Wildlife

Each season brings its star species and spectacles to Washington Wetland Centre

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

Ancient Spring Gill Wood is carpeted with bluebells and primroses. Grey herons perform elaborate courtship dances and nest-build in the heronry, as lapwings start breeding on Wader Meadow and the regionally rare avocet sits tight on eggs.

Star species: grey heron, common frog, lapwing, avocet, spring flora.

Spend time in Wader Lake hides, observing species including avocet, grey heron and lapwing preparing to breed.

See violet-hued bluebells in Spring Gill Wood and the happy yellows of marsh marigold and gorse around site.

Spot frogspawn in our amphibian ponds, a short stroll along the river footpath from Wader Lake.

Early signs of spring

Spring is a great time to explore our wetlands - find out what key seasonal highlights to look out for.

Find out more

Into the wild

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

Nature reserve

Willow Tit Project

Get involved in our active conservation project as we work together to protect the red-listed willow tit

Find out more

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