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Loch of Birrier

Lake, Pool, Pond, Freshwater Marsh in Shetland

Scotland

Loch of Birrier

Loch of Vatsetter As is very common in Shetland, this freshwater loch is narrowly separated from an arm of the sea by a shingle bar.
Loch of Vatsetter Credit: Oliver Dixon

Loch of Birrier is a picturesque freshwater loch located in the Shetland Islands, Scotland. Nestled amidst the rugged and enchanting landscape, this body of water is known for its natural beauty and tranquil surroundings.

Covering an area of approximately 2 hectares, Loch of Birrier is a relatively small loch compared to others in the region. It is surrounded by rolling hills and heather-covered moorland, creating a stunning backdrop for visitors and nature enthusiasts alike.

Although the loch is shallow, with an average depth of around 1 meter, its crystal-clear waters are teeming with a diverse range of aquatic life. Visitors can spot various species of freshwater fish, such as brown trout and Arctic char, as well as an array of waterfowl, including mallards and teal, which frequent the loch's shores.

The vegetation around Loch of Birrier is predominantly composed of reeds, rushes, and sedges, creating a lush freshwater marsh ecosystem. This marshland provides a habitat for many species of birds, insects, and amphibians, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

The tranquility of Loch of Birrier also attracts outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy fishing, boating, and picnicking along its shores. The calm waters and serene surroundings make it an ideal location for relaxation and contemplation amidst nature's wonders.

Overall, Loch of Birrier offers a unique and captivating experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Shetland Islands. Whether it's exploring the diverse wildlife, enjoying recreational activities, or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, this loch is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

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Loch of Birrier Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 60.578355/-1.0133556 or Grid Reference HU5488. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Loch of Vatsetter As is very common in Shetland, this freshwater loch is narrowly separated from an arm of the sea by a shingle bar.
Loch of Vatsetter
As is very common in Shetland, this freshwater loch is narrowly separated from an arm of the sea by a shingle bar.
Wick of Vatsetter With fish farm. The stream in the foreground drains the Loch of Vatsetter which is narrowly separated from the sea by a shingle bar.
Wick of Vatsetter
With fish farm. The stream in the foreground drains the Loch of Vatsetter which is narrowly separated from the sea by a shingle bar.
Beach at the head of the Wick of Vatsetter With fish farms.
Beach at the head of the Wick of Vatsetter
With fish farms.
Roofless building With the Loch (and beyond it the Wick) of Vatsetter in the distance.
Roofless building
With the Loch (and beyond it the Wick) of Vatsetter in the distance.
Road to Vatsetter And lots of blanket bog.
Road to Vatsetter
And lots of blanket bog.
Loch of Vatsetter A ruined croft above the Loch of Vatsetter, with the narrow ayre separating the loch from the sea just visible beyond.
Loch of Vatsetter
A ruined croft above the Loch of Vatsetter, with the narrow ayre separating the loch from the sea just visible beyond.
Vatsetter Pronounced 'Vatster'; a small group of houses above the loch. Fetlar is in the distance.
Vatsetter
Pronounced 'Vatster'; a small group of houses above the loch. Fetlar is in the distance.
Tow An abandoned croft above the Loch of Vatsetter.
Tow
An abandoned croft above the Loch of Vatsetter.
Hogalee Burn The burn rises on the hill of Hoga Lee and flows into the Loch of Vatsetter but, like several other Shetland burns, it has several names along the way.
Hogalee Burn
The burn rises on the hill of Hoga Lee and flows into the Loch of Vatsetter but, like several other Shetland burns, it has several names along the way.
Moorhouse, North Aywick
Moorhouse, North Aywick
Wreck near Rana The low-lying island of Hascosay is seen across South Sound.
Wreck near Rana
The low-lying island of Hascosay is seen across South Sound.
Ruin at Whitehill An unroofed house standing alone in the landscape - a common sight in Shetland.
Ruin at Whitehill
An unroofed house standing alone in the landscape - a common sight in Shetland.
Whitehill Lighthouse This low light stands about 70ft above the sea and looks north to Hascosay and east to Fetlar.
Whitehill Lighthouse
This low light stands about 70ft above the sea and looks north to Hascosay and east to Fetlar.
Loch of Birrier A dry summer had resulted in a relatively low water level in this shallow loch below the gentle slopes of the White Hill of Vatsetter (to east/right). It was populated by large numbers of birds.
Loch of Birrier
A dry summer had resulted in a relatively low water level in this shallow loch below the gentle slopes of the White Hill of Vatsetter (to east/right). It was populated by large numbers of birds.
Birrier from the bay This broad stack of psammitic rock is linked to mainland Yell by a narrow arch, over which sheep cross to graze its flat top.
Birrier from the bay
This broad stack of psammitic rock is linked to mainland Yell by a narrow arch, over which sheep cross to graze its flat top.
Salt Wick and Vatsetter This north-east facing bay is backed by a beach of shingle and cobbles.
Salt Wick and Vatsetter
This north-east facing bay is backed by a beach of shingle and cobbles.
Sea Cave at Birrier The small island is joined to the mainland of Yell by a narrow strip of grass over this sea cave which is an obvious through-route for passing sea kayakers exploring this exciting stretch of coast.
Sea Cave at Birrier
The small island is joined to the mainland of Yell by a narrow strip of grass over this sea cave which is an obvious through-route for passing sea kayakers exploring this exciting stretch of coast.
North Aywick from the sea
North Aywick from the sea
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Loch of Birrier is located at Grid Ref: HU5488 (Lat: 60.578355, Lng: -1.0133556)

Unitary Authority: Shetland Islands

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///leaned.detection.promising. Near Houbie, Shetland Islands

Nearby Locations

Loch of Birrier Quarls South Taing North Taing The Palyins Quheyinstany Geo

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