Print pageStar species
Our star species are some of the most interesting birds you may see on your visit to the reserve.
Everyone knows the cuckoo's call. From late April, listen and watch out for them at Bolton Ings, as the adults arrive and start looking for mates. You could see one flying low across the reeds, similar in shape to a kestrel. | ) |
Huge numbers of lapwings gather in the Dearne Valley in winter. If a bird of prey, such as a peregrine, is in the area, they take to the air in a vast wheeling mass. In spring, nesting lapwings here chase predators away. The protective parents regularly give chase to crows and do not stop their 'mobbing' attacks until the danger has passed. |  |
In spring, watch the display flights of redshanks over the wetlands. Also look out for the adults walking through the water, showing off their long, red legs. |  |
Spring is the time to see male reed buntings at their best at Bolton Ings. They perch in willows within the wet areas of the reserve and sing their simple song. |  |
Another warbler that returns from Africa in spring, the sedge warbler is easy to see because it 'pirouettes' up into the air from the tops of the bushes, singing its scratchy song as it goes. |  |