You’re sure to find something of interest in February on all our nature reserves. However, these are just a few of our favourites at this time of year:   

Scotland

Baron’s Haugh  
Located in Motherwell, this nature reserve is a great place for a bracing winter walk. Expect flocks of wintering wigeons and whooper swans. 

Lochwinnoch 
Close to Glasgow, this firm family favourite offers amazing views of wetland wildlife. Flocks of goldeneye and goosander spend winter here and if you’re lucky you may spot a swooping hen harrier or the electric blue flash of a kingfisher. 
 
Wales 

Newport Wetlands 

This reserve near the Severn Estuary offers winter walks around wetlands and reedbeds. In winter it’s a great spot to see wildfowl such as shoveler and shelduck and at dusk up to 50,000 starlings often give a spectacular display as they come in to roost in the reedbeds. For the best chance of seeing it get there an hour before dusk.  
 

Conwy

A terrific place for a family nature adventure on the North Wales coast. Starlings are again one of the highlights, come around an hour before dusk for the best chance to see their famous murmurations. But you can also spot siskins and lesser redpolls in the alder trees and goldeneye ducks joining the local wildfowl all the way from Russia.  

England 

Fairburn Ings 
Within striking distance of Leeds, this reserve of open water, wet grasslands and wet woodlands is a haven for wildfowl such as goldeneye, smew and goosander. Its family friendly trails take you off into the wild to blow away the cobwebs, but never fear, you’re never far from the café where you can grab yourself a warming cuppa.  
 
Rainham Marshes 

Not far from the hustle and bustle of London life, this haven for wildlife is a great place to spend a few hours letting nature work its magic. In winter marsh harriers, peregrines and short-eared owls can all be seen on the lookout for lunch. You could also spot golden plovers, little egrets and lapwings.  
 
Northern Ireland 

Belfast’s Window on Wildlife 
A mid-winter visit to this accessible site will introduce you to the wild birds of Belfast’s tidal lagoons. Look for tiny teals and wonderful wigeon among the flocks which turn up to feed – and then pick yourself up with some refreshments in the café.