Wildlife

Black-tailed godwits return to breed. Find out how we are working to protect this wetland specialist of the Fens. Enjoy listening to their whickering calls as they pair up and set about raising their young.

A variety of birds display to prospective partners ahead of breeding, their performance a treat for the eyes and ears. Highlights include lapwing, redshank, shoveler, garganey, avocet, little ringed plover and common tern.

The long-distance travels of many bird species mean anything can drop in. Ringed plover, greenshank, sandpipers, terns and ruff use our wetlands as a refuelling stop. Whilst cuckoo, yellow wagtail and sedge warbler stay for summer.

A wealth of dragonflies and damselflies are on the wing in summer. These brightly coloured masters of the air defend territories along the waterways and find a mate. Explore the pond dipping stations for a closer look at their young nymphs.

Adult barn owls are in the last few weeks of feeding chicks, in preparation of venturing out for themselves. The open landscape is fantastic for barn owls, but you might also encounter little owls too, so keep your eyes and ears alert.

A riot of colour, can be enjoyed across our wetlands. Loosestrife, woundwort, meadow rue and flowering rush provide yellow, purple, cream and pink; though a whole rainbow of plants is waiting to be discovered.

Cranes are making a comeback in the Fens. These secretive breeders come together to forage and dance at Welney in the autumn. The flock feeds on the spoils left over from early harvested crops, as well as dropping in to our wetlands.

The willow emerald damselfly is a newcomer to UK wetlands and is expanding its range. Adults can still be seen on the wing into autumn, pairing and laying eggs in the branches of willow overhanging the waterways. On sunny days also look out for darter dragonflies.

As young birds start to fend for themselves and others start to arrive ahead of winter, the increased activity attracts the attention of harriers. Some of these being youngsters themselves, not every hunting attempt will be a success.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of a variety of duck species that make UK wetlands their home in winter. Wigeon, pintail and pochard to name a few, are busy feeding, preening and escaping the talons of birds of prey.

Whooper and Bewick’s swans join the resident mute swans for winter in the Fens. The daily commute of swans from roost site out to the fields to feed and their return at dusk is incredible to witness.

Our wetlands are not only home to a bustling hive of bird activity, but also fantastic space to unwind and enjoy being outdoors even on the shortest days.