Blog
Rising temperatures are triggering changed responses in animal populations in the Arctic, new data shows
The Arctic is in the process of entering a new ecological phase, which potentially carries a huge cost for humanity. WWT have taken part in a global study to shed light on how climate change might be affecting high Arctic species.
Migrations series: how birds use wetlands as migration service-stations
Migration is one of the biggest events in a bird’s life, and many rely on wetlands to get them home. From well-known wildlife destinations to more modest, muddy wetlands, here are just some of the world’s most important migration stopover sites.
What lies beneath: monsters of the marsh – myths and realities
We’ve sifted through the murky depths of wetlands’ worst to assemble a horror cast of bone-chilling, boggy beasts. Real or not, this line-up is the stuff of nightmares. We dare you to dive below to find out more. Please paddle carefully
Wetland Warriors: Tadpole shrimp and tardigrades
There are two wetland animals that are unparalleled in their ability to survive whatever is thrown at them; extreme radiation, the vacuum of space… Being microwaved. Yes, it's the unassumingly named water bears and tadpole shrimp.
Nights, camera, action! Device to record voyaging eels during hours of darkness installed at Gloucestershire reserve marking World Fish Migration Day
A new acoustic camera has been fitted at WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre to monitor eels embarking on their epic migratory voyage.
Nature and our mental health: An interview with Jolie Goodman of the Mental Health Foundation
Social prescribing and embedding an urban wellbeing network of wild spaces are ways we can make nature more accessible for all. Read more about how this works in our interview with Jolie Goodman from the Mental Health Foundation.
How wearable tech shows that urban wetlands can benefit stressed-out city dwellers
Urban wetlands can help biodiversity, prevent flooding and our wellbeing, and should be a priority. So WWT’s Evidence team, along with Imperial College London, undertook an innovative study to help us make the case to decisionmakers and communities.
Migrations series: Which birds are arriving in the UK in autumn?
Lively, noisy and often spectacular, winter migratory birds are a welcome sight as the nights draw in, bringing new life to the landscape. Here are a few common migratory species to welcome back.
A sanctuary for nature, and for you: explore the UK this autumn
As the weather changes and the temperatures drop, wildlife heads to the nearest wetland. Here birds and animals find a welcome retreat to spend the winter. Take a leaf out of nature’s book and explore one of our wetland centres this autumn.
A spotlight on wetland wildlife - September 2020
Come with us on a journey across our reserves during the busy month that was September. Birds are truly on the move with autumn migration in full swing and the weather is feeling just that little bit cooler. Summer visitors are gone and the next shift is
EU countries choose health over poison in historic vote to ban lead shot in wetlands
A huge leap towards ending the suffering of millions of waterbirds from lead poisoning has been taken following a momentous vote to ban lead shot in and around wetlands.
When traditional flood defences are no longer enough: wetlands and flood prevention
Scientists predict that one of the impacts of our climate emergency will be heavier rainfall and greater frequency and strength of storms. Find out how we can use wetlands to help reduce flooding in a sustainable and cost-effective way.
A spotlight on wetland wildlife - August 2020
We take you on another tour of our sites to see what the wildlife has been up to during August. Now is the time for the last broods of birds to be fledging, for our summer visitors to start thinking about heading south and for new arrivals to appear. I
The wetlands protecting Cambodia in times of crisis
We’ve always known wetlands play an important role in many countries in the world, providing food, water and income for the most vulnerable. This was thrown into stark reality for many Cambodian locals during the COVID-19 outbreak.
How wetlands can help us look after our water
The water situation in the UK is precarious, yet a clean and reliable water supply is vital for many businesses. Water companies, the drinks industry, agriculture, horticulture and energy companies are just some that spring to mind. Over-abstraction, wher