Spring Wildlife Highlights at Washington Wetland Centre
Spring has brought a burst of colour and activity to Washington Wetland Centre. As the weather warms, the reserve is full of wildlife for visitors to enjoy, from butterflies and orchids to busy breeding birds.
Spring has transformed Washington Wetland Centre with vibrant colours and renewed energy. As temperatures rise, the reserve comes alive with wildlife for visitors to spot, from fluttering butterflies and blooming orchids to birds busy with their breeding season.
Butterflies and Moths Bringing Spring Colour
This spring has seen an excellent variety of butterflies across the reserve. Visitors have spotted Painted Lady, Common Blue, Meadow Brown, Small Skipper, Large Skipper, Red Admiral, Comma, Speckled Wood and Orange Tip. Our moth trap has also recorded impressive species including Elephant Hawk moth and Poplar Hawk moth.
Dragonflies and Damselflies Emerging for Spring
Dragonflies are now active around the ponds, with regular sightings of Broad bodied Chaser and Common Darter.
Damselflies are also appearing in good numbers, including Azure Damselfly, Blue tailed Damselfly and Banded Demoiselle.
Spring Orchids in Bloom
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy the reserve’s orchids. Visitors can look out for Pyramidal Orchid, Common Spotted Orchid and the striking Bee Orchid flowering across the site.
Breeding Bird Success Across the Reserve
Spring has been a productive season for many of our birds.
- Barn Swallows nesting in the tool store are feeding four healthy chicks.
- The old oak meadow Kestrels have three chicks that are almost ready to fledge.
Across the reserve, young Robins, Wrens, Blackbirds, Pied Wagtails and Great Spotted Woodpeckers have already fledged.
Visitors may also spot juvenile Stock Doves, Oystercatchers and dispersing Grey Herons.
On the water, Black headed Gull chicks are growing well, and families of Coot, Moorhen, Shelduck and Tufted Duck can be seen exploring the ponds and lagoons.
Ready to visit?
If you've been inspired to explore Washington Wetland Centre, find out more and plan your visit below.
