Did you know that we have over 30 nature reserves in Sussex, and that they are all free to visit?
We’ve chosen three of our best reserves from across the county that are great for wildlife in the spring.
Ebernoe Common
A magical network of ancient wood pasture with ponds, streams and meadows, Ebernoe Common is hidden away in the far north-west corner of Sussex.
This spring you will see Bluebells, Early Purple Orchids, Cowslips and Primroses. Adders will be looking for safe basking areas whilst hundreds, if not thousands, of Common Toads will be mating in the ponds.
Malling Down and Southerham Farm
A brisk walk on the downs in the spring is a great way to blow away the winter’s cobwebs. Our reserves at Malling Down and Southerham are two of the best examples of chalk grassland in Sussex, with many rare flowers and butterflies, all within easy walking distance of Lewes town centre.
On a sunny spring day there’s nothing better than sitting back in the grass listening to Skylarks singing high up in the blue sky. In May you might be lucky enough to see the beautiful Adonis Blue butterfly feeding on the bright Yellow Kidney Vetch at Malling Down.
Rye Harbour
Rye Harbour is one of the most important conservation sites in Britain. Enjoy some amazing wildlife along miles of path with five bird watching hides accessible to wheelchairs. It comprises a mosaic of coastal habitats; shingle, saltmarsh, saline lagoons, coastal grazing marsh, freshwater gravel pits and reedbeds.
This spring the lagoons will be busy with hundreds of Sandwich Terns, and the rich insect life will attract Housemartins and Swallows. Also look out for Orange-tips and Peacock butterflies.
Help protect the nature reserves of Sussex
Our nature reserves contain some of the most important and fragile habitats in Sussex, but without careful management these precious habitats degrade quickly and restoration can take decades.The Wildlife Trust movement was founded on the concept of nature reserves, and they depend on support from people like you. Will you become a member today to help protect our nature reserves?
With so many species on the red list and at risk of extinction, we need to do all we can to stand up for wildlife. A monthly gift will help us protect the wildlife of Sussex.
This post is also available on Sussex Wildlife Trust website
