Wildlife

Each season brings its star species and spectacles to Martin Mere Wetland Centre

For the most up-to-date reserve news, view our Latest sightings

With 600 acres of amazing wetland scenery, you can discover many species of wildfowl at Martin Mere as you explore nature this spring.

Star species: black-headed gull, Cetti’s warbler, kingfisher, marsh harrier, avocet, orange-tip butterfly

The islands on the mere are full of life with upto 1000 black-headed gulls building their nests, watch their squabbles and look out for the first chicks hatching in May.

Cetti's warblers, with their explosive song, are often heard and not seen. We have up to 25 pairs on the reserve, with most of them on the reedbed walk.

Footpaths between hides are full of orange tip butterflies in spring where their favourite food plants cuckoo flower and garlic mustard grow.

A wild guide to spring

Use our guide to make the most of spring wildlife at Martin Mere. Enjoy your wetland adventure!

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Into the wild

Find out more about the reserve and how you can view wildlife

Nature reserve

North West Wetland Photographer of the Year

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Plan your visit

Now you know a bit more about what to expect, find your way here, along with other important information.

Plan your visit