Risga, shell midden and related structures on SE side of island

Risga is a small rocky island in Loch Sunart, a sea loch on Scotland’s west coast. The island sits in Highland, where the water narrows between steep wooded slopes. A shell midden, known locally as a Køkkenmødding, lies on the south-east side of Risga. The midden is a low mound of shells, bones and stones built up over centuries. Archaeologists found it at the level of the highest post-glacial shoreline. The midden was partly excavated in 1920 and 1921 by A. H. Bishop and L. M. Mann. Their work uncovered tools made from antler, bone and stone, including limpet scoops and harpoons. More than 14 000 flint and quartz artefacts were recovered, a few showing signs of use. The dig also revealed shells, fish bones, crab remains and the bones of seabirds and mammals. Risga’s finds belong to the late Mesolithic Oban culture, shared with nearby Oronsay. The island was probably used as a seasonal camp rather than a permanent home. Its tools differ from other Oban sites, suggesting a distinct local tradition. Excavations elsewhere in Argyll show the Mesolithic period was longer and more varied than once thought. The midden remains a protected scheduled monument on this quiet island.