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Description
Although relatively small, the clever routing of the paths makes Gazen Salts Nature Reserve seem larger. The wooded areas are good for many species including Eurasian Jay, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Eurasian Green Woodpecker, Magpie, throughout the year, and during the spring and summer months, migratory species such as Blackcap, Common Chiffchaff, and Garden Warbler to name a few. The winter months can bring in Redwing, Fieldfare, and Goldcrest.
The ponds and ditches attract Eurasian Moorhen, Mallard, Grey Heron, Tufted Duck, Common Pochard and Northern Shoveler.
The closeness of the reserve to the town make it an easy visit, the well signed paths meander around the various habitats. Although separated from the river Stour by a fence, a small viewing platform and seat provide a good spot to view the larger area where waders might be on the mud banks or a Common Kingfisher flash by.
Details
Access
Gazen Salts Nature Reserve is located on the northern edge of the small historic town of Sandwich. It can easily be reached from the railway station or bus stops. The main road in from the Canterbury direction (A257 becoming Strand Street) passes the reserve and there is on-street parking for free immediately outside the reserve although this is popular parking spot. There are numerous time restricted or pay and display parking places around the town.
There are no facilities within the reserve but the town centre is only 8 minutes walk away. There are quite a few benches to sit and relax, and bird feeding station which attracts many of the species.
Terrain and Habitat
Forest , Wetland , Grassland , River , Reedbeds , PondConditions
Flat , High water possibleCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
NoGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Spring , Spring migration , Autumn migration , WinterRoute
Wide pathDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
FootBirdwatching hide / platform
YesExtra info
The route marked on the map is a guide only as the paths do not show up on the map, they are well marked and obvious on site.
Some species listed will be seen overhead or viewed from the site - such as Western Marsh Harrier - which has been seen in the area beyond the river outside the reserve.