The organisers of the forthcoming Outer Hebrides Wildlife Festival have paid tribute to the local community’s enthusiasm to host events.

Commenting on how so many people are getting involved, Festival Coordinator, Sharon MacPherson, said: “Excitement is really building for what is shaping up to be a fantastic celebration of the islands’ incredible wildlife and natural beauty. 

“This year’s festival will offer unique opportunities to experience the nature that makes the Outer Hebrides so special - from seabirds and marine life, to machair habitats and coastal landscapes. We look forward to welcoming all island residents and visitors to this fantastic celebration of nature across the Outer Hebrides!” 

The wildlife festival programme is out now with over 80 community-run events celebrating the extraordinary wildlife, landscapes, and cultural heritage of the Outer Hebrides. 

The main week of this year’s festival will run from June 20 to 27, with a Fringe Festival continuing until the end of July. 

This year’s highly diverse programme features a range of free and paid-for events across the islands. The festival is coordinated by the conservation programme, Species on the Edge, which is funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, in collaboration with local community groups, businesses and conservation charities. 

The festival aims to give locals and visitors alike the opportunity to explore and connect with the wildlife, landscapes and cultural heritage of these islands in new, fun, and locally-rooted ways.  

Moira MacDonald from An Lanntair said: “At An Lanntair, we’re looking forward to taking part in the Outer Hebrides Wildlife Festival again in 2026. 

“Over the past few years, we’ve run arts workshops for children themed around Great Yellow Bumblebees, Bats and Seabirds - basing our activities on some of the amazing species which the festival highlights. 

“And this summer, we’re excited to have the opportunity to run Moth and Butterfly themed workshops – an inspiring catalyst for movement, music and visual arts education. The Outer Hebrides Wildlife Festival brings together a huge range of accessible nature events, and we look forward to this year’s programme.” 

The full programme is available on the Outer Hebrides Wildlife Festival website.

Image content - via NatureScot