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WWT Martin Mere Announces New Wet Meadow Habitat and Self-Guided Bug Hunt Experience

WWT Martin Mere Announces New Wet Meadow Habitat and Self-Guided Bug Hunt Experience

WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre is excited to announce the development of a brand new wet meadow habitat and self-guided bug hunt experience, inviting visitors to explore and discover the incredible diversity of life found in wetlands.

Area shows a sunken pathway being built into the ground

Photo shows the process of building in the sunken walkway into the ground

Opening in August, the newly developed wet meadow will invite visitors to get immersed in nature. Visitors can choose their route through the landscape:

  • Follow the blue route for a watery walk through shallow pools (up to 6cm deep)
  • Stick to the green route for a drier, ground-level path

As part of this new development, WWT Martin Mere is also launching a self-guided bug hunt experience. In the bug hunting zone, visitors are encouraged to look high and low: gently lift logs, sift through leaves, and peer at the water’s surface to discover the miniature ecosystems buzzing beneath our feet.

Area shows a sunken pathway being built into the ground

Photo shows the process of building in the sunken walkway into the ground with ramps being built for accessibility.

The development comes after the recently installed wet play area, ‘Paddle and Play’, continuing the investments into the centre for families to enjoy.

Nick Brooks, Centre Manager at WWT Martin Mere, said “These new experiences at Martin Mere are all about celebrating the unseen heroes of our wetlands - the bugs, the biodiversity, and the landscapes that quietly sustain our natural world.

“We hope to inspire visitors to learn, explore, and even take simple actions at home to help protect the insects and habitats we all depend on."

But it doesn’t stop there, WWT Martin Mere plans to add some of the longest stepping stones in the North West to the new wet meadow area. So, once visitors have walked through the sunken walkway, they will be able to continue their journey across the lake.

Area shows a sunken pathway being built into the ground

Photo shows the end of the new sunken pathway leading to the proposed stepping stones

This exciting new development is part of WWT’s ongoing mission to create wetlands for wildlife and people. Whether you're splashing through shallow waters or spotting beetles under the leaves, WWT Martin Mere offers a one-of-a-kind chance to connect with nature.

Keep an eye on our website for any updates!

Thank you to the Lancashire Environmental Fund (LEF) for supporting this project.


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