RSPB Bird Reserve:

This reserve is in Lochwinnoch, on one of Scotland's precious wetland sites. You can see woodpeckers and ospreys. It has several nature trails, and also has two dedicated feeding stations. It is open all year round and hosts different events and species each season. www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/l/lochwinnoch

Macduff Marine Aquarium: See the creatures of the Moray Firth, Scotland's largest bay, in this aquarium in Aberdeenshire. Marine wildlife ranges from jellyfish to eels and dogfish, with recreations of terrain including wild reefs and rocky coast. It also includes touch pools, to get closer to the action, and daily live feeding shows. www.macduff-aquarium.org.uk

Scottish Beaver Trial: In Knapdale Forest, in Argyll, this project is the first attempt to re-introduce wild beavers, extinct for more than 400 years. The trail begins in Barnluasgan, and ends three miles away in Loch Coille Bharr. There are guided tours throughout the summer, and night visits to watch the beavers in their natural habitat.

www.scottishbeavers.org.uk

Scottish Deer Centre: Set in 55 acres of the Fife countryside, the deer centre has a variety of deer species, alongside other animals including wildcats, lynx, otters, and one of Scotland's few wolf packs. The park also has daily vehicle tours, where you can see the animals being fed up close. There is a treetop walk, where you can hopefully see red squirrels. www.tsdc.co.uk

Whale Cruises: This cruise offers the choice of two distinct tours from Gairloch. One is to the open waters of the North Minch, with the chance to see whales, dolphins and sharks. The other trip, around the shores of Loch Gairloch, has wildlife including puffins and deer. The tours range from an hour and a half to four hours. www.hebridean-whale-cruises.co.uk/index.php