Due to its secluded nature and surprisingly wide variety of habitats, Carna acts as a haven for native wildlife at a time when so many species are struggling to find refuge elsewhere. Most of the island is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest and Special Area of Conservation, and the surrounding coastal waters and shoreline of Loch Sunart form part of a Marine Protected Area, together providing homes for a hugely diverse range of flora and fauna.

Whether it is the otters passing daily along the shore, the birds of prey nesting and hunting overhead, the seals pupping on the rocks, the deer grazing around the cottages, wandering foxes and their cubs, or the streams of bees, butterflies and moths feasting on the wildflowers, it does not take long to witness the extraordinary buzz of natural life on Carna, large, small and minute.