Meet the family

Meet the family; birds, insects, fish, amphibians and mammals can all be found in wetlands.

This is your in-depth guide to each of the species within their family, where you can find them and how you can identify them.

Amphibians

Seven species of amphibian – frogs, toads and newts - are native to the UK, many of which might just be found in your garden pond.

Birds of prey

With their supersonic vision, effortless aerial acrobatics and ruthless hunting instincts, the UK’s birds of prey (or raptors) are the undisputed masters of the skies.

Dragonflies and damselflies

Learn more about dragons and damsels with our guide to their characteristics, and some of the species you might spot in the UK.

Ducks

Ducks really are the quintessential water bird, with all species seen below strongly associating with water. They have waterproofed feathers and webbed feet.

Geese

The UK hosts seven species of geese that breed in far northern countries and arrive here in the autumn to spend the winter in relative warmth.

Herons and egrets

You can find these long-necked, pointy-beaked birds wading through the shallows of UK wetlands.

Mammals

Mammals are a key part of wetland ecology. Some are cute, some are fierce, all playing important roles.

Perching birds

Passerines around the world make up more than half of all bird species – and you can see a fair few of them in UK wetlands.

Swans

The largest of the waterbirds, the longest necked, and perhaps one of the most iconic. There are three different species of swan that can be seen in the UK.

Waders

Although they might initially appear to be a group of modest-looking, speckled birds, wading birds are full of subtle beauty, clever adaptations and their own unique quirks.