Conservation conversations: February 2025 on the Holkham National Nature Reserve

January 29, 2025 | WONDER | 2 minute read

Winter is a spectacular time on the Holkham National Nature Reserve (NNR). We’ve caught up with our NNR wardens to find out more about the wildlife you can spot at this time of year, and what else is happening in this amazing area.

February is the time of year when we begin to see our overwintering visitors leave. Tens of thousands migratory waders and wildfowl are starting to make their way further north to their breeding grounds in Scandinavia, Iceland and Russia.  The numbers of pinkfoot geese, wigeon, lapwing, curlew and teal that we’ve become used to over the winter at Holkham will steadily reduce as the month goes on.

Meanwhile, other species are making preparations for nesting here on the NNR, setting up their territories for breeding.  Those likely to start nesting first are ravens and are likely to be sitting on eggs by the middle end of the month. Bring your binoculars and it is possible that you may be able to see them in Holkham Park, nesting up on the Monument, where they’ve been for the past three years.

Grey herons will start nest building soon and we’ll be keeping a close watch on their numbers. Last year saw a record number of 20 pairs nesting here. Our much-admired spoonbills will return to the NNR by the middle of February, ready to start their breeding season.

Visit the Joe Jordan and George Washington hides, which are signposted from Lady Anne’s Drive, for your best chance to view these birds.

Lastly, there is some good news on the Holkham Gap boardwalk. Norfolk Trails, who are responsible for its upkeep, will be starting a significant refurbishment this month with the aim of finishing by the end of March. Expect some re-routing while the work is taking place, and we can’t wait to unveil the improved access route.

For daily updates, follow us on Instagram @holkhamconservation