England · five wildlife sites

Nature reserves & wildlife sites in Buckinghamshire

Explore these places for wildlife in Buckinghamshire. Seasonal notes suggest when to look; sightings are not guaranteed.

01 / 05

College Lake

Near Bulbourne, near Tring

Habitat: A former chalk quarry with lakes, marshland, islands and flower-rich grassland.
Wildlife to look for: Lapwing (especially breeding season), redshank (breeding season), common tern (spring–summer), wigeon (winter), small blue butterfly (late spring–summer).

02 / 05

Near Wendover

Habitat: Sheltered Chiltern woodland with chalk grassland and sunny clearings.
Wildlife to look for: Green woodpecker, great spotted woodpecker, tawny owl, small blue butterfly (late spring–summer), silver-washed fritillary butterfly (summer).

03 / 05

Near Aston Clinton and Wendover

Habitat: A small former chalk pit with orchid-rich grassland and sheltered scrub.
Wildlife to look for: Chalkhill blue butterfly (summer), marbled white butterfly (summer), slow-worm (warmer months), grass snake (warmer months), Roman snail (especially after rain).

04 / 05

Near Quainton

Habitat: Ancient woodland with broad sunny rides, rough pasture and flower-rich clearings.
Wildlife to look for: Purple emperor butterfly (summer), white admiral butterfly (summer), black hairstreak butterfly (June–early July), nuthatch, buzzard.
Access note: Check the official website for access arrangements during nearby HS2 works.

05 / 05

Near Ludgershall and Brill

Habitat: Damp ancient woodland bordered by traditional wildflower meadows.
Wildlife to look for: Black hairstreak butterfly (June–early July), purple hairstreak butterfly (summer), purple emperor butterfly (summer), white admiral butterfly (summer), great spotted woodpecker.