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.
Switha at a Glance#
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.
Summer
June-August · 8-14°C (46-57°F)
Best weather window for sea crossings and seabird activity.
Late spring
May · 6-12°C (43-54°F)
Migration season for some species and fewer midges than later in the year.
Early autumn
September · 7-13°C (45-55°F)
Fewer visitors, dramatic light, but increasingly variable seas.
Weather & Climate near Switha#
Climate
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.
Air Quality:
AQI 20
Good
Best Time to Visit
AugustMayJune
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
21°
Warmest Month
-1°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Poor | 2° - 7° | 0° | 107 mm | overcast | 83% | 7.3 m/s | 0.0 low | 6.9h |
| February | Poor | 2° - 6° | -1° | 82 mm | overcast | 83% | 6.9 m/s | 0.1 low | 9.1h |
| March | Poor | 2° - 7° | 0° | 94 mm | overcast | 83% | 6.9 m/s | 0.2 low | 11.6h |
| April | Acceptable | 3° - 9° | 2° | 62 mm | overcast | 84% | 6.0 m/s | 0.6 moderate | 14.2h |
| May | Acceptable | 6° - 11° | 5° | 53 mm | overcast | 84% | 5.4 m/s | 0.9 moderate | 16.6h |
| June | Acceptable | 8° - 13° | 11° | 53 mm | overcast | 85% | 5.1 m/s | 1.1 high | 17.9h |
| July | Acceptable | 10° - 15° | 12° | 61 mm | overcast | 86% | 4.8 m/s | 1.1 high | 17.2h |
| August | Good | 10° - 15° | 13° | 72 mm | overcast | 86% | 4.8 m/s | 0.8 moderate | 15.1h |
| September | Acceptable | 8° - 14° | 11° | 97 mm | overcast | 85% | 5.7 m/s | 0.4 low | 12.6h |
| October | Poor | 7° - 11° | 6° | 114 mm | overcast | 84% | 6.4 m/s | 0.2 low | 10.0h |
| November | Poor | 4° - 9° | 3° | 124 mm | overcast | 84% | 6.6 m/s | 0.0 low | 7.6h |
| December | Poor | 3° - 7° | 1° | 113 mm | overcast | 83% | 6.8 m/s | 0.0 low | 6.2h |
