Cornwall is home to a range of diverse, unspoilt landscapes that make it the perfect spot for a range of wildlife to settle down!
From marine mammals to wild horses, there is an interesting mix of wildlife in Cornwall, with plenty of opportunities to try and spot them.
If you are an animal enthusiast or would love the experience of spotting whales and sharks off the coast, then there are many ways in which you can catch a glimpse of the wonderful natural world while on holiday. We share some of the ways in which you can enjoy wildlife watching while in Cornwall.
Lizard Point
Lizard Point is the southern tip of the Lizard Peninsula. As the most south-westerly point of the British mainland, it offers stunning views of the surrounding sea.
From here, you’ll be able to spot a whole host of marine life, including dolphins, sharks and seals. In Cornwall, the common dolphin and the bottlenose dolphin are the most frequently spotted. You’ll see the common dolphin travelling in pods of up to 100 dolphins, jumping out of the water as they swim.
Falmouth
The south coast of Cornwall offers a slightly warmer climate than most areas, drawing in a wide range of sea life. Falmouth is one of the best areas for spotting wildlife, as the deep Falmouth Bay and surrounding rivers and beaches provide the perfect place for a diverse selection of marine life and sea birds.
In Falmouth Bay, you’ll have the possibility of spotting minke whales, bottlenose dolphins, basking sharks, sunfish – and if you’re lucky – humpback whales.
Over at Pendennis Point, you’ll also find several small colonies of seals lounging around on the rocks, while the nearby estuaries are home to a variety of wading birds.
A trip to Falmouth will present you with plenty of opportunities to get a better view of the wildlife from the water, with a range of sea safaris and river cruises that will bring you closer to the assortment of fascinating creatures that call Falmouth home.
Godrevy Point
At Godrevy Point you’ll find Mutton Cove, which at low tide is home to a colony of grey seals! You’ll be able to see them from the cliff tops above, as it is best to avoid disturbing them on the cove.
The best time to spot seals is in the autumn and winter, as pupping season lasts from September to January, and you’ll be able to spot all of the adorable baby seals and their mothers. During January, it’s not unusual to spot up to 100 seals in this sheltered bay area!
Bodmin Moor
Away from the sea, there is also plenty of wildlife to spot inland. A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Bodmin Moor is home to a range of animals, including 10,000 cows, 50,000 sheep and 1,000 horses and ponies!
While local farmers own the ponies, they are free to graze the moorland, so you’re likely to spot some if off on a trek around the area.
Land’s End
With surrounding ocean views to lose yourself staring into, Land’s End is the perfect spot for some wildlife spotting, with the area being a hive of activity for basking sharks, dolphins and seals.
As well as sea life, Land’s End is also popular with a range of birds, including gannets, choughs and falcons.
Cornish Seal Sanctuary
If you want the guarantee of spotting some sea life, then head to the Cornish Seal Sanctuary. Here, seals and other marine life, such as sea lions, penguins and otters are rescued and rehabilitated, with the aim of returning them to their natural environment.
Home to incredible open spaces and an impressive mix of wildlife, a visit to Cornwall is a must for any nature lover. Located in a secluded spot within acres of garden and woodland, The Valley is the perfect place to stay for a luxury Falmouth holiday, with plenty of wildlife watching on the cards!
There’s plenty more to do while staying in Cornwall too, with a wide range of outdoor attractions now open to visitors!