The cliffs of over 150ft high hold up to 2,000 pairs of guillemots, plus fulmars, kittiwakes, shags, razorbills and a few black guillemots. Various species of gull nest and if your lucky you may even see one of the few nesting puffins. On the cliff top around the lighthouse there are rock pipits, wheatears, linnets, stonechats and a few twites. Butterflies of various species are a common sight as they feed on the many species of plants. Sea pink, spring squill, purple milk vetch and sea campion are to name but a few.

Harbour porpoise, dolphin and even minke whale can sometimes be seen.

Lying offshore to the south-east in Luce Bay is the Scare Rocks. Leased to the RSPB these rocky outcrops hold more than 1,000 breeding gannets, hundreds of guillemots, a few shags and kittiwakes. Grey seals are also numerous around the rocks. This site is not accessible to the public, but you can watch the endless flight of gannets past the Mull.

Opening times: the reserve is open at all times. The seasonal visitor centre is open and staffed from 10am till 5pm, Easter to October.

Admission charges: free, but donations are always welcome.

Location:/B> 5miles (8km) south of Drummore.

Contact summer: 01776 840539 other times 01671 402861. Or visit www.mull-of-galloway.co.uk or www.rspb.org.uk