Noss National Nature Reserve

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Noss is now closed for the winter and will re-open in May 2024 when the Noss ferry service will resume. 

For travel information on how to get to Noss, see the Visiting the reserve page.

Avian influenza (Bird Flu)

Seabird populations including those on Noss were hit hard by Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in summer 2022. This had devastating consequences and resulted in the death of many seabirds across the British Isles. The virus is still circulating widely in wild bird populations across the UK and beyond. To prevent the transmission of the virus by visitors’ biosecurity measures have been in place for all visitors to the island. All footwear had to be free from mud and disinfectant footbaths were provided to disinfect footwear on arrival and departure. We thank our visitors  for supporting this action and helping protect our precious seabird populations. 

A seabird skyscraper

The towering 180-metre sea cliffs of Noss are dramatic. In summer especially, gannets, guillemots and fulmars seem to occupy every available nook on the cliffs. Marauding great skuas – or bonxies, as they’re known locally – nest further inland.

The thrilling 3-minute trip out to Noss in a small inflatable boat is a highlight in itself, as you speed across the waves. The ferry service is run by NatureScot. From landing it’s just a short walk to the visitor centre.

Find out more about visiting Noss NNR.  Podcast - A seabird skyscraper.

Top attractions

  • Get the full multisensory experience, with all the sights, sounds and smells of a seabird high-rise city.
  • Wander the coastal path to learn about the history of the island.
  • Watch out for whales and porpoises.

Learn more about the reserve and its natural history.  Read our annual reports including the recent 2022 report and find out what kind of year it was for the wildlife on Noss.

What’s on?

Visit our Events page to see what upcoming events you can get involved in at this reserve.

Contact

Reserve manager: Juan Brown

NatureScot
Ground Floor
Stewart Building
Alexandra Wharf
Lerwick
ZE1 0LL

Telephone: 07787 864144
Email: [email protected]

Further information

Follow Noss on Facebook for the latest news from the reserve. 

Follow the Scotland's NNR Facebook page for up-to-date information on reserves across Scotland.

Follow NatureScot’s Scotland’s Nature blog and find interesting articles on Scotland’s natural heritage.

Our visitor centre is rated Gold under the GTBS (Green Tourism Business Scheme).

Noss NNR is a member of VisitScotland.

Enjoyed your visit?

  • Make a donation to support nature and visitor facilities on our NNRs.
  • Let us know what you thought on TripAdvisor.   

Discover more about why Scotland’s National Nature Reserves were created and the partners who manage them.

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