Two white swans preening themselves by the pond at London Wetlands centre in the Autumn, UK
London Wetland Centre brings the countryside to London and was recently voted the UK's Favourite Nature Reserve by the public in the Countryfile Magazine Awards 2012. Although close to the heart of the capital it is a haven of tranquility for both wildlife and people. We have created numerous different wildlife habitats such as lakes, pools and gardens that are home to birds, frogs and newts. There are scrapes for wading birds to feed on, reed beds where up to seven bitterns make their home each winter and grazing marshes and wildflower meadows. In the decade since the centre opened over 200 species of bird have been spotted, making it a bird watching paradise. It is not just wildlife enthusiasts and keen bird watchers that enjoy the beauty of our nature reserve. It’s a wonderful place for a relaxing walk through the scenic paths that meander among the lakes and meadows. Or to simply sit on one of the benches dotted around reserve and watch the ducks, swans, dragonflies and water voles. There are six hides, perfect for both watching wildlife and photography. If you are lucky – and patient – you can see reptiles, amphibians and numerous dragonflies and butterflies; not to mention our ever popular water voles. In spring you can hear the screeching croak of marsh frogs and summer is the ideal time to watch the aerial acrobatics of swifts and sand martins. At dusk you may see bats swooping across the water, hunting for insects. Our Berkeley Bat House was inspired by a Turner Prize winning artist. Stop by on a walk around the Sheltered Lagoon to learn more about the bats it was built for. Winter is one of the best times to visit our nature reserve because then some of the prettiest wild ducks, such as wigeon, teal and pintails arrive. You can read more about wildlife through the seasons here: Wildlife Guide Chris Packham, BBC Springwatch presenter, said, “I love it here at the London Wetland Centre. It’s one of my favourite places in the country.” Come
Size: 3400px × 2549px
Location: London Wetlands, UK
Photo credit: © Biblio Photography / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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