), as well as intermediate morphs. This is a light one. Around 100 pairs nest on the North Hill reserve.

Rob Burke

Guillemots and razorbills on Fowl Craig

The guillemots are the grey and white birds to the right of the picture. The ledges of the craig provide nest sites for 200 razorbills and 1600 guillemots.

Rob Burke

Razorbill on Fowl Craig, Papa Westray

Only a small part of the craig can be seen from the cliff-top path, but this razorbill obligingly stood at a corner.

Rob Burke

Canoes at the roadside

Overlooking the tidal Loch of the Taing and North Wick on Papa Westray

Lis Burke

House at Hundland

A traditional Papa Westray house, long and low.

Lis Burke

Chambered Cairn Remains

Remains of chambered cairn at the north end of Holm of Papa. In the distance you can just see the impressive Chambered Cairn at the south end of this tiny island and I think the longest chambered cairn in Orkney. There were Fulmars nesting in the stalls of the chambered cairn in the foreground.

Adam Ward