EASTER BREAK: It’s been a wonderful Easter at RSPB Newport Wetlands. 
There’s been so much to see and do and we’ve had visitors from far and wide.

Younger visitors enjoyed glorious walks around the reserve, the favourite being across the wibbly wobbly bridge to the River Severn foreshore and lighthouse.

We saw the return of the popular ‘Mum and Egg’ trail, where children turned into detectives to find the clues that would link Mum and her offspring. Fresh air, exercise, fun and discovering so many things made it very exciting, almost as exciting as choosing one of the Easter bunnies as a prize at the end! Everyone’s favourite seemed to be the pond dipping. Keeping families enthralled for hours, they re always amazed to realise that waters that appear lifeless are in fact teeming with wildlife. 

In fact, a new discovery was made last week as one of the visitors found a crane fly larvae which none of the staff had ever seen before – so there is always the chance of discovering new and exciting things here!  

Over the next few weeks we have many more events that will appeal to all. During the first weekend of every month we host a binocular and telescope demonstration. The wildlife in the reserve is bought into such vivid detail when using binoculars, but so many of us have no idea where to start when choosing some that are just right for us. Come along, take your time, browse, try some out and be guided by our expert’s advice.   The event is free and all are welcome between 10am and 4pm. There is wide range of optics on sale at the visitor centre shop and any money raised will help us support the wildlife on the reserve.

On Saturday April  29 there is a unique opportunity to join the Friends of Goldcliff for an in depth look at breeding waders in this very special place.  Spaces are restricted, so booking is essential to ensure you don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to find out more about the birds at Goldcliff.  

On May 7 there is an event that you will never forget. The 5.15am start is well worth it just to hear the exquisite singing of the dawn chorus on the reserve. Get up with the larks, or more likely, the reed warblers, here at the wetlands and find out which species each song belongs to.  The event is organised by Natural Resources Wales and led by professional ornithologist Darryl Spittle. 

If that is too early and you would prefer a lie in on Sunday, RSPB Cymru is running a Family Bird Song Walk from 9.30am to 11am to celebrate International Dawn Chorus Day. Booking is essential for this event as it is a popular one in on our calendar.

Attend an event or just come along to be surrounded by nature at its best, you are always welcome to visit us at RSPB Newport Wetlands.

To find out more about our work or book onto an event please visit our website at rspb.org.uk/newport or call us on 01633 636363.

Newport Wetlands - Rosi Hollister