7 nature encounters for the month ahead

PODS OF ORCAS ARE DRAWN TO the coasts of northernmost Scotland in the summer months, lured by plentiful prey - especially seal pups. When on the hunt, they can come thrillingly close to rocky headlands, and sightings appear to be increasing.

- Ben Hoare

Northern sights

It's unclear if this is simply due to more people looking for these exciting cetaceans in Scotland, thanks to their starring role in the BBC's 2023 series Wild Isles.

Summer pups

AUGUST IS ONE OF THE BUSIEST TIMES of the year at colonies of common seals (known as harbour seals in North America). Breeding beaches are full of adult females loafing on the sand, and with them are the summer's adorable pups, one per mum. By now, the pups will mostly be several weeks old, as the pupping season usually gets underway in June and births peak in July. The youngsters suckle for around a month, or maybe up to six weeks, during which time they gain weight incredibly fast on their mothers' fat-rich milk.

Meanwhile, the mature male seals, or bulls, are getting ready to mate. As soon as a female has weaned her pup, she is ready to mate again. This may seem tough, but she will pause and later restart the development of her nine-month pregnancy to ensure the baby is born on time the following June or July. To avoid disturbing breeding seals, the best way to enjoy watching them is from a boat trip or through a telescope.