The Wildlife Wonders of Cornwall in Summer

Cornwall is a paradise for wildlife lovers, especially in summer when the coast and countryside are buzzing with life. From towering cliffs teeming with seabirds to peaceful inland paths where butterflies dance in the wildflowers, the county offers unforgettable encounters with nature.

Clifftop Dramas and Coastal Visitors

Summer is a busy time for Cornwall’s cliff-dwelling birds. On the North Coast, especially between places like St Agnes Head and Trevose Head, you'll often spot guillemots, razorbills, and fulmars nesting on the ledges. Kestrels and peregrine falcons are also common sights, scanning the cliffs for prey.

Out to sea, nature can offer spectacular surprises. Basking sharks – the gentle giants of Cornish waters – occasionally glide past The Lizard Peninsula and Mount’s Bay, while dolphins, porpoises, and even minke whales may be spotted offshore, especially during calm, sunny spells.

Inland Encounters and Hedgerow Life

Venture inland along Cornwall’s many country lanes and footpaths and you’ll discover a different kind of wildlife. Meadow brown and red admiral butterflies flutter among the grasses, while dragonflies hover over ponds and streams. Listen for the chirping of grasshoppers and the warble of finches in the hedgerows.

At dusk, hedgehogs, foxes and even the occasional badger may venture out, while the haunting call of a tawny owl echoes through the woods of West Cornwall and the Roseland Peninsula.

Where to Spot Cornwall’s Summer Wildlife

Cornwall offers a wide range of natural habitats, and some of the best areas for summer wildlife watching include:

• The Lizard Peninsula – home to rare plants, butterflies and coastal birds, with a dramatic shoreline often visited by marine mammals.
• West Cornwall – inland paths and quiet moors around places like Zennor and Sancreed offer great chances to spot birds of prey and small mammals.
• North Cornwall – areas around Bude, Crackington Haven, and Boscastle provide rugged cliffs, rockpools and secluded nature walks.
• The Camel Estuary and Gannel Estuary – ideal for wading birds, seals, and peaceful summer strolls.

Tips for Summer Wildlife Spotting in Cornwall

1. Go early or late – wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk.
2. Bring binoculars – they make all the difference for spotting seabirds and marine life.
3. Take your time – slow, quiet walking increases your chances of close encounters.
4. Respect the habitat – stick to footpaths and observe from a distance to protect the wildlife.