Shrug off those winter blues at RSPB Burton Mere Wetlands this spring

GORSE COVERT BURTON MERE WETLANDS

Now is the perfect time to discover one of the best bluebell woodlands in the region - at RSPB Burton Mere Wetlands, on the Dee Estuary. Each spring, the nature reserve’s Gorse Covert, an area of semi-natural ancient woodland, bursts into colour with a blanket of blue and this year, the bluebells have not disappointed.

Due to the mild winter, many of the flowers are already beginning to emerge and tease admirers with their colour, well before their usual May bloom.  Last year, hundreds of visitors to the nature reserve told RSPB staff of their delight at seeing such a pristine area of the iconic British flower.

Dan Trotman, Visitor Experience Manager at RSPB Dee Estuary reserves, said: “It’s one of my favourite times of the year, when the woodland floor gradually changes from its dull winter green to the vibrant blue hue. Over the past couple of years visitors have really started to notice the intensity of the bluebells; people come to the reserve purely to see the spectacle. The contrast of the deep blue against the greenery of the trees creates a lovely setting for a relaxing stroll. We’ve recently added two new benches so you can sit and enjoy the tranquility even longer.”

To celebrate this natural wonder, visitors are invited to join in a special ‘Bluebells and Birdsong’ guided walk to discover more about the bluebells as well as other interesting flowers and wildlife on the reserve.

Dan added: “On our event this year, visitors can not only enjoy a stroll into the heart of the bluebell woodland, there will also be the chance to venture up to Burton Point where there is another impressive stand of  these flowers, along with breathtaking panoramic views over Burton Mere Wetlands and across the estuary to the Welsh hills.”

“While Gorse Covert and Burton Point can be enjoyed independently by all visitors to the reserve, the guided walk is a great way to discover more about the wildlife that lives here. The nesting birds will be in fine voice, adding to the tranquil atmosphere, and you will be given tips on how to pick out the songs of different birds. It’s a great way to spend a morning.”

The ‘Bluebells and Birdsong’ guided walk will be held on Saturday 30 April from 10 am to noon.  The cost is £5 per person (£4 for RSPB members) and includes a hot drink in the reception hide. To book your place, phone 0151 353 8478 or email deeestuary@rspb.org.uk.

For more information on the reserve and its activities, check out the website www.rspb.org.uk/deeestuary