The island of Rum is part of the Inner Hebrides, off the west coast of Scotland to the south of the much larger island of Skye. Rum is an internationally important nature reserve and wildlife research site. Managed by Scottish Natural Heritage, the island has been a National Nature Reserve (NNR) since 1957. Rum has also featured prominently in past series of the BBC's Autumnwatch programme.

First year undergraduates taking pathways such as Zoology or Animal Behaviour have the opportunity to spend three days on Rum in October, to coincide with the rutting season of the island's large population of red deer (Cervus elaphus). These magnificent animals are relatively easy to observe on Rum, as are seals, golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) and many species of seabirds, including manx shearwaters (Puffinus puffinus). On previous field trips to Rum, students have been lucky enough to see otters (Lutra lutra), as well as dolphins and porpoises and even whales on the crossing to the island.

The emphasis of this optional trip is on the observation and identification of British wildlife in the field, particularly mammals and birds. There is no formal assessment of fieldwork carried out during the fieldtrip.

Travel to Rum is by overnight coach, and ferry (Caledonian MacBrayne). Accommodation on the island is in hostel-style rooms in the imposing Kinloch Castle (the Castle has a drying room and a bar - both equally important!).

Students are expected to make a substantial contribution towards their travel and accommodation costs (currently around £200 per student) and to provide their own food.

NOTE: The terrain on Rum is rough and the weather is often very wet and windy. Students wishing to go on this field trip should have a good level of physical fitness to be able to participate in some of the activities and be prepared to walk several miles over rough ground. All students going to Rum must have appropriate waterproof clothing and stout footwear.


For further information, please contact Dr Alvin Helden.
Email: alvin.helden@anglia.ac.uk

Photos from our field trip.....

Click image to enlarge