Spring has arrived at Fingringhoe Wick Nature Discovery Park and with it brings the much anticipated return of the nightingale. 

The first nightingale was heard singing on the nature reserve on Monday 6th April. Nightingales are migratory, typically visiting the UK from mid-April to June, for their breeding season.

These iconic songbirds have suffered a severe decline of around 90% over the last 50 years. However, Fingringhoe Wick has remained a stronghold for the species, supporting 1% of the UK's entire population. 

Male nightingales produce a remarkable array of trills, whistles, gurgles and crescendos to attract a mate, with a vocal range of more than 1,000 sounds. Once paired, the males fall silent, making now the best time to experience their song. 

Visitors can often hear nightingales throughout the day, with peak activity at dawn and dusk. 

The reserve features accessible footpaths, offering a rare opportunity to experience these songbirds up close without disturbing them. Ranger-led guided walks provide the perfect way to discover these fascinating birds. 

Open daily from 9am to 5pm, Fingringhoe Wick will host a series of ranger-led guided walks during the nightingale breeding season, starting from 24April. 

For more information or to book your place on the guided walks, click here or call Fingringhoe Wick Nature Discovery Centre on 01206 729678. 

Shaun Bater, Site Manager at Fingringhoe Wick Nature Discovery Park says:

“Every year we wait to hear one of the most amazing spectacles of the season, nightingales returning to Fingringhoe Wick. This nature reserve is a stronghold for the species and we love to hear the males serenading their mates. Our guided walks will soon return in a few weeks’ time and are intended to help people learn more about nightingales – they are popular events, so don’t miss out on booking. Whether you live locally or are visiting from afar, coming to hear the nightingales is a must for any wildlife lover.”