There are more than 400 pairs of golden eagle in Scotland, many in the Highland area. Summer visiting osprey can be surprisingly conspicuous and have spread beyond their old strongholds along the River Spey. Red kite can be seen frequently while driving on the A9 north of Inverness, though the other re-introduced species, the sea eagle, takes more spotting in the Skye area.

Close circuit tv cameras at osprey, hen harrier, red kite and sea eagle nests in various parts of the Highlands deliver a close-up portrait to the visitor - but nothing will compare to your own first eagle sighting in the wild. Remember, it looks much bigger and darker than the widespread (and much smaller) buzzard!