Back in May, I finally got to visit the Isle of Mull for the very first time, and I can honestly say it was one of the most unforgettable wildlife trips I've ever been on.
Mull has been on my bucket list for years. I'd seen countless incredible photographs and heard so many stories about its amazing wildlife, but nothing compares to seeing it with your own eyes. From the moment we arrived, I knew it was going to be somewhere special. The dramatic landscapes, peaceful lochs and rugged coastline make it one of the most beautiful places I've ever visited.
One of the biggest highlights of the trip was seeing White-tailed Eagles for the first time.
Watching the UK's largest bird of prey soaring effortlessly over the landscape was an experience I'll never forget. Their sheer size is incredible, and seeing them in the wild after dreaming about it for so long was a real pinch-me moment. As a wildlife photographer, being able to photograph such an iconic species was something I'd hoped for, and it certainly didn't disappoint.
Another unforgettable day was our boat trip to Staffa and Lunga. The scenery alone was breathtaking, but arriving at Lunga and seeing Puffins up close was simply magical. They're every bit as charismatic as everyone says they are, and watching them waddle around carrying beakfuls of sand eels was an absolute joy.
As if that wasn't enough, we were lucky enough to spot a Corncrake—another first for me! It's one of those birds that many people hear but never actually see, so catching a glimpse of one felt incredibly special. It was definitely one of those unexpected moments that made the trip even more memorable.
One of the absolute highlights of the holiday was joining Mull Charters for a wildlife boat trip on Loch na Keal. It gave us the incredible opportunity to see White-tailed Eagles much closer than we ever imagined. Watching these magnificent birds fly over the boat and seeing just how enormous they are at close range was breathtaking. It gave me a whole new appreciation for these incredible birds, and photographing them in such a stunning setting was an experience I'll treasure forever.
What I loved most about Mull wasn't just the wildlife—it was the feeling of being completely surrounded by nature. Around every corner there seemed to be something new to discover, whether it was soaring raptors, seabirds, deer or simply the spectacular scenery that makes the island so unique.
As an 18-year-old wildlife photographer, trips like this remind me exactly why I picked up a camera in the first place. It's about more than just taking photographs; it's about experiencing wildlife, learning about the species we share our world with, and creating memories that will stay with me forever.
Leaving Mull was difficult. It quickly became one of my favourite places in the UK, and I know this was only my first visit—not my last. There are still so many places to explore, species to photograph, and adventures waiting for me on this incredible island.
If you've never been to the Isle of Mull, I can't recommend it enough. Whether you're hoping to see White-tailed Eagles, photograph Puffins, or simply enjoy some of the UK's most spectacular scenery, it's a destination that truly has something for every wildlife lover.
I know I'll be back—and next time, I'll be counting down the days until I see those magnificent White-tailed Eagles soaring over Mull once again.