Whooper swans return to WWT Welney

Flocks of whooper swans have begun to arrive at WWT Welney as they complete their annual winter migration. The whooper swan is an iconic migratory species visiting from Iceland, joined at Welney by black-tailed godwits and increasing numbers of pink-footed geese in recent winters. Having spent the summer in Iceland for breeding season, they leave as the cold conditions return, preferring the relative warmth of Welney.

By Tuesday 7th October, WWT Welney recorded its first significant influx of whooper swans, with over 200 birds counted on the main lagoon in the early morning.

Whooper Swans are easily recognised by their striking bright white plumage and yellow and black beaks. Their hauntingly beautiful calls are a familiar sound across wetlands and local arable land, and they provide a breath-taking backdrop as they settle in for the winter.

Though they look similar to the Bewick's Swan, a species that migrates to WWT Welney later in winter, whooper swans are larger and feature more yellow on their beaks. Seeing these majestic birds up close is a highlight for visitors, offering a glimpse of one of nature’s most iconic migratory species.

Visiting WWT Welney this winter gives you the chance to witness the incredible whooper swans and other winter visitors such as the pink-footed geese, pochard, and wigeon.

For those wanting the chance to see the fantastic autumn and winter wildlife, WWT Welney is putting on a range of events such as daily commentated swan feeds from 3.30pm Saturday 1 November, as well as weekly floodlit commentated swan feeds from 6.30pm Saturday 15 November (Saturdays only) , and fortnightly early morning Wetland Wakeups from 6.30am Saturday 15 November.

Now is the perfect time to visit as all trails and footpaths are open and the low water level mean there is a wide range of wildlife to enjoy. 

Fantastic wildlife events

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