Otter Heaven (Day 12 - The Last Day)

We decided to wind things down for the last day - it was Jacq's holiday after all! Later in the afternoon, we caught up with our old friend, the large dog otter. He was cruising the shoreline, picking off crabs and fish with the incoming tide. Even after two weeks, he was as wary as ever and it took a further hour to get into a suitable position. Just when I thought things were going to plan, another photographer appeared right behind me. At first I was furious, but calmed myself down and told myself "these otters belong to no one". Thankfully, the photographer stayed put behind a large boulder and I was immensely grateful for their patience.

However, the male otter had sensed her presence and hurried to finish-off a large crab. I took four frames, then he dived. It was one of those meaningful dives that meant I would not see it again. After waiting for a few minutes (just in case), I returned to the loch road and walked back to the car, where Jacq had been watching the scene unfold. She had seen the otter dive and tracked it all the way back to the car! It was the last afternoon of the last day and we just watched this dog otter fishing and swimming along. I was contented and knackered! I have to say, it was my most productive trip to date. I think the days of battling the elements and limited daylight hours are over for me. I will return, I am sure. But probably not until next May/June. The Isle of Mull is truly and amazing place. If you have read this and enjoyed it, make the effort and travel to the Hebrides. You won't be disappointed!

• Getting there: I usually drive to Oban and catch the Caledonian MacBrayne Ferry from Oban to Craignure. It takes about 45mins to cross and the ferry has regular and frequent departures. If you arrive at Craignure then you will already be in the south of the Island which is the best for scenery and wildlife.
  
• Highly recommended places to stay: Barrachandroman (B&B or Self Catering on Loch Spelve) & Twelve Oaks (Self Catering near Loch Don). I have stayed at both these places and they all provide very comfortable accommodation and the hosts are very special people and good friends.
• Other recommended places to stay: Pennyghael Hotel - Hotel accommodation or Self-catering cottages right on the shore of Loch Scridain