Unrivalled in the beauty stakes, the Highlands are a feast for the eyes. But there is more than scenery to this region - it is home to a rich array of wildlife.

The northern climate makes the Highlands a home for species not seen in the milder south. Many animals characteristic of the Highlands found refuge here long after they had disappeared from the rest of Britain and can still be spotted today.

Red Deer
For many, the iconic red deer is the emblem of Scotland, the so-called "Monarch of the Glen" with its magnificent antlers and proud stance. With some 300,000 deer in Scotland, spotting one shouldn't be a problem, but the stags are at their finest in spring, before they shed their antlers for summer.

Reindeer
You may think these animals are more suited to the frozen wastes of Lapland, but reindeer have been reintroduced to Scotland after they died out naturally before Roman times. A free-ranging herd now roams the Cairngorms.

Pine Marten
Along with the wild cat, pine martens decreased to the point of rarity but are now thriving again as reforestation has given them back their safe habitat.

Osprey
In 1955, a pair of osprey were seen nesting on Loch Garten on Speyside, marking a return to Scotland for the birds of prey. There are now more than 100 pairs in Scotland.

Red Squirrel
A rare sighting in most parts of Britain, the red squirrel thrives in Scotland. Distinguished from its common grey cousin by its chestnut coat, you'll have to look close to catch a glimpse of it as it scampers through piles of leaves or scuttles up into the treetops.

Otter
Three decades ago there were fears the otter would become extinct in the British Isles, but it has found a stronghold here and the Highlands offer your best chance of spotting one of these playful creatures. Watching one diving for fish or romping with its cubs along lonely coastlines and lochs is an experience to remember.