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
Booming bitterns can be heard in spring and hobbies reach their highest numbers in May - with up to 40 in the air at any one time. Visiting summer warblers also arrive at this time of year.
Summer
Golden orioles can be spotted feeding their chicks in the nest throughout June. Marsh harriers can also be seen feeding young in mid summer and bittern feeding flights may be visible. There is a profusion of dragonflies and butterflies.
Autumn
Golden orioles, hobbies, turtle doves, warblers and all other summer visitors will have returned to sub-Saharan Africa by October for the winter.
Winter
Cranes may be more visible at this time of year. You could see teals, gadwalls, tufted ducks, wigeons, shovelers and sometimes whooper swans.