WWT Slimbridge

WWT Slimbridge, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, England

WWT Slimbridge is a wetland reserve managed by the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust near Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, England. Slimbridge is halfway between Bristol and Gloucester on the estuary of the River Severn. It was opened on 10 November 1946 by the artist and naturalist Sir Peter Scott. The reserve was the first WWT centre to be opened.

The number of ducks, geese and swans is greatest in winter, with large flocks of white-fronted geese, sometimes with a rare lesser white-fronted goose amongst them. Bewicks swans are a feature of Slimbridge in winter, arriving from northern Russia to enjoy the milder climate of southern England. Their behaviour has been studied intensely at Slimbridge. The pattern on each birds beak is unique and is recorded in small paintings from front and side views (rather like mug shots) to aid recognition. Birds of prey such as peregrine and merlin also visit the centre in the winter, as well as wading birds and songbirds.


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