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
Herons and egrets nest in woodland. Nightingales return and sing in dense undergrowth. Carpets of bluebells form mid April-May and whitethroats sing from the scrub. Avocets nest on reservoir islands.
Summer
Hobbies hunt dragonflies over the marsh, while marsh Harriers quarter the reedbeds. You could see the rare white-letter hairstreak butterfly in the woodland, or turtle doves on overhead wires.
Autumn
Swallows gather around farm buildings. Noisy jays in wood gathering acorns. Dragonflies fly over reserve in late summer. Migrating waders such as spotted redshanks and green sandpipers may be seen on the reservoirs.
Winter
Large numbers wildfowl gather on marshland floods. Wintering thrushes, finches and buntings gather in scrub. Redwings and fieldfares can be seen in the orchards below wood. 4,000-rook 'spectacular' as they prepare to roost in wood.