Print pageSeasonal highlights
Each season brings a different experience at our nature reserves. In spring, the air is filled with birdsong as they compete to establish territories and attract a mate. In summer, look out for young birds making their first venture into the outside world. Autumn brings large movements of migrating birds - some heading south to a warmer climate, others seeking refuge in the UK from the cold Arctic winter. In winter, look out for large flocks of birds gathering to feed, or flying at dusk to form large roosts to keep warm.
Spring
The hares on the island are most active in early spring. Wading birds and ducks display and nest on the islands in the lagoons. Flowering thrift turns the saltmarshes pink. Common terns, with a few Sandwich terns, return to breed.
Summer
Grassland butterflies - skippers, small coppers, wall and meadow browns and gatekeepers - are common. Migrating wading birds stop off on the lagoons to feed and roost. Wheatears can be seen on the paths and shingle in late summer.
Autumn
Sea aster comes into flower on the saltmarshes. Numbers of winter wildfowl start to increase. Wading birds, such as spotted redshanks pass through on migration. Short-eared owls hunt for mice and voles along the river walls.
Winter
Numbers of wigeon, pintail and teal peak in mid-winter. Birds of prey such as short-eared owls and marsh harriers hunt over the island. Common seals can occasionally be seen in the river.