The interim report shows summary results from May to October 2002. The main report will contain results from May 2002 to April 2003 and will provide more detailed information.

The following findings summarise the findings relating to the natural environment for the Highlands of Scotland Tourist Board (HOST) area. Other similar reports have been produced for the following areas: Caithness and Sutherland, Inverness and Nairn, Skye and Lochalsh, Lochaber, Ross and Cromarty, and Moray, Badenoch and Strathspey.

Main Findings

• 16% of visitors to the HOST area spent time birdwatching, 14% spent time watching marine wildlife with 13% watching land-based wildlife. Visitors from the UK (other than Scotland) were more likely to be involved in these activities than Scottish or overseas visitors.
• 21% of visitors stated that the main reason for visiting the region was the scenery, views or unspoilt environment (the highest ranking reason). 6% mentioned the wildlife, flora and fauna with a similar percentage commenting on the mountains and hills.
• When asked to respond to prompted statements, respondents were positive towards wildlife and walks in the area, particularly in terms of the provision of information. 58% of respondents said that they agreed or agreed strongly with the statement that the opportunity to see wildlife in the Highlands had been an important part of their visit (16% said that it had not be a factor).
• 75% of visitors from the UK (Scotland and the rest of the UK) used their own car during their visit. 67% of overseas visitors used either their own or a hired car. Only 10% of visitors used the train or public bus/coach.
• Visitors were asked whether their visit had met their expectations. For those who said that their visit had been better than expected (23%), 35% said that it was due to good weather (particularly the Highland visitors), 34% commented on the lovely scenery and 4% mentioned the wildlife.

Further Information: