Otterhad Geo

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Shetland

Scotland

Otterhad Geo

Proto-wave, Easting
Proto-wave, Easting Credit: Mike Pennington

Otterhad Geo is a prominent coastal feature located in the Shetland Islands, Scotland. It is classified as a headland or a point, extending out into the North Sea. The name "Otterhad" derives from the Old Norse words "otter" meaning otter and "hǫfði" meaning headland, reflecting the historical presence of otters in the area.

Situated on the southwestern coast of Shetland, Otterhad Geo offers breathtaking views of the surrounding rugged coastline and the vast expanse of the sea. The headland is characterized by steep cliffs, rising to impressive heights, which are often battered by strong winds and crashing waves. These cliffs are composed of sedimentary rocks, primarily sandstone and conglomerate, providing a glimpse into the geological history of the region.

The area surrounding Otterhad Geo is rich in wildlife, with various seabirds nesting in the cliffs, including puffins, fulmars, and guillemots. Seals can also be spotted basking on the rocks or swimming in the nearby waters. The headland is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers, offering ample opportunities to observe and capture the region's diverse flora and fauna.

Access to Otterhad Geo is possible via a well-maintained coastal path, which allows visitors to explore the area safely. The path meanders along the cliff edge, providing breathtaking views and opportunities to spot wildlife. It is important to exercise caution while visiting Otterhad Geo due to the steep cliffs and unpredictable weather conditions prevalent in the region.

Overall, Otterhad Geo is a stunning coastal feature that showcases the natural beauty and diversity of the Shetland Islands. Its dramatic cliffs, abundant wildlife, and scenic views make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

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Otterhad Geo Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 60.712242/-0.86093478 or Grid Reference HP6203. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Proto-wave, Easting
Proto-wave, Easting
Common Seal (Phocoena vitulina), Easting
Common Seal (Phocoena vitulina), Easting
Birds on the shore, Easting Oystercatchers and Common Gulls.
Birds on the shore, Easting
Oystercatchers and Common Gulls.
Kelp on Easting beach
Kelp on Easting beach
Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus), Easting
Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus), Easting
Low tide at Easting beach
Low tide at Easting beach
Low tide on Easting beach
Low tide on Easting beach
Easting beach
Easting beach
New Year's dawn, Easting beach
New Year's dawn, Easting beach
Sanderling (Calidris alba), Easting, Unst
Sanderling (Calidris alba), Easting, Unst
Red Bartsia (Odontites vernus), Easting, Unst
Red Bartsia (Odontites vernus), Easting, Unst
Red Bartsia (Odontites vernus), Easting A very rare plant in Shetland, and this is its only site on Unst. It is a hemiparasite, which has chlorophyll but also taps into the roots of other plants.
Red Bartsia (Odontites vernus), Easting
A very rare plant in Shetland, and this is its only site on Unst. It is a hemiparasite, which has chlorophyll but also taps into the roots of other plants.
Sanderling (Calidris alba), Easting Engaged in the classic 'clockwork mouse' run along the tideline.
Sanderling (Calidris alba), Easting
Engaged in the classic 'clockwork mouse' run along the tideline.
Juvenile Arctic Tern (Sterna paradisea), Easting Probably not locally-bred, as terns had yet another poor breeding season in 2015.
Juvenile Arctic Tern (Sterna paradisea), Easting
Probably not locally-bred, as terns had yet another poor breeding season in 2015.
Autumn Gentian (Gentianella amarella), Easting Increasingly scarce native of sandy grassland.
Autumn Gentian (Gentianella amarella), Easting
Increasingly scarce native of sandy grassland.
Coastline at Colvadale Looking across the bay which appears to be named Houll Tafts towards the headland of Whale Back.
Coastline at Colvadale
Looking across the bay which appears to be named Houll Tafts towards the headland of Whale Back.
Coastline at Colvadale Looking south past Murra Skerry.
Coastline at Colvadale
Looking south past Murra Skerry.
Small bridge beside Ter Wick, Colvadale
Small bridge beside Ter Wick, Colvadale
Show me another place!

Otterhad Geo is located at Grid Ref: HP6203 (Lat: 60.712242, Lng: -0.86093478)

Unitary Authority: Shetland Islands

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///riper.wizard.puncture. Near Uyeasound, Shetland Islands

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