Blog
Spring stories from WWT’s wetlands
After a long winter, WWT’s hard-working teams of reserve staff and volunteers have been busy getting our wetlands ready for spring. Resident species are kicking off the breeding season, while migrant birds are just arriving. They’re followed by the first dragonflies on the wing, too – it’s a true time of change.
The amazing biodiversity of saltmarshes
From the tiniest marine worm to the most spectacular flock of waders, saltmarshes support a huge abundance of biodiversity around the world. Read on to discover some of these remarkable species, and how WWT is shining a light on this understudied habitat.
Next steps for Godwit Futures
At long last, spring has sprung. The swallows are back, cuckoos are calling, and our wetlands are bursting into life. Adorably fluffy greylag goslings, mallard ducklings and moorhen chicks can all be spotted waddling about on their first wetland adventures. Spring also heralds an important moment for black-tailed godwits across our WWT sites.
Restoring wings over wetlands
High above Welsh wetlands and the Severn Estuary, something essential has been missing.
Community wetlands: nature shaped by people
When we think of wetlands, we might imagine vast reedbeds or open estuaries stretching to the horizon. Yet across towns and cities, smaller wetlands are quietly shaped, restored and cared for by the people who live alongside them.
Winter Stories from WWT’s Wetland Reserve
Winter is a busy time for wildlife across all ten of our wetland reserves. From swans to shoveler, geese to godwits and otters to owls, every site has its own series of winter wonders.
Early Life
Bright green leaves have started to emerge, tadpoles take their first swim on freshly formed tails, adorably fluffy mallard chicks are spotted following their mothers on their first adventures and butterflies once again take to the air, dotting the spring air with flaps of colour. New life is stirring up all around us.
Wetland species to spot in your city
When thinking about cities, you may not imagine wetlands and wildlife. Yet woven between roads and buildings are pockets of water that quietly support life.
Weaving across the World: why traditional craft is vital for wetlands
The undulating song of a Cetti’s warbler rises and falls over the swaying reeds. A secretive bittern – heard but seldom seen – booms across a rippling landscape. Water rails and moorhens skirt the protection of the reeds at the water’s edge.
Clay, culture, and Castle Espie: an interview with resident artist Tracey Johnston
Visit the Bothy at WWT Castle Espie, you’re more than likely to see ceramicist Tracey Johnston at work behind her pottery wheel. Maybe a raven calls, or a robin flies in – every time, she’ll stop and invite you to listen.
What’s in a name? The hidden history flowing through Britain’s rivers
By Professor Christian Dunn, WWT Trustee and Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor at Bangor University
Top 9 rare birds 2025
Another top birdwatching year across WWT’s wetlands is in the bag and that means it’s time for a roundup. There’s been some phenomenal sightings including a huge influx of glossy ibis, along with only the second record of a special raptor for the UK.
2025: WWT’s wildlife roundup
As the festive period approaches and the year draws to a close, we’re reflecting on a fantastic 2025. Your continued support this year has, as always, been incredible and together we've achieved so much for wetlands and their wildlife.
The climate crisis is changing our wetlands – but you can help
What happens to our wildlife when the climate changes around them? When their once beloved habitats become water-logged by extreme rain, or their feeding grounds disintegrate under the rising temperature of the sun?
Autumn stories from WWT’s wetland reserves
Our wetland reserves have seen a vibrant mix of wildlife highlights this autumn. From Caerlaverock to Arundel, each site has had its own amazements and accomplishments.