Skerries of Coubister

The Skerries of Coubister is a coastal marsh and saltings area located in the Orkney Islands, Scotland. It is situated on the eastern coast of the island of Mainland, near the village of Coubister. Covering an area of approximately 60 hectares, the Skerries of Coubister is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Protection Area (SPA) due to its importance for breeding and wintering birds.

The landscape of the Skerries of Coubister is characterized by a series of small islands and rocky outcrops, which are submerged during high tide and exposed during low tide. These tidal skerries provide an ideal habitat for a wide range of bird species. The area is particularly renowned for its breeding colonies of seabirds, including guillemots, kittiwakes, and razorbills. Other bird species that can be spotted here include puffins, fulmars, and shags.

The coastal marsh and saltings of the Skerries of Coubister also support a diverse range of plants and invertebrates. Salt-tolerant vegetation such as sea aster, thrift, and sea plantain can be found in the area, providing food and shelter for various insects and butterflies. The marshes are also important for wading birds, such as redshanks and oystercatchers, which feed on the invertebrates found in the mudflats.

Due to its ecological significance, the Skerries of Coubister is protected under various conservation designations, and access to the area may be restricted during certain times of the year to ensure the undisturbed breeding and feeding of the wildlife. Visitors to the site can enjoy guided walks, birdwatching opportunities, and the chance to immerse themselves in the stunning coastal scenery of the Orkney Islands.