England · five wildlife sites

Nature reserves & wildlife sites in Somerset

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

01 / 05

Ham Wall

Near Meare, near Glastonbury

Habitat: Extensive reedbeds, open pools and wet grassland on former peat workings.
Wildlife to look for: Bittern (listen for booming in spring), kingfisher, otter (elusive), water vole (elusive), starling (autumn–winter roosts).

02 / 05

Near Shapwick

Habitat: Reedbeds and lakes mixed with wet woodland, fen and wildflower meadows.
Wildlife to look for: Bittern, great white egret, marsh harrier, bearded tit, hobby (spring–summer).

03 / 05

Near Westhay

Habitat: Reedbeds and open water surrounding a surviving area of lowland peat bog.
Wildlife to look for: Bittern (listen for booming in spring), marsh harrier, great white egret, hobby (spring–summer), otter (elusive).

04 / 05

Near Steart, near Bridgwater

Habitat: Coastal saltmarsh, tidal creeks and freshwater wetlands beside the River Parrett.
Wildlife to look for: Avocet, little ringed plover (spring–summer), dunlin (autumn–winter), pintail (winter), brown hare.

05 / 05

Near Catcott

Habitat: Seasonally flooded meadows, reedbeds, pools and wet woodland.
Wildlife to look for: Wigeon (winter), pintail (winter), black-tailed godwit (winter), kingfisher, roe deer.