RSPB Snettisham

Norfolk > United Kingdom

Coastal lagoons in disused shingle quarries separated from the Wash. The Wash itself is a large area of tidal mudflats that attracts huge numbers of waterfowl.

Added* by Axel Kirby
Most recent update 6 November 2022

Description

The lagoons attract waterfowl but the mudflats are the main attraction, particularly on a rising tide, when waders are driven landwards and geese commute to feed inland.

In spring, Black-headed Gull and Avocet take up residence on the islands. Wading birds in their colourful breeding plumage pass through on their way to the Arctic. Barn Owl can been seen at dawn and dusk hunting over the saltmarsh.

In summer on the islands, Common Tern are at the height of their breeding activity. Later in the summer, flocks of Red Knot wheel in vast numbers at sunset.

Autumn sees thousands of thrushes and finches migrate overhead. Eurasian Wigeon and Brent Goose start to arrive back from breeding grounds, calling noisily to each other.

In winter, huge numbers of waterfowl gather on the lagoons and out in The Wash, while Peregrine Falcon and Hen Harrier actively hunt on the saltmarsh. Common Goldeneye also gather on the lagoons and begin displaying in preparation for the coming spring.

Details

Access

From the carpark, access is by foot along muddy footpaths to the coast, where the paths are drier. Snettisham has three wildlife observation hides (two are all-weather and wheelchair friendly), all offering views across the lagoons and one has dual aspect views across lagoons and The Wash.

Terrain and Habitat

Wetland , Scattered trees and bushes , Sea , Mud flats

Conditions

Flat , High water possible , Open landscape

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Yes

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Winter , Spring migration , Autumn migration

Route

Wide path , Narrow trail

Difficulty walking trail

Average walk

Accessible by

Foot

Birdwatching hide / platform

Yes

Extra info

It's worth checking the RSPB website (see the link below) for guided walks, particularly when winter high tides occur around dawn. At this time, large numbers of geese fly inland overhead.

Links