Millions of migratory swans, geese and ducks are arriving in Britain after long and arduous flights from colder regions and can be seen at some of the UK’s nine Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust centres. They will overwinter at UK wetlands which provide food and safety until temperatures rise sufficiently for the birds to return to breeding sites. Their stay at WWT sites creates some of the most memorable natural spectacles anywhere in the UK – get yourself along to one to experience a truly magical sight.
The UK is one of the most important places for migratory waterbirds with its long coast line and protected reserves. WWT centres are central to ensuring these birds’ survival. Last year, WWT Martin Mere in Lancashire had the best autumn migration in 15 years, with more than 1,300 whooper swans and 30,000 pink-footed geese.
More than 9,000 whooper and Bewick’s swans overwintered at WWT Welney in Norfolk while WWT Caerlaverock on the Solway Firth is expecting more than 35,000 barnacle geese
WWT’s Castle Espie reserve overlooking Strangford Lough in Northern Ireland hosts most of the world’s light-bellied brent geese while around 35,000 migrating wildfowl are likely to overwinter at WWT’s flagship reserve at Slimbridge in Gloucestershire.
Log on to WWT’s Migration Watch this Autumn and watch this season’s skies come alive.
