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RSPB Rye Meads nature reserve

RSPB Rye Meads nature reserve

For a great family trip, visit this delightful wetland reserve in The Lea Valley, beside the River Lee. Whether you are a serious birder, an amateur nature fan or someone looking for a pleasant walk in the countryside - you will find something to enjoy here. There are wheelchair-friendly trails, and 10 hides (come just to see the amazing murals!) look out over the reedbeds, wet meadows, open water and artificial sandbanks, which are a great place to spot the blue flash of a kingfisher. Common terns nest on specially-created rafts during the summer, and these days you're likely to hear the explosive song of the Cetti's warbler, a recent arrival here, or spot the kestrels sitting on their eggs high up on the electricity pylons. If it is wildlife really close you are after, then butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies put on quite a show. Also, look out for other wildlife such as foxes, muntjac, water voles, grass snakes, rabbits and even otters! In winter, you can often see snipe, green sandpipers, shovelers, gadwalls and tufted ducks – in fact, there's always something to entertain you here. We have a really welcoming visitor centre, where you can watch the bird feeding area for close-up views of garden birds, or see our CCTV spy cameras keeping a close eye on our resident kingfishers, tern rafts and lagoons. Families can borrow Explorer Backpacks or hire binoculars and children can take part in our i-spy quizzes for hours of fun learning about birds, wildlife and the environment. We have a busy events programme offering something for everyone, and are a teaching reserve - welcoming visits from schools or other groups. At just £2 to park your car, or free entry for RSPB members, it really is a great way to spend a day. We are just one of the many RSPB reserves across the country and we strive to protect natural habitats for wildlife and people alike. If you'd like to support us in doing this, please ask how at reception when you visit. Our friendly team look forward to welcoming you soon! For more details see the RSPB webpage: http://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/r/ryemeads/ Check out our blog for the latest updates: http://www.rspb.org.uk/community/placestovisit/ryemeads/default.aspx And follow us on twitter!: https://twitter.com/RSPBRyeMeads