Wildlife

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

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

Osprey and warblers arrive from the south, hedgerows are busy as nest-building begins, the first wildflowers come into bloom and natterjack toads reveal the origins of their name as they begin making noisy calls to attract mates.

Star species: osprey, sedge warbler, swallow, brown hare, natterjack toad

Discover the importance of Lady's Smock (or Cuckoo flower), to the orange tipped butterfly; a stunning insect abundant across the reserve in April and May - the first butterfly of spring!

Caerlaverock has a good population of brown hares, with regular sightings of them lolloping around the centre, running across fields or taking a nap in the middle of a path!

Warblers from Sub-Saharan Africa begin to return in April, completing their 3-4,000 mile trip at Caerlaverock. They are rewarded with our insect-rich meadows and ponds.

Into the wild

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

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