NEWPORT Wetlands is celebrating its 20th birthday next month.
The reserve was first established by the Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) in 2000 to mitigate the loss of the wildlife habitat in the area after the Cardiff Bay Barrage scheme was undertaken, and is owned and managed by Natural Resources Wales (NRW).
The reserve lies along the Severn Estuary, stretching from Goldcliff to Uskmouth, and is part of the Gwent Levels. Covering an area of 866 hectares, it includes parts of the Severn Estuary and habitats of salt marsh, reed beds, saline lagoons, wet grassland, and scrub.
The plaque marking the opening of the wetlands reserve in March 2000. Picture: www.christinsleyphotography.co.uk
The lagoons are carefully managed by NRW to ensure they get enough sea water. As sea water floods in, so does the marine life which provides an important source of food for the wildlife.
Newport Wetlands is best known for its range of birds, from the bearded tit hiding in the reeds to the little egret fishing in the pools.
However, the wetlands are not just home to birds, so keep your eyes peeled for bumbles, dragonflies and moths during the summer months.
The reserve is also home to badgers, moles, wood mice and otters.
Kevin Dupe from Natural Resources Wales makes use of the hide to keep an eye on things at Newport Wetlands. Picture: www.christinsleyphotography.co.uk
Information regarding the wildlife can be discovered through the Wetlands Centre, opened in 2008, which is nestled among reeds and pools to make it look as if it is floating.
It houses a shop, café, an education room and conference facilities for activities and events as well as a place for visitors to relax.
Steve Kelly runs the café, open from 10am-4pm, which has become popular with visitors for its delicious food. There are a variety of gluten free, vegan and vegetarian choices and it follows the RSPB’s ethos of ethical purchasing.
Stephen Kelly catering manager at the Newport Wetlands. Picture: www.christinsleyphotography.co.uk
They are also known for their locally produced cakes, from Clam’s Cakes and Delicia Cakes and Teas, which include bara brith and a varied range of sponge cakes.
Their coffee is also grown in a special forest-like habitat providing a haven for birds and other wildlife. It’s Fairtrade, organic and certified bird-friendly by the Smithsonian Institute, so now you can help save nature simply by enjoying a great cup of coffee.
The centre has classroom facilities and a full range of equipment to support an exciting programme of curriculum-based activities so schools can get the most from their visit.
Sunset over the lighthouse at Newport Wetlands. Picture: www.christinsleyphotography.co.uk
The centre offers year-round events suitable for all ages and abilities. Wildlife Explorer backpacks are available to hire if you want to go on your own minibeast safari and are free for RSPB members. If you would like to do your own thing, there are free spotting sheets and self-led trails.
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There are a ton of events that are available all year round and is ideal for children and families. Wildlife explorer backpacks are available to hire if you want to go on your own mini-beast safari, and are free for RSPB members.
Spotting sheets and self-led trails are available all year round, encouraging you to take a closer look at the reserve.
Taking a gentle stroll around the Newport Wetlands. www.christinsleyphotography.co.uk)
The reserve is also highly reliant on volunteers, being a charity, so if you are interested head to the website and check out the ‘Ways to volunteer’ section and fill in the required form.
The lighthouse at the Newport Wetlands. Picture: www.christinsleyphotography.co.uk
The car park and Visitor Centre are open from 9am-5pm daily - charges do apply for the car park at £3 per vehicle, although RSPB members can park for free.
Newport Bus service number 63 to Whitson stops at the reserve car park. Dogs are allowed in certain parts of the reserve only and must always be on a lead.
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