In the heart of the heavy industrial area of Avonmouth
lies one of our most unusual reserves. Within the boundaries
of a modern sewage treatment works, it attracts an
astonishing number of ducks, waders and other water
birds.
Access
The birds are easily disturbed and lagoons are potentially
treacherous, hence access to permit holders only. Permits
and maps, issued to Avon Wildlife Trust members only,
obtainable from the Trust.
Wildlife and conservation
Three man-made lagoons and a pool provide welcome feeding
and resting areas for many birds. The deeper lagoons
attract diving ducks such as pochard and tufted duck.
The shallower pool, known as Teal Pond, has a thick
growth of water plants at its edge, and provides
plentiful food and cover. From the bird hide overlooking
this pond you can watch out for dabbling ducks such
as teal and shoveler.
Rough tussocky grassland provides a refuge for voles
and other small mammals, which are preyed upon by kestrels
and barn owls.
Whatever the time of year, there is always something
to see. Winter is the best time with up to 200 ducks
in their breeding plumage. By April/May, a variety
of waders appear. Summer is relatively quiet, though
there is a surprising variety of dragonflies including
emporer and hairy dragonfly. By July, green sandpiper,
snipe and other waders have returned on their migration
south.
A trail, a bird hide and a screen are also maintained.
Other points of interest
Two of the lagoons are filled with treated effluent
and are used for fish-rearing. The third is a reservoir
for the incinerator.
Further information
The reserve is owned by Wessex Water and managed by
agreement.
