RSPB Otmoor

Oxfordshire > United Kingdom

Otmoor is a low-lying area preserved from enclosure and development by local villagers and its marshy character. It's now a renowned RSPB nature reserve.

Added* by Axel Kirby
Most recent update 26 February 2023

Description

Otmoor is nearly 400ha of wet grassland, reedbed and hedgerows. The reserve hosts a wide variety of resident and migrant birds, plus other birds of passage. The greatest part consists of wet pasture, which floods seasonally, and some artificial scrapes which provide nesting and feeding grounds for waterbirds and waders and hunting grounds for raptors. There's also scrub for songbirds, etc.

Details

Access

The car park is adjacent to the reserve, where access is by foot along level public bridleways and reserve footpaths.

The postcode is OX3 9TD .

IMPORTANT NOTE: Otmoor RSPB Reserve is adjacent to a military firing range. Do not enter this area for any reason when red flags are showing - this indicates firing with lethal ammunition. Pay attention to any notices.

Terrain and Habitat

Wetland , Plain , Scattered trees and bushes , Grassland , Reedbeds

Conditions

Flat , Open landscape

Circular trail

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring

Route

Wide path

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot , Wheelchair

Birdwatching hide / platform

Yes

Extra info

There are no refreshment or toilet facilities on site - bring food and drink to support a full day's visit. Some footpaths are open and exposed, so dress appropriately and take sunscreen in bright weather.

Sadly, the reserve no longer sees European Turtle Dove , but Common Crane have become regular visitors.

The threat of major road development to the Otmoor basin appears to have been removed. The Oxford to Cambridge Expressway proposals had included an option to cross Otmoor but this has been excluded by the Government.

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