The 1200-acre expanse of Abberton Reservoir and its adjacent farmland is one of Europe's most renowned wetland sites. It is of international importance as a safe haven for wild duck, swans and other water birds, whether resident, passing through on migration or over-wintering. The reservoir is situated close to east coast migration routes and, with its surrounding envelope of pasture and tree plantations, is a welcome sight to tired birds.

Recent dry winters have caused water levels to fall temporarily and expose large expanses of mud. As a result great numbers of wading birds have flocked to the reservoir from the coast and from estuaries, confirming the value of the site to birds.

view from Layer De La Haye Causeway

Although only 9-acres, the reserve is surprisingly rich in wildlife. It was created in 1975 when a large pond was excavated close to the reservoir and a wide range of native tree and shrub species of value to wildlife were planted. Many have matured into fine specimen trees. Others have developed into valuable hedges and thickets that attract birds and insects and screen visitors on the nature trail, reducing disturbance to wildlife. A wide range of small birds nest here, particularly Warblers, Nightingales and finches and, in the tall clumps of gorse, Yellowhammers and Linnets.

The pockets of grassland provide open, sunlit sites ideal for many insects, including butterflies. In spring and summer you are likely to see small copper, wall brown, common blue, gatekeeper, small skipper and other common species.

The largest single feature is the pond. With a central nesting island, it attracts breeding Mute Swan, Canada Goose, Mallard, Moorhen and other waterfowl in spring. The birds like to graze the short grass and parade their chicks in front of the windows of the Centre, to the delight of visitors.

Barnacle Geese - February 2000

There are three bird hides within the reserve, two of which give views of a floating nesting raft for Common Terns. The Trust has built two further bird hides on the peninsular of farmland and grassland adjacent to the reserve, where Canada Geese and Wigeon graze in winter. In spring Yellow Wagtails, Corn Buntings and many other small birds nest in the young tree plantations. Butterflies and dragonflies are numerous among the tall thistles and grasses in summer.

Directions

Six miles south-west of Colchester on the B1026, a minor road linking Colchester and Maldon, just outside Layer-de-la-Haye. Watch out for brown and white 'Wildfowl Centre' signs. Centre, shop and nature reserve are open 9am-5pm every day except Mondays, Christmas and Boxing Days.

The Visitor Centre

An exciting venture shared by Essex Water Company, Colchester Borough Council and the Trust. Its role is to help the public to enjoy the wildfowl spectacle on the reservoir, which is a wetland of international importance. Exhibits and displays tell the seasonal story of the birds on the reservoir and in the reserve surrounding the centre. Panoramic windows give views of the reservoir and nearby pond, with its nesting birds. A telescope is provided that visitors may use to watch distant birds. A wide range of conservation goods is available in the shop, including binoculars, telescopes and field guides to bird identification. A drinks machine provides hot drinks - very welcome in winter. A nature trail links five hides. Facilities for disabled.

 Abberton details courtesy of Essex Wildlife Trust

 

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