A two and a half sq. km islet off the SW tip of the Isle of Man combining rough pastures and slate cliffs
The Calf of Man is a small, rugged island lying just off the southern coast of the Isle of Man. Owned by Manx National Heritage and managed by the Manx Wildlife Trust, the island is recognised internationally for its rich and diverse wildlife.
At the heart of the island is the Calf of Man Bird Observatory, housed in a converted 19th-century farmhouse. Alongside two historic lighthouses, now disused, the observatory is home to a dedicated team of wardens and volunteers. Together, they carry out vital conservation and research projects, including bird-ringing, habitat monitoring, and the study of breeding bird populations.
The Calf is perhaps best known for its population of Manx Shearwaters, a species once extinct on the island but now thriving thanks to successful rodent eradication efforts. From zero, the colony has grown to approximately 1,500 breeding pairs.
Birdlife on the island is remarkably varied. Year-round residents include Stonechats, Choughs, and Ravens, while seasonal visitors such as Wheatears, Storm Petrels, Hen Harriers, and Kittiwakes can also be seen. The surrounding waters offer excellent sea-watching opportunities, especially in early autumn, with sightings of Eider, auks, and possibly Short-eared Owls.
The Calf has also recorded a number of rare and migratory species through its ringing programmes. Notable sightings include Osprey, Red Kite, Goshawk, Sabine’s Gull, Pechora Pipit, Bluethroat, Aquatic Warbler, Red-breasted Flycatcher, Woodchat Shrike, Eastern Bonelli’s Warbler, Subalpine Warbler and Scarlet Rosefinch.
In addition to birdlife, the island supports a distinctive flock of Loaghtan sheep, a rare Manx breed known for their striking appearance and importance in conservation grazing.
The surrounding waters of the Calf are designated as the Calf of Man & Wart Bank Marine Nature Reserve, a protected area of international significance for both seabirds and marine mammals.
During the open season, boat trips to the Calf depart regularly from Port St Mary and Port Erin, offering day visitors a unique opportunity to explore this remote and ecologically rich island. All visits are weather and tide-dependent, so advance planning is recommended.
The Calf of Man Bird Observatory
Since 1959, organised ornithological work has been carried out on the Calf of Man under the supervision of appointed wardens. In 1962 it became an officially recognised Bird Observatory. The Observatory is located in the former farmhouse in the centre of the islet and is open from spring to autumn each year.
Manx National Heritage is responsible for publishing the annual Calf of Man Bird Observatory Report. This is free to access in the iMuseum Building in Douglas, Isle of Man, otherwise a subscription for access must be paid. Once you’ve made your selection, press return and that will take you to the subscription page.
Visiting the Calf of Man
The only way to reach the Calf of Man is by boat. No camping is allowed on the Calf. There is self-catering accommodation on the Calf of Man at the Observatory. Before booking, read the Calf of Man Visitor Information form. Bookings for visitor accommodation can now be made online. Other enquiries should be directed to Manx National Heritage on +44 (0) 1624 648000 or through enquiries@mnh.gov.im. Since there are no shops on the Calf of Man, visitors must bring all their own provisions. Visitors are also requested to take back any waste to the main island for appropriate disposal.
If you intend to visit the Calf of Man, please follow the Calf of Man code to protect this unique habitat. The Island is a sanctuary. There must be:
– No interference with the Calf’s wildlife
– No climbing equipment
– Dogs are not allowed
– No camping, lighting of fires, barbeques or use of naked flame stoves
– No litter
– No metal detecting
– No digging
Please support our vital work
However you wish to help wild birds and the places in which they live – whether by sending us your bird records, donating, volunteering or supporting our education activities – we look forward to working with your support to make a difference.
