Orkney in Spring: Wildlife Awakening, Wildflowers, and Easter Events

As winter's grip loosens, Orkney undergoes a vibrant transformation. Spring, spanning from March to May, breathes life into the archipelago's landscapes and stirs its remarkable wildlife from slumber. Longer days, returning migratory birds, unique wildflowers, and lively festivals make this shoulder season an increasingly popular and rewarding time to visit. This guide explores the highlights of experiencing Orkney as it awakens.

Wildlife Wonders Return

Spring marks a period of intense activity in Orkney's natural world.

Puffin Homecoming (Late April/May)

Perhaps the most anticipated arrival! Orkney's beloved Atlantic Puffins, or 'Tammie Norries', return to their cliff-face burrows after months at sea. Witnessing these colourful characters crash-landing with beaks full of sand eels is a true Orkney highlight. Prime locations include the Brough of Birsay, the towering cliffs of Marwick Head, and the vast colony at Castle o' Burrian on Westray. They typically stay until early August.

Hen Harrier Sky-Dancing (March-May)

Spring is the best time to witness the breathtaking aerial courtship display of the Hen Harrier. The ghostly grey males perform dramatic swoops, dives, and tumbles over Orkney's heather moorlands to impress females. Head to RSPB reserves like Cottascarth & Rendall Moss or Birsay Moors for the best chance to see this unforgettable spectacle.

Migratory Arrivals

Orkney is a crucial stopover point for migrating birds. Spring sees the arrival of summer visitors and passage migrants:

• Listen for the bubbling calls of returning Curlews and the 'pee-wit' of Lapwings in farmland and wetlands.
• Watch for the first Wheatears arriving from Africa in March/April, easily identified by their white rumps.
• Arctic Terns return in May, filling the air with their noisy calls at colonies like North Hill, Papa Westray.
• Visit North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory for potential sightings of rare passage migrants.

Coastal Mammals

While seal pups are an autumn sight, adult Grey and Common Seals are readily seen year-round hauled out on skerries and beaches. Otters become more active with longer days; try spotting them at dawn or dusk along sheltered shorelines or near Stromness harbour.

A Carpet of Wildflowers

Orkney's maritime heathlands burst into colour in late spring.

The Jewel: Primula Scotica

The undisputed star is the tiny, delicate Scottish Primrose (Primula scotica), found almost nowhere else in the world outside Orkney, Caithness, and Sutherland. This beautiful magenta flower has two blooming periods, with the first, often most prolific, occurring in May and June. Look for it carpeting grassy cliff tops at locations like Yesnaby, Marwick Head, or the RSPB reserve at Hobbister.

Other Spring Blooms

• Spring Squill: Creates carpets of blue stars on coastal turf from April.
• Sea Campion: White, bladder-like flowers adorn cliffs from May.
• Marsh Marigold: Bright yellow blooms in wetter areas and ditches.
• Heath Spotted Orchids: Begin to emerge on moorlands towards the end of May.

Spring Festivals and Events

Orkney Folk Festival (Late May)

One of the highlights of the Orkney calendar, this internationally renowned festival fills Stromness (and venues across the islands) with world-class folk music, lively pub sessions, ceilidhs, and workshops. The 2025 festival runs from May 22nd to 25th. Booking tickets and accommodation well in advance is essential.

Archaeology Season Begins

Spring often sees the start of archaeological survey work and preparations for summer excavations at sites like the Ness of Brodgar. While major digs might not be fully open to visitors until later, check with the Orkney Research Centre for Archaeology (ORCA) or Historic Environment Scotland for potential site visits or talks.

Easter Traditions

Easter in Orkney is typically a quieter affair focused on community and church events. Look out for local traditions like egg rolling competitions on hillsides (check local press for details) and special services at St Magnus Cathedral.

Spring Weather and Packing Tips

Spring weather in Orkney is notoriously unpredictable. Expect a mix of bright sunshine, brisk winds, and sudden showers. Temperatures gradually rise from around 5°C in March to 12°C in May, but it can feel colder due to wind chill.

Packing Essentials:

• Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers are crucial.
• Multiple layers (thermal base, fleece mid-layer) allow you to adapt.
• Sturdy, waterproof walking boots for coastal paths and potentially muddy fields.
• Warm hat, gloves, and scarf – essential even in May.
• Sunglasses and sunscreen for bright, windy days.
• Binoculars for wildlife watching.

Watch: Orkney's Spring Awakening

To get a sense of Orkney's spring beauty, search YouTube for recent videos using terms like "Orkney spring wildlife highlights" or "Orkney Folk Festival moments". Look for channels like VisitScotland, RSPB Love Nature, or reputable travel vloggers focusing on Scotland.

Conclusion: Embrace the Season of Renewal

Visiting Orkney in spring offers a unique opportunity to witness the islands bursting back into life. With fewer crowds than summer, burgeoning wildlife activity, unique floral displays like the Primula scotica, and vibrant events like the Folk Festival, it's a fantastic time to explore. Be prepared for variable weather, book key accommodation and ferries early, and immerse yourself in the energy of Orkney's spring awakening.

Ready for a spring escape? Find your perfect Orkney Stays accommodation, ideally situated for exploring coastal paths, RSPB reserves, and festival venues.