Old Park Wood Holiday Park is nestled in the southern Lake District, literally on the shores of the Levens Estuary, one of Cumbria’s most enchanting natural habitats. Stretching along the River Kent as it flows into Morecambe Bay, this area is a haven for wildlife, attracting birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, and ecologists alike. With its rich tapestry of mudflats, salt marshes, tidal creeks, and reed beds, the Levens Estuary offers a dynamic environment teeming with life, right on our holiday home owners’ doorsteps!
A biodiverse Sanctuary for wildlife
The Levens Estuary is a vital part of the Morecambe Bay ecosystem, which is one of the UK’s most significant tidal landscapes. The estuary is influenced by the ebb and flow of saltwater mixing with freshwater from the River Kent, creating a unique habitat for a wide variety of species. The mudflats are particularly rich in nutrients, supporting countless invertebrates, which in turn attract numerous birds, fish, and mammals.
Avian riches
Birdlife is perhaps the most prominent feature of the Levens Estuary. In winter, the area becomes a vital feeding ground for overwintering waders and wildfowl. Species such as curlews, oystercatchers, and redshanks can be seen probing the mudflats for worms, molluscs, and crustaceans. During migration periods, flocks of lapwings and golden plovers pass through, creating spectacular displays in the skies above.
One of the highlights for birdwatchers is spotting the iconic egrets and herons, often seen stalking their prey in the shallows. Little egrets are abundant in the Levens Estuary both as a breeding species and winter visitor, whilst the larger and rarer great white egret also makes regular appearances. The largest of the harriers, the majestic marsh harrier, with its graceful flight and piercing cries, is another notable resident of the estuary’s reed beds. Seasonal visitors such as the arctic tern and black-tailed godwit also make appearances, making the estuary a hotspot for birdwatching all year round.
Mammals of the Estuary
While the birds might take centre stage, the Levens Estuary is also home to a variety of mammals. Otters are occasionally spotted along the riverbanks, hunting for fish in the shallows or sliding gracefully through the water. Their presence indicates the health of this aquatic ecosystem. Alongside the otters, seals are sometimes seen in Morecambe Bay and the lower reaches of the estuary, particularly during high tides when they hunt for fish close to shore. Roe deer can be found grazing in the surrounding marshland and meadows, their movements silent and cautious as they navigate this tranquil yet bustling environment.
Flora and invertebrates
The salt marshes and tidal areas of the Levens Estuary support a wide array of plant life, from sea lavender to marsh samphire. These hardy plants play a crucial role in stabilizing the soil and providing food and shelter for small mammals and insects. Local Michelin-starred chefs have even been known to forage on the shores of the Estuary just below or Holiday Park, in search of samphire and coriander grass.
The mudflats are alive with invertebrates such as lugworms, ragworms, and cockles, which are essential to the estuary’s food chain. These creatures not only sustain bird populations but also play a critical role in the nutrient cycling of the ecosystem.
Conservation efforts
The Levens Estuary and its surrounding areas are protected under several conservation designations, including Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and the Morecambe Bay Special Protection Area (SPA). These protections aim to safeguard the delicate balance of life in this estuarine environment while allowing sustainable use by humans for activities such as birdwatching, fishing, and walking.
A place worth exploring
Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or a casual explorer, the Levens Estuary offers a captivating glimpse into the richness of Cumbria’s wildlife. From the sweeping calls of curlews to the silent grace of an otter slipping into the water, every visit to this estuary is a reminder of the incredible diversity of life that thrives in these dynamic landscapes.
If you love nature then you’ll love Old Park Wood Holiday Park! To arrange a visit to discuss how you could own a holiday home nestled in a true wildlife haven, contact us here.
