Isle of May NNR

The Isle of May National Nature Reserve (NNR) lies on the east coast of Scotland, in the entrance of the Firth of Forth. For its small size it has a tremendous variety of wildlife and is renowned for its rich bird life, seals and reefs. During the summer months the cliffs on the Isle of May are home to spectacular seabird colonies, and in the autumn the largest Atlantic grey seal colony in eastern Britain breeds on ‘the May’, as it is known locally. In the spring and autumn the island is an important site for migrant birds passing to and from their breeding grounds. The island has an impressive cultural history stretching back thousands of years.

It is one of over forty National Nature Reserves (NNRs) in Scotland. Scotland’s NNRS are special places for nature, where some of the best examples of Scotland’s wildlife are managed. Every NNR is carefully managed for both nature and people, giving visitors the opportunity to experience and enjoy our rich natural heritage.

The island is managed by NatureScot as a National Nature Reserve for wildlife and people. For information on visiting have a look at the our website.

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