Mersehead

Situated on the scenic north shore of the Solway coast, Mersehead is an extensive wetland and saltmarsh area, a haven for breeding waders, wintering waterfowl and year-round bird and wildlife-watching.

Still a working farm, this reserve boasts a wide variety of different habitats and wildlife, from Barnacle Geese in the autumn and winter and Lapwings and Natterjacks Toads in the spring and summer. It's a stunning example of freshwater wetland habitats, wide expanses of intertidal sand and mudflats, woodland, farmland and of course a fabulous beach.

In spring, the air is filled with birdsong as birds compete to establish territories and attract a mate. And you can listen for the croaks of rare Natterjack Toads on the sand dunes come evening. In summer, look out for young birds making their first venture into the world. Autumn brings large movements of migrating birds, including huge flocks of wintering Barnacle Geese. In the winter, see mumurations of Starling swirling around the reedbed as they come into roost.