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Staveley Nature Reserve

North Yorkshire  >  United Kingdom

Wetland of 79 hectares with two lakes, fields and woodland where many birds can be seen. You can make a circular walk and there are five bird hides.

Added* by Karen Hargreave
Most recent update 15 May 2024

Description

Staveley Nature Reserve has lots of biodiversity, orchids, butterflies, dragonflies, moths, otters as well as numerous species of birds, with over 200 species recorded and always the chance of a rarity. The area consists of two large, flooded former gravel pits, fringed with rushes, along with several small pools and drainage channels. Some extensive grassland and small areas of woodland. Hebridean sheep and Highland cattle graze the land throughout the year.

The reserve has stunning views, flat walking and a circular walk if required. Bird hides overlook the lakes and reed bed and also have feeding stations. Staveley is renowned for Water Rail, which can often be seen taking spilt grain beneath the feeding stations. Other birds that can be spotted are Cetti's Warbler, Bearded Tit, Reed Bunting, Sedge Warbler, Barn Owl, Red Kite, Common Tern, Avocet, Common Snipe, Eurasian Curlew, Common Teal, Northern Shoveler and Common Shelduck.

Details

Access

Staveley Nature Reserve is located just north of the village of Staveley. Open at all times and free entry and car park. The car park is just outside Staveley village on Minskip Road, holding 12 cars. Click on the P in the map for directions to the car park. Level footpaths and easy access for those of limited mobility, although a good deal of walking is required to cover the entire site. There are five bird hides – three fully accessible. Making the circular walk and visiting all the bird hides is about a 3 mile walk.

Terrain and Habitat

Forest , Scattered trees and bushes , Grassland , Wetland , Lake , Reedbeds , Agriculture , City/village

Conditions

Flat , Wet

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring

Route

Wide path , Narrow trail

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot , Wheelchair

Birdwatching hide / platform

Yes

Links

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

Other birds you can see here

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