The first sound of a nightingale singing was heard on the nature reserve on Monday 6 April. Nightingales are migratory, and typically fly to the UK from sub-Saharan Africa in mid-April. They stay till late summer for their breeding season.
These iconic songbirds have suffered a severe decline of around 90% over the last 50 years. However, Fingringhoe Wick near Colchester, has remained a stronghold for the species, supporting 1% of the UK’s entire population.
Only the male sings
Male nightingales produce a remarkable array of trills, whistles, gurgles and crescendos to attract a mate. They have a vocal range of more than 1,000 sounds. Once paired, the males fall silent, so now is the best time to experience their song.
Visitors can often hear nightingales throughout the day, with peak activity at dawn and dusk. They are shy, small birds, often heard rather than seen, but well worth hearing.
Fingringhoe Wick Reserve has accessible footpaths, offering a rare opportunity to experience these songbirds up close without disturbing them.
Hear one of the UK’s rarest songbirds
Ranger-led guided walks provide the perfect way to discover these fascinating birds. Fingringhoe Wick is open every day from 9am to 5pm, and from 24 April will host a series of ranger-led guided walks during the nightingale breeding season.
Amazing spectacle
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 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.”
For more information or to book a place on the guided walks, visit www.essexwt.org.uk/events/nightingale.
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