Yorkshire
Nature Triangle
Discover East Yorkshire’s incredible wildlife
Your guide to the best places to see wildlife 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 Wild Days Out............29 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.
WHITBY 10 MILES
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2 1 2
1
3 1 6 4
5
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
YWT Paull Holme Strays p22 YWT Kilnsea Wetlands p22 YWT Spurn p23 RSPB Blacktoft Sands p24 Humber Bridge Country Park p25 The Deep p9
Vale of York
2
1 YWT North Cave Wetlands p25 2 Lower Derwent Valley p26 3 Skipwith Common p26
Holderness
1 Tophill Low p27 2 Hornsea Mere p28
Yorkshire Wolds
1 2 3
1 YWT Kiplingcotes p28 2 Millington Woods p28 2 yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 5
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!
Events run thro the year a ughout t Bempton RSPB Cliffs and YWT Livin g Seas Centre.
See gannets at RSPB Bempton CLiffs 6 | Yorkshire Nature Triangle
MARTIN BATT
Discover the
SEABIRD CITY
WHATEVER THE SEASON...
ELLIOTT NEEP WWW.ELLIOTTNEEP.COM
The fun doesn’t stop at the end of summer - short eared owls spend the winter on the headland alongside resident barn owls and occasionally, secretive long eared owls too. Spring and autumn are also excellent times to visit to witness migration in full swing, including ‘falls’ of large numbers of birds after easterly winds. Try Holmes Gut in YWT Flamborough Cliffs, Old Fall in Flamborough Outer Headland and Filey Brigg.
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!
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Look out for this colourful character amongst a staggering number of gannets, kittiwakes and other seabirds at RSPB Bempton Cliffs and Seabird Centre or YWT Flamborough Cliffs.
2
Take to the waves
Get a closer view aboard a boat trip – try a Living Seas Safari aboard a traditional fishing cobble or an RSPB Puffin and Gannet Cruise aboard the Yorkshire Belle. Keep an eye peeled for inquisitive seals too!
3
Go rock pooling
Great fun at any time of year! Find out more about our fascinating marine wildlife at the YWT Living Seas Centre, then join in with a guided Seashore Safari to look for crabs, starfish and anemones.
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Photograph gannets
Yorkshire Coast Nature run diving gannet photography workshops which will help you get that perfect shot! Take a look at www.yorkshirecoastnature.co.uk for photography workshops, wildlife safaris and more.
5 Short-eared owl
Spot a puffin
Whale watching
Keep an eye peeled whenever you’re along the coast or, for a special treat, go whale watching with the Whitby Whale Watching Centre in August and September. Take a look at www.whitbywhalewatching.net.
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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
DownHlouamdber
8 | Yorkshire Nature Triangle
the free discover at N ure app to ces to la more great p e. watch wildlif
See bearded tits at RSPB Blacktoft Sands
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.
The Humber Wildlife Trail
1 2
RSPB Blacktoft Sands
Hoopoe
Bitterns, bearded tits, avocets and marsh harriers are the star species of this famous tidal reedbed reserve near Goole.
YWT Paull Holme Strays
Best in winter for shimmering flocks of knot and golden plover moving in unison over the mudflats of the Humber Estuary, this nature reserve is just a 20 minute drive east of Hull.
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AMY LEWIS
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Wheatear
Experience an incredible array of fish including spectacular sharks and rays as well as a colony of gentoo penguins at Hull’s award-winning aquarium. Perfect for a rainy day out, The Deep takes you on an exciting journey from shallow tropical lagoons to the depths of the ocean. Visit www.thedeep.co.uk to find out more.
YWT Kilnsea Wetlands
The Deep
THE DEEP
YWT Spurn
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.
S hort-eared ow l DELVE INTO THE DEEP
Just up the road from YWT Spurn, this wetland is great for roosting waders in winter and breeding avocets, lapwing and redshank in summer.
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CH RIS GR ADY
Inland from the Humber Estuary, but easily accessed from the A63, there is always something to see at this nature reserve, with breeding avocets and huge numbers of overwintering waterfowl amongst the highlights.
MANDY WEST
YWT North Cave Wetlands
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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
See whooper swans in the Lower Derwent Valley
SNAKE EYES
If you want to see reptiles in the wild then try Skipwith Common on a sunny day. You might see common lizards, grass snakes and adders basking in the sunshine, but remember to respect these secretive creatures.*
Adder
1
TOP 5 WILDLIFE 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.
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Wonderful Wildfowl
JON HAWKINS
Thousands of striking looking ducks like pintail, wigeon, goldeneye and more spend the winter along the Lower Derwent Valley.
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
Drumming snipe
Listen out for the sound of drumming snipe in spring along the Lower Derwent Valley, and watch out for lapwings and curlew.
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.
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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.co.uk lo tophill w.blo test e for th la sightings.
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See kingfishers at Tophill Low
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
JON TRAILL
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
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. The white flowers of water crowfoot are a beautiful sight in spring and, if you are lucky, throughout the year you might see otters, kingfishers and water voles. 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.
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See boxing brown hares in spring
WALKING AND CYCLING
As any rambler or cyclist will tell you, wildlife in the Yorkshire Wolds is best enjoyed on foot or on two wheels. Take your time – for walkers there are 79 miles of the Yorkshire Wolds Way, 50 miles of the Minster Way and 40 miles of the Chalkland Way to explore, whilst cyclists can take on the challenge of the 146 mile Yorkshire Wolds Cycle Way.
Cycle the Wolds
TOP 5 WALKS ON THE WOLDS
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Millington Woods See brilliant bluebells in spring and spectacular bellflowers in summer on the two mile circular walk around this woodland nature reserve.
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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.
SEEING RED
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 Take the eight mile 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.
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Pocklington Canal Spot kingfishers on this easy two mile circular route walk, part of which follows the towpath alongside the Pocklington Canal.
MARTIN BATT
USEFUL WEBSITES
walkingtheriding.eastriding.gov.uk cycleyorkshirewolds.com 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
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 spring 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 of Filey Brigg. 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: Spot reed warblers in the reedbed; returning sandpipers and plovers; look out for dragonflies such as broad-bodied chasers, black-tailed skimmers and ruddy darters whizzing above the pools. Autumn: Greenshanks, little stints, curlew sandpipers 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.
Winter: Seek out visiting snow buntings; look on the rocks at the end of the Brigg for purple sandpipers and turnstones; see eider ducks swimming in the water’s edge.
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.
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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. Admission charges apply, free for RSPB members. See website for prices. MARK S
Spring: Breeding seabirds return, including gannets, puffins, guillemots, razorbills, fulmars, kittiwakes, herring gulls and shags; spot farmland birds such as skylarks, linnets, meadow pipits, reed buntings 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, whitethroats, sedge warblers and blackcaps; 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 shearwaters, Arctic and great skuas 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, prices and booking information. Sailing subject to weather conditions.
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 September, see website for sailing times. Sailings subject to weather conditions, seats 20 people. Book via the website. 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
A natural partner to RSPB Bempton Cliffs, this coastal reserve has cliff top walkways with excellent vantage points to spot puffins and other seabirds, and 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 puffins, kittiwakes, guillemots, razorbills and fulmars.
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 yellowhammers and linnets 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 shearwaters and skuas may be joined by little auks in stormy weather.
Fl am borough Cliffs
Winter: See fieldfares and redwings on the scrub in Holmes Gut; barn owls, stoats and weasels 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
Right at the end of the headland, this is a great location to look out for whales, porpoises and passing seabirds, as well as being a hotspot for spring and autumn bird migration with birds like yellow-browed warbler, wryneck and great grey shrike seen most years. The lighthouse is open to the public on selected dates – see www.trinityhouse.co.uk for details.
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 turnstones and oystercatchers. Great for a rainy day, the 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
From YWT Flamborough Cliffs, follow the public footpath inland from Thornwick Bay towards Thornwick & Sea Farm Holiday Centre to find this small wetland with two bird watching hides. Yellow and white wagtails feed on the pool edge, whilst spring and autumn sees migrating waders attracted to the pool including green and wood sandpipers in July, followed by dunlin and other waders. yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 21
HUMBER ESTUARY
YWT KILNSEA WETLANDS Easington Road, Kilnsea, HU12 0UB www.ywt.org.uk
Little egret
MARTIN BATT
A natural partner to YWT Spurn (just 5 minutes’ drive away), this wetland attracts 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 to roost. 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 and grey or common seals.
Wigeon
Knot
MIKE RICHARDSON
Autumn and winter: Redshanks, greenshanks, spotted redshanks, 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; peregrines, merlins, barn owls and short-eared owls are regularly seen.
YWT PAULL HOLME STRAYS 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, best just before high tide.
ELLIOTT NEEP WWW.ELLIOTTNEEP.COM
Comm on bl ue damselfly
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. Autumn and winter: Waders start arriving; impressive flocks of golden plovers are seen during October and November. Thousands of wading birds use the site to feed and roost, including knot, golden plovers, black and bar-tailed godwits, redshanks, dunlin, lapwings and curlew; peregrines and merlins can be seen hunting; spot barnacle and brent geese on the mud flats.
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DAVID NICHOLS
LES BIN NS
It’s a must!
YWT SPURN
Spurn Head, South of Kilnsea, HU12 0UH www.ywt.org.uk
Explore the iconic three and a half mile peninsula of Spurn, renowned for its diverse and ever changing wildlife throughout the year. This natural landmark is a beacon for thousands of migrating birds during spring and autumn, whilst the mudflats of the Humber Estuary attract enormous flocks of wading birds during the winter months. Follow the heritage trails by foot or by bike, or climb aboard a Spurn Safari 4x4 tour in the company of a knowledgeable guide. Enjoy the vast panoramic views and learn more about the fascinating history of this special place on a visit to the Spurn Lighthouse. Please note that the Point and the Spurn Lighthouse are separated from the mainland at high tide, so check the website carefully for tide times before you visit, and that there are limited facilities at the Point itself. The Bluebell Café in Kilnsea offers hot meals, refreshments and visitor information, whilst a brand new Visitor Centre is planned for 2017.
S ix-spot burnet m ot h
Spurn Safari
www.ywt.org.uk 01964 650533 Climb aboard a giant 4x4 for a safari over the sand, 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 a tour up the lighthouse. Book online.
Spring: See returning sand martins, swallows, wheatears, and black redstarts; you might see roe deer and barn owls during an early morning or evening visit; Look out for inquisitive grey seals peeking their heads out above the waves. Summer: Hear whitethroats singing from the bushes; spot ringed plovers and little terns 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.
VHEY
Autumn: Delicate migratory birds such as warblers and whitethroats can be seen along Spurn as they begin their long journeys off to their 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 merlins; hen harriers 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.
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HUMBER ESTUARY
Spur n Point
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. Admission charges apply, free for RSPB members. See website for prices. 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 redshanks, greenshanks, black-tailed godwits, 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, merlins and occasional hen harriers 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 WIDE
It’s a must!
Yorkshire Coast Nature Tours www.yorkshirecoastnature.co.uk 01723 865498
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YORKSHIRE COAST NATURE
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.
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 avocets, common terns, little ringed plovers, lapwings and redshanks; listen out for reed and sedge warblers. Summer: Spot dragonflies including the four spotted chasers and inquisitive southern hawkers; 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
Nort h Cave Wetlands
Autumn: Dropping water levels prove attractive for passage migrant wading birds like little stint and the chance of rarer species, such as green and common sandpipers.
TONY MARTIN
Winter: See goldeneye, pochard, shoveler, gadwall and teal gathering on the islands alongside lapwings, redshank and occasional visitors like ruff; barn owls, red kites and peregrines 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
Small copper
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 | 25
VALE OF YORK
LOWER DERWENT VALLEY Ings Lane, off Church Lane, Wheldrake YO19 6AS www.ywt.org.uk / naturalengland.org.uk
Wheldrake Ings
Spring and summer: Listen out for the calls of breeding redshanks and curlew, along with the vibrating hum of ‘drumming’ snipe. During May, whimbrels drop into YWT Wheldrake Ings on their migration route, with the meadows at their best in late June when they are filed with meadowsweet, great burnet, meadow vetchling and showy ox-eye daisies. After the late summer hay cut is taken, groups of lapwings and golden plovers can be seen gathering on the meadows whilst migrants such as willow warblers and blackcaps can be seen in hedgerows, and wheatears can pop up almost anywhere. Autumn and winter: Whooper swans and wild geese start arriving in autumn; wigeon arrive in their tens of thousands, alongside pochard, shovelor, tufted ducks, goosander, teal and exquisite pintail which provide a brilliant display; the number of wildfowl peaks in February and March, when in excess of forty thousand birds use the Lower Derwent Valley; look out for barn owls quartering the land.
Comm on lizard
Pi ntai l SKIPWITH COMMON
King Rudding Lane, nr Riccall, YO19 6QL friendsofskipwithcommon.org.uk
JON HAWKINS
Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve is one of the last remaining areas of northern lowland heath in England, providing breeding grounds for green woodpeckers, woodcocks and in some years, nightjars. The remains of a World War Two aerodrome provides basking grounds for grass snakes, adders and common lizards on sunny days. Longhorn cattle, Hebridean sheep and Exmoor ponies graze the site alongside freely roaming fallow and roe deer. There are two car parks and access points at opposite ends of the reserve. There are sections of board walk and tarmacked pathway, but many of the trails are uneven. 26 | Yorkshire Nature Triangle
CHRIS GRADY
KIRSTY BROWN
The Lower Derwent Valley National Nature Reserve is a series of floodplain meadows, wetlands and woodland that have been traditionally managed for centuries and are a year round haven for wildlife. There are three main visitor sites within this large National Nature Reserve – Bank Island, which has two viewing hides and neighbouring YWT Wheldrake Ings, which has four viewing hides, can both be accessed just outside the village of Wheldrake, whilst North Duffield Carrs has two hides and lies between Bubwith and North Duffield. As is the nature of floodplains, the ground and pathways can get very wet during winter so be prepared.
TOPHILL LOW
Water vole
HOLDERNESS
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 ospreys, greenshanks, grebes, little gulls and terns; see grass snakes sunning themselves on warm mornings.
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. Admission charges apply, purchase a ticket from the machine in the car park. Please see website for prices.
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.
GARY COX
Summer: Spot common terns breeding on the marshes, along with black headed gulls, shoveler, pintail and little ringed plovers; 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 godwits, green sandpipers and occasionally rarer species.
Grass snake
JAMIE HALL
Winter: Harsher weather brings occasional Arctic species to the gull roost, including glaucous and Iceland gulls, with wintering peregrines taking the chance to grab a meal; spot wintering smew, along with thousands more wigeon, teal, tufted ducks and gadwall; see brambling on the bird feeders; look for bitterns and water rails stalking the reed beds. yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 27
HORNSEA MERE
Goldeneye
HOLDERNESS
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 available from East Lodge, Wassand Estate main entrance.
YWT KIPLINGCOTES
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
AMY LEWIS
Buzzard
Bl uebells ELLIOTT NEEP WWW.ELLIOTTNEEP.COM
YORKSHIRE WOLDS
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.
GARY FAULKNER
Spring/Summer: Look overhead for migrating ospreys, listen for reed and sedge warblers and keep an eye for grass snakes on the woodland walk.
LOOKING FOR GREAT IDEAS FOR DAYS OUT? As you’ve seen there’s loads of great wildlife activities and nature reserves to enjoy in East Yorkshire, but what to do first and how can you make a full day of it?
Help is at hand with the downloadable Wild Day Out series. These tried and tested itineraries offer suggestions for a full days out, whether you’re looking for the best wildlife routes or a fun packed day out with the kids!
Each Wild Day Out includes: n Top three things to see and do n Seasonal highlights n Local events and activities n Places to eat n Suggestions for combinations of other Wild Days Out for a longer break
Visit www.yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk/wild-days-out
Seasonal wildlife calendar Wildlife
Top Tip
Adder
Visit heaths like Skipwith Common early to watch adders basking in the morning sun
Avocet
Spot chicks at YWT North Cave Wetlands, YWT Kilnsea Wetlands and RSPB Blacktoft Sands
Bearded tit
Listen out for their high pitched ‘pinging’ calls at RSPB Blacktoft Sands
Bittern
Listen for the unmistakeable boom in spring at RSPB Blacktoft Sands
Butterflies
Try the chalk grassland at YWT Kiplingcotes in June, or head to YWT North Cave Wetlands
Barn owl
The Lower Derwent Valley is a good place to spot barn owls at dawn and dusk
Dragonflies
YWT North Cave Wetlands and YWT Filey Dams are great places for dragonflies
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
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
Waders
Visit YWT Spurn or YWT Paull Holme Strays at high tide to watch swirling flocks of knot, dunlin and godwit
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
Wildfowl
Dressed in their finest breeding plumage in winter, try YWT North Cave Wetlands, Tophill Low or the Lower Derwent Valley
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
DON’T FORGET ABOUT THE GREAT BRITISH WEATHER
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.
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.
RSPB Blacktoft Sands 01405 704665 RSPBnorthyorksandeastriding North Cave Wetlands @NorthCaveWet Tophill Low 01377 270690 @tophilllow YWT Spurn 01964 650533 YWTSpurnPointNationalNatureReserve Spurn Bird Observatory spurnbirdobservatory.co.uk @spurnbirdobs Flamborough Bird Observatory fbo.org.uk @FlamboroughBird
ISS
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.
JO NATH AN BL
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.
Filey Bird Observatory fbog.co.uk
All information and pricings are correct at time of going to press. No responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions, nor any consequences arising from using this guide.
Merli n yorkshirenaturetriangle.org.uk | 31
ISSUE 2
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.