Yorkshire
Nature Triangle
Discover East Yorkshire’s incredible wildlife
Your FREE GUIDE to the best wildlife spots in and around East Yorkshire
With events and activities all year round, what will you discover?
yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk
@VisitYNT
Welcome to
the Yorkshire Nature Triangle
Start your journey today...
2 | Yorkshire Nature Triangle
CONTENTS Explore the Triangle.....4 DISCOVER‌
Headland Coast............6 Humber Estuary...........8 Vale of York................10 Holderness.................12 Yorkshire Wolds.........14 NATURE RESERVES
Listings........................16 Seasonal calendar......30 Top tips.......................31
Share your photos and stories @VisitYNT yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 3
MATTHEW ROBERTS
The Yorkshire Nature Triangle is a unique destination in Britain, offering an almost unrivalled range of wildlife experiences and encounters from the heart of the Yorkshire Wolds to the imposing 400 feet tall chalk cliffs of the East Coast and the mighty Humber Estuary. Enjoy some of the best in British wildlife, from puffins, red kites, otters and whales to thousands of birds flocking together and stunning wildflowers – alongside a renowned, great value Yorkshire welcome.
1
2 2
1
1
1
3
1
4
Headland Coast 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
YWT Filey Dams p17 Filey Brigg p17 RSPB Bempton Cliffs p18 YWT Flamborough Cliffs p19 Flamborough Outer Headland p20 YWT Living Seas Centre p20 South Landing p20 Sewerby Hall and Gardens p21 Danes Dyke p21 10 Thornwick Pool p21
2 3
10 4
6 5 89 7
Humber Estuary 1 2 3 4 5 6
2
RSPB Blacktoft Sands p22 YWT Spurn p23 YWT Kilnsea Wetlands p24 YWT Hodgson’s Fields p24 YWT Paull Holme Strays p25 YWT Welwick Saltmarsh p25
Vale of York 1 2 3 4
YWT Wheldrake Ings p26 YWT Allerthorpe Common p26 YWT North Cave Wetlands p27 Humber Bridge Country Park p27
Holderness
1 Tophill Low p28 2 Hornsea Mere p29
5 6
Yorkshire Wolds 4
3 2
1 YWT Kiplingcotes p29 2 Millington Woods p29 yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 5
Discover the
Headland Coast Home to a quarter of a million seabirds in spring and a mecca for migrating birds in autumn, the coastline between Flamborough and Filey Brigg is deserving of its reputation as one of the best wildlife hotspots in the UK.
Take Part!
6 | Yorkshire Nature Triangle
MARTIN BATT
Events run thro the year a ughout t Bempton RSPB Cliffs and YWT Livin g Seas Centre.
SEABIRD CITY
THE BEST VIEW IN THE HOUSE
The clifftop footpath from Scarborough to Filey, and around the Flamborough Headland never fail to delight. Skylarks singing overhead in summer with the chance of porpoises and whales out to sea, waves crashing against the cliffs in winter – whatever the season, the coast always has something to offer.
Fl am borough
TOP 5 WILDLIFE EXPERIENCES
MIKE SNELLE
Between March and July the sheer chalk cliffs of the Flamborough Headland provide the backdrop for one of the greatest wildlife spectacles in the country. Puffins and gannets are the A-listers in a starstudded cast of thousands of seabirds that fill the cliffs with the unmistakable sights, smells and sounds of seabird city in full swing – a Puffin show you’ll never forget!
1
Sea parrots
Spot the nation’s favourite seabird, the puffin, amongst a staggering number of gannets, kittiwakes and other seabirds at RSPB Bempton Cliffs and Seabird Centre, and YWT Flamborough Cliffs.
2
Take to the waves
Get a different view of the amazing seabird colony on a boat trip. Try a Living Seas Safari aboard a traditional fishing cobble from YWT Flamborough Cliffs or an RSPB Puffin and Gannet cruise aboard the Yorkshire Belle from Bridlington.
3
Go rock pooling
Great fun at any time of year! Find out about our fascinating marine wildlife in the YWT Living Seas Centre, then join in with a guided Seashore Safari along South Landing to look for crabs, starfish and anemones.
4
Winging it
CAROLINE THOROGOOD
Scan hedgerows for visiting migrant birds including rarities such as yellow-browed warbler, wryneck and great grey shrike. Try Holmes Gut in YWT Flamborough Cliffs or Old Fall in Flamborough Outer Headland.
5
Look out to sea
Harbour porpoises, dolphins and even whales are regularly sighted from the Yorkshire coastline – Filey Brigg is a great vantage point. Whale watching boat trips are available in autumn from Whitby. yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 7
Discover the
Humber Estuary Every winter, vast numbers of wading birds form ‘mega flocks’ that fill the mudflats and saltmarshes of the Humber Estuary, whilst throughout the year secretive species like bitterns and bearded tits reside in the reedbeds.
CHRIS GRADY
ve… Kids wg ilablolo ard the
8 | Yorkshire Nature Triangle
Climbin d travelling giant 4x4 an d on the n sa across the See page s. ri fa Sa Spurn o 23 for m re.
Bearded tit
EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED
TOP 5 PLACES TO VISIT
YWT Spurn is the place to witness birds migrating during spring and autumn, and alongside large numbers of migrants there’s always the chance that something a little rarer from the continent will drop in.
You mustn’t miss...
1
YWT Spurn
Hoopoe
Bitterns, bearded tits, avocets and marsh harriers are the star species of this famous tidal reedbed reserve near Goole.
Wheatear
CH RIS GR ADY
2
RSPB Blacktoft Sands
MANDY WEST
Completely unlike anywhere else in Yorkshire, Spurn is one of the best bird watching locations in the UK. Enjoy stunning wader flocks in winter, spot spring and autumn migrants and explore the sand dune trails.
3
YWT Kilnsea Wetlands
Just up the road from YWT Spurn, this wetland is great for roosting waders in winter and breeding avocets, lapwing and redshank in summer.
4
AMY LEWIS
Got a little longer? TOP GUNS OF THE SKY
The thousands of wading birds that gather on the Humber Estuary between autumn and spring attract the attention of many of our charismatic birds of prey looking for meal: look out for marsh harriers, peregrines, buzzards, hen harriers, merlin, kestrels and short-eared owl.
YWT Paull Holme Strays
Watch the shimmering flocks of knot and golden plover moving in unison over the mudflats of the Humber Estuary at this spot 20 minutes’ east of Hull.
Peregrine
YWT Welwick Saltmarsh
Spend a winter’s afternoon watching raptors such as short-eared owl, merlin, peregrine, marsh harrier and hen harrier hunting along the Humber Estuary.
CHUCK JENSEN
5
S hort-eared ow l
yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 9
PAUL BUNYARD
Discover the
Vale of York The floodplains and relic heathland of the low-lying land west of the Yorkshire Wolds are complimented by one of the fastest growing man made nature reserves in the country.
A rctic vis itor s Hundreds of w
swans desce hooper nd Lower Derw on the ent Valley every winter – tr Wheldrake In y YWT gs fo excellent view r s.
10 | Yorkshire Nature Triangle
Whooper swans
SNAKE EYES
TOP 5 WILDLIFE SPOTS
The best spot for viewing adders within the Yorkshire Nature Triangle is at YWT Allerthorpe Common, not far from Pocklington. Excellent views are almost guaranteed on sunny spring mornings, but remember to respect these rare and secretive reptiles.*
Adder
1
Barn Owl
A breeding stronghold for this ghostly-looking hunter, head out at dawn or dusk to see barn owls quartering the land along the Lower Derwent Valley.
2
Whimbrel
JON HAWKINS
Whimbrels drop into YWT Wheldrake Ings each evening during early May to roost, a stopover on their long migration north to Scandinavia.
MONOCHROME ELEGANCE
WW W.E LLI OT
TN EEP.CO M
A vocet
ELL IOT T NE EP
DAMIAN WATERS DRUMIMAGES.CO.UK
Enjoy a fantastic day out at YWT North Cave Wetlands during spring and summer where you can see avocets raising their chicks. This former quarry has been carefully restored for wildlife and is also home to breeding ringed and little ringed plover, lapwing, oystercatcher and redshank.
L apwing
3
Floodplain Meadows
Look out for the raspberrylike heads of great burnet, fluffy clouds of meadowsweet and vivid yellow meadow vetchling which fill the floodplain meadows at YWT Wheldrake Ings in June.
4 5
Dressed to impress
Thousands of striking-looking ducks like pintail, wigeon, goldeneye and more drop in to YWT Wheldrake Ings every winter.
Dragonflies
Between May and September keep a look out for dragonflies and damselflies over the pools at YWT North Cave Wetlands. Brown and migrant hawkers, emperor dragonflies and black-tailed skimmer are amongst the species that can be spotted. *Adders are venomous but will only strike if provoked, maintain a safe distance for yourself and pets at all times.
yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 11
Discover
Holderness The cool, clear waters of the River Hull chalk streams are a haven for some of our most iconic riverside wildlife.
Top S pots at Tophill
JAMIE HALL
Check out gspot. h p to illlow.blo test la e th r co.uk fo sightings.
12 | Yorkshire Nature Triangle
Kingfisher
MARIE KALUS
WETLAND WONDERS
Otter
Tophill Low is a fantastic place for anyone ready to take the time to seek out some of our most sought after and secretive creatures. With a bit of luck otters, water voles, kingfishers and barn owls can be seen all year round. The two reservoirs that make up the heart of the reserve attract impressive numbers of overwintering waterfowl – smew, scaup, and goosander can be seen alongside tufted ducks, wigeon and tens of thousands of roosting gulls.
Bitter n
YORKSHIRE’S LARGEST FRESHWATER LAKE
Chal k stream
DAVID MARTIN
Alongside the seaside resort of Hornsea, Hornsea Mere is a popular site for birdwatchers which attracts impressive numbers of little gulls in autumn before large numbers of waterfowl and wading birds appear to spend the winter. Bitterns and marsh harriers often put in an appearance too.
CRYSTAL CLEAR
JON TRAILL
Enjoy the delightful tranquillity of some of the finest chalk streams in the country, and head to Wansford village, east of Driffield, where the public footpath leads you alongside the crystal clear waters of the River Hull. Look out for signs of otter as you walk and peer through the ripples for trout and lamprey.
yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 13
Discover the
Yorkshire Wolds Red kites soar high over rolling hills and secluded villages of this charming part of Yorkshire.
Brushuwreith nat obert
ELLIOTT NEEP WWW.ELLIOTTNEEP.COM
Don’t miss R e lif Fuller’s Wild in ry le al G Art Thixendale
14 | Yorkshire Nature Triangle
Bo xi ng brow n hares
BEST FOOT FORWARD
Some of the best wildlife encounters are to be had on foot, so relish the chance to pull on your boots and enjoy the tranquil walks that the Yorkshire Wolds have to offer, many incorporating sections of the 79 mile Yorkshire Wolds Way National Trail that runs from Hessle to Filey, the 50 mile Minster Way which connects Beverley to York or the 40 mile circular Chalkland Way.
Wolds walkers
TOP 5 WALKS ON THE WOLDS
1
Millington Woods See brilliant bluebells in spring and spectacular bellflower in summer on the two mile circular walk around this woodland nature reserve.
2
Hudson Way In June, clouds of butterflies flit from orchid to orchid at YWT Kiplingcotes Chalk Pit which lies alongside the Hudson Way, a ten mile level footpath running between Market Weighton and Beverley.
3 4
Nunburnholme Wold Great views of red kites are almost guaranteed on this seven mile ramble, ideal for a crisp winter’s afternoon.
RED KITES
A true conservation success story, red kites are the most majestic of Yorkshire’s birds of prey. Following reintroductions at Harewood House in Leeds, red kites have now spread out and are frequently seen over the Yorkshire Wolds, with an established winter roost at Nunburnholme village near Pocklington.
Red kite
Thixendale Choose between an eight mile circular route through Kirby Underdale or an eight mile figure of eight loop through the deserted medieval village of Wharram Percy – in spring, look out for hares and singing skylarks as you go. Head to the nearby Robert Fuller Art Gallery for a full day out.
5
MARTIN BATT
Pocklington Canal Spot kingfishers on this easy two mile circular route walk, part of which follows the towpath alongside the Pocklington Canal. Find all walks on walkingtheriding. eastriding.gov.uk yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 15
Where to see wildlife NOT SURE WHERE TO BEGIN?
New to wildlife watching? Start with the Triangle Highlights – these places are typically staffed, have lots to see and are great for beginners and the more experienced alike.
LISTINGS KEY Visitor Centre Hides Parking Disabled access Entry fee Toilets Café/refreshments Stately Home No dogs Boat trips Birds Mammals Plants Butterflies/moths Dragonflies Amphibians Snakes/reptiles Marine life/rockpools
BILL RICHARDS
DON’T MISS OUT!
The change in season always brings a change in wildlife, so make sure you don’t miss out – a springtime visit to see the seabirds, an autumn visit to watch migration, a winter visit to see massive wader flocks – whatever the time of year, there’s always something to enjoy. 16 | Yorkshire Nature Triangle
A DAY IS NEVER ENOUGH
Make the most of the diverse array of wildlife on offer and stay a little longer to enjoy it all. East Yorkshire has a wide range of places to stay and eat to suit all budgets, and whether you choose a city break or rural vacation, you’ll never be far away from an incredible wildlife experience.
HEADLAND COAST
YWT FILEY DAMS
Fi ley Dams
Wharfedale, Off Muston Road, Filey, YO14 0DR www.ywt.org.uk/www.fbog.co.uk
IAN ROBINSON
The largest freshwater marsh in the area, this wetland nature reserve provides a calming contrast to wild ruggedness on the coast. There are two bird watching hides, with wheelchair access to Main Hide just a short distance from the reserve car park. Spring: Watch out for passage waders, tree sparrows, willow warblers; spot cuckoo flowers. Summer: Reed warblers in the reedbed; returning sandpipers and plovers; dragonflies such as broad-bodied chaser, black-tailed skimmer and ruddy darter whizzing above the pools. Autumn: Greenshank, little stint, curlew sandpiper and ruff pause to feed up on their way south (as well as more common waders); swallows, sand martins and house martins in pre-migration gatherings, sometimes under watchful eye of their nemesis the hobby.
MATT BERRY
Four-spotted chaser FILEY BRIGG
North Cliff, Filey, YO14 9ET
Winter: See wigeon and teal flocks, sparrowhawks hunting and thrushes and finches over the feeding tables.
Comm on seal
This long, low headland juts out into the North Sea, sheltering Filey Bay and providing good bird-watching and sea-watching opportunities all year round. Park at the neighbouring Filey Brigg Country Park. Don’t miss the five miles of golden sands in Filey Bay itself. Pay & Display car park. Spring and Summer: See seabirds passing by; spot common seals lazing on the beach; watch for spring migrants; explore the deep rock pools around the Brigg.
AUSTIN MORLEY
Autumn: Offshore, migrating seabirds including skuas and shearwaters can be seen; look out for falls of migrating warblers, finches and thrushes in the Country Park. Winter: Seek out visiting snow bunting; look on the rocks at the end of the Brigg for purple sandpipers and turnstones; see eider ducks swimming in the water’s edge. yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 17
Bempto n Cliffs
Cliff Lane, Bempton, YO15 1JF www.rspb.org.uk/bemptoncliffs 01262 422212
This splendid cliff top coastal reserve is the most accessible place to view seabirds from the mainland in northern Europe. Drop into the Seabird Centre for close up views of nesting seabirds on CCTV as well as refreshments and information throughout the year. Centre open 9.30am to 5pm Mar-Oct, 9.30am to 4pm Nov – Feb. Entry: adults £3.50, children £2, family £8.50, RSPB members free. MARK S
Spring: Breeding seabirds return, including gannet, puffin, guillemot, razorbill, fulmar, kittiwake, herring gull and shag; spot farmland birds such as skylark, linnet, meadow pipit, reed and corn buntings.
Gannets
OY LE
Summer: The seabird breeding season peaks in June with 250,000+ seabirds with eggs or chicks; spot tree sparrows, whitethroat, grasshopper and sedge warbler; carpets of red campion and orchids add colour to the clifftop.
KAT SANDERS
Winter: Short-eared owls spend the winter here; look out to sea for passing porpoises and grey seals; enjoy bracing clifftop walks and crashing waves below.
GEORGE ST
Autumn: See migrating flocks of thrushes and pink-footed geese overhead; spot migrant warblers, flycatchers and chats; Manx and sooty shearwater, arctic and great skua may be seen in strong North West winds.
Puffi n
It’s a must! RSPB Seabird Cruises www.rspb.org.uk/bemptoncliffs 01262 422212
RSPB
HEADLAND COAST
RSPB BEMPTON CLIFFS
18 | Yorkshire Nature Triangle
Great views of seabirds aboard the Yorkshire Belle pleasure cruiser with commentary and assistance from the RSPB team throughout. Choose between Puffin and Gannet Cruises (May – Jul) and Skua and Shearwater Cruises (Aug – Oct), both depart from Bridlington Harbour. See website for sailing times and booking information. Sailing subject to weather conditions. Adults £20, Children (16 and under) £10, (under 2) free. Group discounts available.
KIRSTY BROWN
Living Seas Safari boat trips www.ywt.org.uk Marvel at seabirds high on the chalk cliffs and head into a sea cave on this 45 minute to one hour trip aboard a traditional Yorkshire fishing boat. Trips leave North Landing bay and run regularly at weekends between April and July, see website for sailing times. Sailings subject to weather conditions, seats 20 people. Book via the website. Adults £8, children (aged 16 and under) £4. You will need to visit the YWT Living Seas Centre at South Landing a minimum of 30 minutes to collect your ticket before the trip.
STEVE RACE
YWT FLAMBOROUGH CLIFFS North Marine Road, Flamborough, YO15 1BJ www.ywt.org.uk
This coastal reserve has cliff top walkways with excellent vantage points to spot puffins and other seabirds, and drops down to superb rockpools and sea caves during low tides at North Landing and Thornwick Bay. Pay & Display car park. Spring: Thousands of seabirds return to nest on the chalk cliffs, including puffin, kittiwake, guillemot, razorbill and fulmar.
MARTIN BATT
Razorbill
Summer: Spot puffins on the cliff face and seabird sitting on nests; walk amongst salt-loving plants like sea thrift and sea plantain, as well as pyramidal orchid and blue harebell; breeding yellowhammer and linnet can be found in hedgerows; butterflies are regularly seen. Autumn: Large numbers of migrant birds including rarer species such as yellow-browed warbler, wryneck and great grey shrike take refuge in the hedgerows and scrub, with ‘falls’ of species like goldcrests sometimes being measured in the dozens; offshore, Manx shearwater and skuas may be joined by little auks in stormy weather.
Fl am borough Cliffs
Winter: See fieldfare and redwing on the scrub in Holmes Gut; barn owl, stoat and weasel can often be seen hunting in daylight; gannets and fulmars return from January; dramatic waves are always guaranteed! yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 19
HEADLAND COAST
It’s a must!
South Sea Road. South Landing, Flamborough, YO15 1AE www.ywt.org.uk 01262 422103
Livi ng Seas Centre
ANT HURD
The YWT Living Seas Centre is dedicated to the North Sea’s amazing marine wildlife. Find out what to look out for on the coast along with the latest bird, whale and dolphin sightings, as well as the ever changing children’s arts and crafts activities. The event programme is the centre’s key attraction – join the expert marine team for guided walks and Seashore Safaris which run regularly at weekends and throughout school holidays – see website for details. Open between 10am and 5pm most weekends and school holidays (check website for dates or call in advance). No entry fee. Refreshments available. Pay & Display car park.
Rock pooli ng
FLAMBOROUGH OUTER HEADLAND Lighthouse Road, Flamborough, YO15 1AR www.eastriding.gov.uk
This arable and coastal nature reserve is particularly noted for the bird migration hotspot of Old Fall Plantation – try scanning with binoculars in spring and autumn for the chance of finding yellow-browed warbler, wryneck or great grey shrike. The circular walkway takes you past the lighthouse (guided tours available) and along the coastal footpath offering amazing views out to sea.
Grey seal
MARTIN BATT
HEADLAND COAST
YWT LIVING SEAS CENTRE
SOUTH LANDING
South Sea Road. South Landing, Flamborough, YO15 1AE www.eastriding.gov.uk
This woodland and coastal nature reserve is just 5 minutes’ walk from the YWT Living Seas Centre. Low tide reveals a host of rock pools perfect for exploring, while the more adventurous may take the steps up to the clifftops, which afford beautiful views south and a great vantage point for marine life like porpoises and seals. A woodland nature trail then snakes inland back towards the Living Seas Centre taking in a wildflower meadow too.
YWT
RICH ANDREWS
Wr yneck
20 | Yorkshire Nature Triangle
Set in a dramatic cliff top position, this stately home has spectacular south facing views over Bridlington Bay and is surrounded by 50 acres of stunning parkland, including impressive woodland trails. In front of the hall, the cliff top path gives access to Sewerby Steps and pebbly beach with good rock pool and visiting wading birds such as turnstone and oystercatcher. Estate, clock tower cafe and zoo are open all year round. House open between Apr-Sep (admission charges apply).
This is the most extensive area of woodland on the Flamborough Headland, Danes Dyke attracts resident breeding and overwintering birds, as well as being a good place to spot bats on a warm summer evening. The beach between Danes Dyke and Sewerby Steps has some good rock pools. Despite its name, the dyke is prehistoric in origin. Bronze Age arrowheads were found at the site when it was excavated in 1879. The site is named after the ancient ditch and bank earthwork which runs through the reserve and across the Flamborough headland itself. Pay & Display car park.
Se werby Hall
THORNWICK POOL
North Marine Road, Flamborough, YO15 1AU
Danes Dyke
JACKIE BROOKSHAW
Sewerby, Bridlington, YO15 1AA www.eastriding.gov.uk
SEWERBY HALL
Church Lane, Sewerby, Bridlington, YO15 1EA www.sewerbyhall.co.uk 01262 673769
HEADLAND COAST
SEWERBY HALL AND GARDENS DANES DYKE
Yellow wagtai l
RICHARD BOWLER
This relatively small wetland has two bird watching hides overlooking a pool which attracts a range of waders, as well as smaller birds such as white and yellow wagtails which come to feed and drink on the pool edge. Late summer and autumn sees a rise in the number of birds on the reserve, such as green and wood sandpipers in late July, followed by dunlin and other waders. Please respect the residents of Thornwick & Sea Farm Holiday Centre and drive slowly on site. yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 21
Townsend Causeway, nr Ousefleet, DN14 8HR www.rspb.org.uk/blacktoftsands 01405 704665
Ko nik po ny
BILL HEATH
HUMBER ESTUARY
RSPB BLACKTOFT SANDS
The largest inland reedbed in the country, well-known for secretive species like bitterns, bearded tits and marsh harriers that live amongst the whispering reeds. From mid-June onwards, migrating waders make a stop on the lagoons giving impressive close up views. Some 270 bird species have been seen including 50 species of waders, with striking Konik ponies also present as grazing animals. Open daily 9am to 9pm (or dusk if earlier). The reception hide is open daily from 9am to 4pm from Apr-Sep and at weekends from 10am to 4pm from Oct-Mar. Entry: adults £4, under 16s £1, concessions £3, family £7. RSPB members free. MANDY WEST
Spring: Hear booming bitterns; spot eight species of warblers; see avocets establishing nests; marvel at marsh harriers performing their courtship flights. Summer and Autumn: Watch marsh harriers hunting for food for their chicks; spot migrating waders - spotted redshank, greenshank, black-tailed godwit, ruff and dunlin can be seen on the lagoons; water rail and flocks of bearded tits ‘ping’ through the reedbed on still days. Winter: Watch marsh harriers, merlin and the occasional hen harrier gathering to roost; barn owls are often seen hunting in front of the hides; overwintering wildfowl can be seen on the lagoons.
M ars h harrier
Yorkshire Coast Nature Tours www.yorkshirecoastnature.co.uk 01723 865498
Wildlife tours/safaris and photography workshops led by local and professional experts Richard Baines and Steve Race. In East and North Yorkshire, North York Moors National Park, Whitby, Yorkshire Wolds, Scarborough, Flamborough Headland, Bempton RSPB, Filey, Spurn. Experience beautiful landscapes and nature. Wildlife encounters from whales to goshawks! Everyone is welcome on our trips, from beginners to the more experienced. We cater for small groups only.
22 | Yorkshire Nature Triangle
YORKSHIRE COAST NATURE
YORKSHIRE WIDE
It’s a must!
DAVID NICHOLS
LES BIN NS
S ix-spot burnet It’s a must!
YWT SPURN
Spurn Head, South of Kilnsea, HU12 0UH www.ywt.org.uk
The iconic three and a half mile long sandy peninsula of Spurn is renowned for its autumn migration spectacle when thousands of birds fly overhead, with a good chance of rarities dropping down to the sea buckthorn scrub. Spurn truly is a site for all seasons, and no two days are the same. Visitors (sorry, no dogs) may wander freely over much of the reserve, with the help of interpretation boards on the paths. A new visitor experience in the restored lighthouse is due to open in late 2015 and daily information on the latest sightings is available at the entrance. Please note there is no vehicular access past the car park at the reserve entrance; in the past there has been a road down to the Point but this is no longer the case. The Point is cut off from the mainland at high tide so it is important to check tide times carefully if you are planning to walk or cycle the 3.5 miles down to the Point - tide times can be found on the Trust’s website. Parking at the reserve entrance (£3 m ot h per car, free for YWT members).
Spurn Safari
Spring: See returning sand martin, swallow, wheatear, and black redstart; an early morning or evening visit may provide sightings of roe deer and barn owl.
Climb aboard a giant 4x4 for a safari over the sand dunes, enjoying spectacular views and spotting the incredible wildlife of Spurn. This two hour round trip down to the Point and back includes a full commentary, a guided walk at the Point itself and (once the restorations have been completed in late summer 2015) a tour up the lighthouse. Special themed safaris also run throughout the year. £10 per person. Booking is essential, see website for details.
Summer: Hear whitethroats singing from the bushes; spot ringed plover and little tern on the sand and shingle; wading birds in summer plumage return to the mudflats; butterflies are joined by day-flying moths such as cinnabars, burnet moths and occasionally hummingbird hawk-moths among the dunes and grassland; dragonflies, including the UK’s largest, the emperor, can often be seen.
www.ywt.org.uk 01964 650533
ANDY MASON
Autumn: Watch the spectacle of autumn migration in action, with migrant willow warblers, chiffchaffs, whitethroats, lesser whitethroats, reed warblers, goldcrests, stonechats, wheatears, redstarts and more en route to the winter haunts; offshore, Manx and sooty shearwaters, Arctic and great skuas can be seen, and humpback whales have even been spotted; watch for keen throngs of birdwatchers for a chance to encounter a real rarity blown off course. Winter: Spot whirling flocks of knot chased by peregrine falcons and merlin; hen harrier may drift by as they venture out from their winter feeding areas on the salt marshes of the Humber; enjoy bracing walks and wide open skies. yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 23
HUMBER ESTUARY
Spur n Point
HUMBER ESTUARY
YWT KILNSEA WETLANDS Easington Road, Kilnsea, HU12 0UD www.ywt.org.uk
Little egret
MARTIN BATT
If you’re visiting YWT Spurn then YWT Kilnsea Wetlands is a natural partner – they are just 5 minutes’ drive apart. This nature reserve was created in 2011 to compensate for loss of habitat on the eroding Holderness coastline and is already attracting roosting and breeding waders. A good tip is to visit just before high tide on a winter’s day when you will see waders flying overhead and dropping down onto the reserve to roost. Don’t forget to look out over the North Sea where you may see harbour porpoise and grey seals.
Wigeon
Spring and summer: See breeding avocets and oystercatchers; little egrets are a common summer sight; July starts to see returning migrant waders; look towards the North Sea on a calm day and you may see harbour porpoises, grey or common seals.
Roe deer
MIKE RICHARDSON
Autumn and winter: Redshank, greenshank, spotted redshank, dunlin, knot and ruff can all be seen on the site at high tide; good views of wigeon, teal, mallard and brent geese which overwinter on the reserve; peregrine, merlin, barn owl and short-eared owl are regularly seen.
YWT HODGSON’S FIELDS Near Skeffling, Easington, Hull, HU12 0UR www.ywt.org.uk
If you’re looking to spend a little more time around YWT Spurn then visit this rough grassland reserve for flowers, butterflies and farmland birds. The pathways may be muddy in wet weather.
ELLIOTT NEEP WWW.ELLIOTTNEEP.COM
Summer: During June and July look for southern and northern marsh orchids, as well as butterflies and dragonflies; farmland birds such as linnet, yellowhammer and tree sparrow are commonly seen; at dusk bats feed along the scrub patches and hedgerows. Watch for roe deer bounding over the fields. Autumn and winter: Whimbrel drop into the site on their autumn migration; barn owls and kestrels can be seen hunting. 24 | Yorkshire Nature Triangle
HUMBER ESTUARY
YWT PAULL HOLME STRAYS
Knot
Thorngumbald Road, Hull, HU12 8AX www.ywt.org.uk
MATT THOMAS
YWT Paull Holme Strays is at is best during the winter months, when thousands of waders descend on the mudflats and saltmarshes to feed and roost. These large gatherings attract aerial predators such as peregrine and merlin, and many an hour can be passed watching the swirling flocks of knot and golden plover. The best views are to be had just before high tide. Summer is a quieter time, but still offers some delightful wildlife encounters. The paths can become muddy in winter at this exposed site. Spring and summer: Look for swallows, sand and house martins, yellow wagtails and skylarks; spot dragonflies, damselflies and butterflies in freshwater areas surrounding the site.
Winter: Thousands of wading birds use the site to feed and roost, including knot, golden plover, black and bar-tailed godwits, redshank, dunlin, lapwing and curlew; peregrine and merlin can be seen hunting; spot barnacle and brent geese on the mud flats.
ELLIOTT NEEP WWW.ELLIOTTNEEP.COM
Autumn: Waders start arriving; impressive flocks of golden plovers are seen during October and November.
Comm on bl ue damselfly YWT WELWICK SALTMARSH
ELLIOTT NEEP WWW.ELLIOTTNEEP.COM
Humber Side Lane, Welwick, Patrington, Hull, HU12 0UX www.ywt.org.uk
Short-eared owl
It’s worth making time to spend a winter’s afternoon looking for birds of prey at this large saltmarsh on the Humber Estuary. Short-eared owl, barn owl, merlin, peregrine, marsh harrier, hen harrier and kestrel are all regularly seen, whilst hundreds of curlews feed on the edge of the saltmarsh; grey plover, knot and dunlin feed on the mudflat. Viewing is restricted to a path along the north of the site so binoculars are a must. Please don’t walk across the saltmarsh itself as this is dangerous and will disturb the wildlife. yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 25
Wheldrake Ings
Ings Lane, off Church Lane, Wheldrake YO19 6AS www.ywt.org.uk
KIRSTY BROWN
Just 20 minutes from York, Wheldrake Ings is internationally important for its rich summer hay meadows full of flowers and large winter gatherings of ducks, with numerous viewing hides affording wonderful vistas across the open water. Parking space is limited and the ground is often soft. There are four viewing hides - visitors are asked to keep to the marked footpaths. Spring and summer: Spot migrating whimbrel in May; listen to the calls of breeding redshank, curlew and ‘drumming’ snipe in spring; Mid to late June sees the meadows at their very best, with the ‘fluffy’ white flowers of meadowsweet, the beautiful round burgundy heads of great burnet and the vivid yellow of meadow vetchling scrambling up the surrounding plants. In July, the lush meadows are cut for hay. Within a few weeks the area starts to ‘green up’ once again and livestock are then turned out to graze until autumn. The water’s edge and ditches are abuzz with dragonflies and warblers provide another soundtrack. Autumn and winter: Spot thousands of waders and wildfowl on the flooded plains, including whooper swans from the arctic, wigeon, teal, shoveler, goldeneye and the exquisite pintail; spot flocks of lapwing in the skies; with a bit of luck otters can be seen in the water’s edge.
Pi ntai l YWT ALLERTHORPE COMMON Allerthorpe, Pocklington, YO42 4RU www.ywt.org.uk
This lowland heath has a surprising range of habitats and is known for its healthy adder population. Combine with a visit to YWT Wheldrake Ings for a full day out. Spring: See adders basking in the morning sun between February and April, spot woodlark, common frog, willow warbler and yellowhammer in spring.
JO MEAYS
Summer: Spot dragonflies and damselflies including broad-bodied chaser and blue-tailed damselfly; in August see purple clumps of ling heather.
Comm on frog 26 | Yorkshire Nature Triangle
Autumn/winter: Look out for woodcock, tit flocks, siskin, lesser redpoll, winter jay, coal tit and treecreeper in the woodland.
CHRIS GRADY
VALE OF YORK
YWT WHELDRAKE INGS
VALE OF YORK
YWT NORTH CAVE WETLANDS
Just half an hour from Hull, this rapidly growing wetland already has big reputation for some impressive wildlife and plenty of great ways to enjoy it. The patchwork of habitats is key to North Cave’s popularity with nature and visitors alike with deep lakes, wet grassland, gravel islands, reedbed and hedgerows all to be discovered. Four bird hides including an accessible straw bale hide, offer excellent views across the reserve and a brand new viewing and picnic area (also accessible) offers great views across the main pools and feeding station. Hot food and drinks are available at the mobile Wild Bird Cafe at the reserve entrance. Spring: See breeding avocet, common tern, little ringed plover, lapwing and redshank; hear reed and sedge warblers. Summer: Spot dragonflies including the four spotted chaser and the often inquisitive southern hawker; hobbies may swoop in for a quick meal; watch wader chicks finding their feet on the island and wetland fringes.
A vocet
NEIL ALDRIDGE
Dryham Lane, North Cave HU15 2LY www.ywt.org.uk
Brow n argus
Autumn: Dropping water levels prove attractive for passage migrant wading birds like the little stint and the chance of rarer species.
AMY LEWIS
Winter: See goldeneye, pochard, shoveler, gadwall and teal gathering on the islands alongside lapwings, redshank and occasional visitors like ruff; barn owl, red kite and peregrine often pay a visit too, as do marsh harriers; hedges and crops support finches and buntings, and the feeding station is always busy.
HUMBER BRIDGE COUNTRY PARK
MATT BERRY
Ferriby Road, Hessle, Hull, HU13 0HB www.eastriding.gov.uk
Comma butterfly
A great place to start your journey, pop into the Tourist Information Centre (open daily, check website for times) for local knowledge and advice from the friendly staff, then stretch your legs on one of the various trails that wind around the ash woodland, grassland, bird feeding station and open pools. Head down to the foreshore for impressive views of the Humber Bridge spanning the Humber Estuary. yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 27
Watton Carrs, Driffield, YO25 9RH www.tophilllow.blogspot.co.uk 01377 270690
Spring: See the return of little-ringed plovers in late March, followed by thousands of house and sand martins, swallows and swifts; regular migrants include osprey, greenshank, grebes, little gull and terns; see grass snakes sunning themselves on warm mornings.
Water vole
TOM MARSHALL
Two large Yorkshire Water reservoirs surrounded by planted woodland and meadow make up this nature reserve which lies alongside the River Hull. Winter sees the waters packed with wildfowl including real treats like the striking smew from northern Europe, while a patchwork of marshes, ponds, woodland and grassland play host to kingfishers, barn owls and sightings of the elusive otter. For the keen-eyed, grass snakes make a home here along with Ratty the water vole. Open daily 9am – 6pm. Entry adults £3.30, concessions £1.50, under 5’s go free.
Barn owl
Autumn: The wading bird passage continues, and late summer and early autumn are the best time to spot young kingfishers at the North Marsh; ospreys again stop on migration and the winter gull roost starts to build up each afternoon with up to 40,000 black-headed and common gull, great black backed gulls and occasional Mediterranean gulls; on the woodland floor up to 280 fungi species can be found. Winter: Harsher weather brings occasional Arctic species to mix with the gull roost, including glaucous and Iceland gulls, with wintering peregrine falcons taking the chance to grab a meal; spot wintering smew, along with thousands more wigeon, teal, tufted duck and gadwall; see brambling on the bird feeders; look for bittern and water rail stalking the reed beds. 28 | Yorkshire Nature Triangle
GARY COX
Summer: Spot common terns breeding on the marshes, along with black headed gull, shoveler, pintail and little ringed plover; barn owls raise their chicks; water voles are active on pools, with otters occasionally glimpsed too; see bee, common spotted and marsh orchids in early June, followed by carpets of fleabane in August, attracting marbled white and brown argus butterflies; returning wading birds in late summer include black-tailed godwit, green sandpiper and occasionally rarer species.
Grass snake
JAMIE HALL
HOLDERNESS
TOPHILL LOW
HORNSEA MERE
HOLDERNESS
Goldeneye
Wassand Hall, Seaton, Hornsea, HU11 5RJ www.wassand.co.uk
Yorkshire’s largest freshwater lake, this stunning site offers much for the bird watcher and those simply seeking a quiet stroll away from the bustle of nearby Hornsea. The delightful woodland walk at Wassand should bring butterflies and plenty of birdsong in summer, whilst the mere itself has a renowned reputation as a crucial stopoff for birds and as a valuable winter refuge, complimented by a brand new viewing hide. Day tickets to the woods and hide are £2.50 available from East Lodge, Wassand Estate main entrance. Spring/Summer: Look overhead for migrating ospreys, listen for reed and sedge warblers and keep an eye for grass snakes on the woodland walk. GARY FAULKNER
Autumn/Winter: Excellent numbers of little gull in autumn; large gatherings of waterfowl including pink footed geese, goldeneye, whooper swan and Slavonian grebe along with regular sea ducks and divers.
MILLINGTON WOODS
This chalk grassland turns into a riot of colour during summer when butterflies flit between colourful native wildflowers. Situated alongside the Hudson Way footpath, this is a great location for a June walk.
Perfect for a woodland stroll whatever the season, this is the most botanically rich woodland in East Yorkshire. Head to neighbouring Millington Dale for wide open skies and good chance of seeing red kites overhead.
Summer: See an amazing show of flowering plants including pyramidal and common spotted orchids in late June and early July; on a warm day you will also see marbled whites and other butterflies typical of chalky soils; there is also the possibility of red kites and buzzards overhead.
Spring and summer: Bluebells and wild garlic fill the reserve in May. During summer, look out for the stunning giant bellflowers (which can grow up to six feet tall) towering about flower filled verges.
Kiplingcotes, Market Weighton, YO43 3NA www.ywt.org.uk
Millington, Pocklington, East Riding of Yorkshire, YO42 1TZ www.eastriding.gov.uk
ELLIOTT NEEP WWW.ELLIOTTNEEP.COM
Buzzard
AMY LEWIS
YORKSHIRE WOLDS
YWT KIPLINGCOTES
Bl uebells yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 29
Seasonal wildlife calendar Wildlife
Top Tip
Adder
Visit heaths like Allerthorpe Common early to watch adders basking in the morning sun
Avocet
Spot chicks at YWT North Cave Wetlands and RSPB Blacktoft Sands
Bittern
Listen for the unmistakeable boom in spring at RSPB Blacktoft Sands
Barn owl
Barn owls have been spotted all over East Yorkshire; keep an eye out at dawn and dusk
Ducks
Male wigeon, pintail, shovelor and teal are at their finest in winter
Gannet
Check out the largest mainland colony at RSPB Bempton Cliffs
Grey seal
Keep an eye on the sea whenever you’re along the coast
Harbour porpoise
Pick a calm day and look out for the small triangular fin breaking the water’s surface
Otter
These elusive creatures aren’t easy to spot but you have a good chance at Tophill Low
Puffin
Between April and mid July look out for these colourful birds at YWT Flamborough Cliffs and RSPB Bempton Cliffs
Red kite
Keep your eyes to the skies whilst in the Yorkshire Wolds
Marsh harrier
Watch these mighty birds come into roost in the late afternoon at RSPB Blacktoft Sands
Marsh orchid
Walk along the clifftop path of Flamborough Headland during June
Whales
It’s possible to spot minke whales from the shore on a still day in summer. Whale watching boat trips are available in Whitby
Whimbrel
These birds stop off at YWT Wheldrake Ings in April
Waders
Visit mudflats along the Humber Estuary at high tide to watch swirling flocks of knot, dunlin and godwit
30 | Yorkshire Nature Triangle
Winter
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Top tips to get the most out of your visit BEAR IN MIND THE SEASON!
USEFUL CONTACTS AND LOCAL INFORMATION YWT Living Seas Centre 01262 422103 @YWTLivingSeas YWTLivingSeas
GET THE LATEST SIGHTINGS BEFORE YOU GO
RSPB Bempton Cliffs and Seabird Centre 01262 422212 @Bempton_Cliffs RSPBnorthyorksandeastriding
KEEPING THE KIDS ENTERTAINED
Wildlife watching can test some children’s patience, so best to plan ahead to avoid upsets later in the day. Look out for reserves with visitor centres and/or events programmes. Yorkshire Wolds Tracker Packs containing loads of activities can be hired from Tourist Information Centres, whilst free downloadable activities are available from Yorkshire Wildlife Trust and RSPB’s website.
Tophill Low 01377 270690 @tophillow Spurn Bird Observatory spurnbirdobservatory.co.uk @spurnbirdobs Flamborough Bird Observatory fbo.org.uk @FlamboroughBird Filey Bird Observatory fbog.co.uk
ISS
Wear sensible footwear, take a raincoat and don’t forget that it might be blazing hot in summer! Check the symbols carefully to determine what facilities are available before you go. Check the website for more detailed information.
North Cave Wetlands @NorthCaveWet
JO NATH AN BL
DON’T FORGET ABOUT THE GREAT BRITISH WEATHER
RSPB Blacktoft Sands 01405 704665 RSPBnorthyorksandeastriding
ON
Check out online blogs, facebook and twitter for the latest news – the best sources of up to date sightings information are listed on the right.
CA RO L WO OT
The calendar opposite will give you a better idea of when you are most likely to see some of the Triangle’s more popular species.
Yellow wagtail
Merli n yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 31
yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk Coastal Communities munities Fund
AVOCET - ERNIE JANES/NATUREPL.COM. BOAT - KIRSTEN CARTER. KINGFISHER - JOHN HAWKINS. OTTER - ELLIOTT NEEP WWW.ELLIOTTNEEP.COM
Eastern Yorkshire has so many incredible wildlife encounters to offer first time visitors and residents alike. Did you know you can see puffins on the coast, or red kites on the Yorkshire Wolds, or that 20,000 swallows were seen on a single day alone at Spurn? This handy guide will help you find your very own unforgettable wildlife encounters in the Yorkshire Nature Triangle.