Have half-term fun with wildlife
Washington Wetland Centre is teeming with wildlife this half-term as it bounces back from lockdown.
The 103-acre site reopened on April 12 and has been given the Good to Go stamp of approval, which means the centre is operating within governmentguidelinesandpublic health guidance for managing coronavirus risk.
Visitor numbers remain restricted and a booking system is in place for all visitors, including members, essential helpers and children under four.
The centre says it is “the perfect place to begin safely exploring the great outdoors oncemore,withunforgettable animal encounters, wild wetland walks and stunning scenery to suit all ages and needs”.
PR and marketing executive Leanne McCormella said: “With spring life blooming all around, families visiting this half-term will find themselves in the perfect place to reconnect with nature after a difficult few months.
“They can enjoy wide open spaces bursting with wetland wildlife, including fluffy goslings on our waterways, colourful
butterflies and flora emerging in our meadows and wild otters or roe deer using the Saline Lagoon.
“Our newly reopened bird hidesalsoofferstunningcloseup views of breeding waders such as avocet and common tern in action, with elaborate courtshiprituals,nestbuilding and hatching young on Wader Lake.
"And our resident Asian short-clawed otters and pink Chilean flamingos can be seen throughout the day, as well as ourwonderfulcollectionbirds, some of which can be fed by hand with corn.
“During this past year, we’ve never felt more acutely our absolute need to be connected with the wild world.
“Being able to welcome them back has been such a joy and we – and our wildlife! – can’t wait to see even more happy, smiling families enjoying our beautiful site.”
Entry costs £11.15 or £10.13 without Gift Aid for adults, £9.50 or £8.63 for concessions (65+, disabled, full-time student and unemployed), £6.40 or £5.81 for children aged 4-16 years.
Children under four, carers and members can visit for free but pre-booking is still required.
Family tickets for two adults and two children aged 4-16yearscost£29.80or£27.09 without Gift Aid. Visit www. wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/ washington for more details.