The RSPB: Exe Estuary

23°C

50.675492,-3.481016

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Photo by Andy Hay

Photo by Andy Hay

Exe Estuary is one of the best places for wildlife in the UK.

Come to Darts Farm to explore the nature trails around the newly-created wetlands
Walk or cycle along Bowling Green Lane, and listen for small hedgerow birds staking claim to territories
Count the wheeling lapwings over Exminster Marsh from the elevated canal bank path on the west side of the river

At Darts Farm, book a place on an evening walk for a chance to see a barn owl
Stroll from Bowling Green Lane round the Goat Walk to the Passage House Inn and take the foot ferry to visit Exminster Marshes
Learn to identify Exminster Marsh's flowers, such as flag iris, and also try to spot camouflaged lapwing and redshank chicks feeding beside the pools

Watch out for ospreys which have stopped to feed around the Exe on their way to Africa
Take an RSPB Avocet cruise to see the avocets – part of the amazing spectacle of winter wildfowl and waders; or visit Bowling Green Hide when the birds are pushed off the estuary by the rising tide
Spoilt for choice – visit the finch flocks feeding in Powderham Marsh's arable fields (refreshments available at the Swan's Nest) or on a rising tide, marvel at the gathering flocks of waders on the estuary (refreshments at the Turf Hotel)

Watch hundreds of wintering brent geese from the comfort of the Darts Farm centre
Take an RSPB Avocet cruise to see the avocets – part of the amazing spectacle of winter wildfowl and waders; or visit Bowling Green Hide when the birds are pushed off the estuary by the rising tide
Experience a frosty dawn and the cacophony of whistling wigeons and tinkling teals on Exminster Marsh