Fowlmere Nature Reserve is a an oasis of wildlife set within farmlandm between the villages of Fowlmere and Melbourn, about 10 miles south west of Cambridge. It is under the care of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB). The reserve was created from former water-cress beds, which are now reed-bed, fen, and scrub woodland. It is especially important for birdlife, and is home to breeding Turtle Doves, Water Rail and Barn Owls, as well as winter roosts of Reed Buntings. Bearded Tits and Bitterns are found occasionally in winter, and Otters and Water Voles are regularly seen. The reserve is also home to an interesting array of wetland plant life. The small but beautiful River Shep is a fine example of a chalk stream, and is one of the UK's rarest habitats, which is home to Brown Trout and Water Voles. It rises from natural springs within the reserve, which gush an impressive amount of water. The reserve itself is accessed by 3km of trails, comprising hard surfaced footpaths and boardwalks, most of which are designed to be wheelchair accessible. (Other surfaces are uneven and can be soft and muddy after rain.) There are three "hides", enabling bird watches to look out on to the reserve without disturbing the wildlife (and they also provide shelter if it rains. There is a small car park at the end of the access road from Mill Road, with a £3 all-day charge (can be paid by parking app or a monetary donation). There is a small information hut / visitor centre, open at ad hoc times and staffed by volunteers. At other times there is plenty of information on display boards around the reserve, including those aimed at younger children. Near the visitor centre and car park, there is an accessible waterless eco-toilet, and a small picnic area. read more

Fowlmere Nature Reserve - Fleabane by the River Shep - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Royston, HRT

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