Stars arriving for WWT Martin Mere's Spectacular Seasonal Show

Headlining a spectacular season of awe-inspiring nature not to be missed, pink-footed geese are arriving at WWT Martin Mere in their thousands to the delight of locals and bird enthusiasts from far and wide.

For those who want to learn more about birds or are interested in wildlife photography, WWT Martin Mere is the place to be this autumn, with visitors able to experience the exhilarating spectacle of migration through a calendar of events.

From dawn flights, late night openings and a festival to come in October there are many activities planned where visitors can see the pink-foots, with the first dawn flight event on October 5th.  The build-up to the big ‘show’ is just as exciting with more of the WWT reserve’s special guests arriving from Iceland by the day for visitors to watch. 

Louise Greenwood, Reserve Manager at WWT Martin Mere, said: “The first flocks started arriving late August and we’re always so thrilled to see them. The numbers have started increasing into the thousands as the weeks go by and it’s looking like we’re in for quite a spectacle.”

Not only will visitors have unforgettable moments viewing rarely seen wildlife up close this autumn, but as mother nature takes it course, they can enjoy the golden hues of nature, while discovering fabulous fungi, berries and fruits as they venture on to the wetland nature reserve.

Martin Mere Wetland Centre is the home to many types of mushrooms, including the fly agaric, which looks as though it has come straight out of a fairytale book.  There’s shabby ink caps to be spotted from the Raines Observatory and an abundance of pointed caps, giant domes and miniature clusters around the reserve.

Nature lovers are invited to take an immersive journey along the Reedbed Walk.  The secluded spot - home to warblers, water rails, bitterns, bearded tits and many more creatures - also offers the chance for a rare sighting of roe deer and stoat for patient viewers.

The reserve has also seen another star species arrival, the whooper swan, making the annual migration from Iceland. Nine were spotted on the mere at the end of September, with hundreds more expected over the next few months.

Louise Greenwood continues, “It’s impossible not to be uplifted by the seasonal beauty surrounding you at WWT Martin Mere this time of year. Autumn is such an inspirational time to visit.  Away from the hustle and bustle of modern life, you’re truly transported from everyday worries.”