Switha
Island Small uninhabited Scottish island noted for seabirds
Small uninhabited island south of Orkney known for seabird colonies and seal haul-outs; reached only by private boat, it draws birdwatchers and photographers on short excursions.
How to Get to Switha #
Access is only by private boat from Shetland’s mainland or nearby larger islands. Landings are weather‑dependent and should be made with experienced local skippers; there is no visitor infrastructure.
Tips for Visiting Switha #
- Approach with a plan: there's no infrastructure on Switha - landings require experienced small-boat operators.
- Respect nesting bird restrictions; some islets are off-limits during the breeding season.
- Bring kelp‑covering gloves if attempting landings; the rocks are often slick with seaweed and barnacles.
Best Time to Visit Switha #
Summer months offer the most reliable access by boat; always check sea conditions and local guidance.
Weather & Climate near Switha #
Continental climate with cool summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 2°C to 15°C. Abundant rainfall (1032 mm/year), wettest in November.
January
January is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (107 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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February
February is the coolest month with highs of 6°C and lows of 2°C. Regular rainfall (82 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 2°C. Regular rainfall (94 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (62 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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May
May is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 13°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (72 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 8°C. Regular rainfall (97 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 7°C. Significant rainfall (114 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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November
November is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 4°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (124 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (113 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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