The Birds of Norfolk

Site Images

Holme NWT dunes 

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Holme NWT firs house 

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Holme reserves driveway 

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Holme NWT information board 

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Collared Flycatcher by Julian Bhalerao 

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Summary

A large wildlife reserve in the dune slacks of the North west of the county

Location

This reserve can seem quite bird less at times, but if the right weather conditions prevail every bush can hold a bird. The reserve has a large dune system with scattered bushes, a golf course bordering it, tidal creeks a vast beach, muddy areas at low tide for waders, a conifer wood, fresh water lagoons, grazing meadows and a small reedbed.

In winter Gore point is a good spot to look for Long Tailed Duck, it is usually the most reliable site in the county and the ‘flock’ can be up to 20 birds. Other birds seen often include the rarer grebes, Divers and commoner sea ducks.

In spring the place comes alive with Turtle doves, Cuckoos and Warblers. The paddocks and gardens either side of the entrance track can be good for Redstarts, Ring Ouzels & wagtails. Nearer to the visitor centre several hides overlook fresh water lagoons, these hold lots of waterfowl and waders.

Autumn is a good time for sea watching, this along with Cley & Sheringham is one of the best sites to see Shearwaters, Petrels, Skuas and Auks. The wind needs to be coming from the North West but you will need to find shelter for optimum viewing. At this time of year the large area of bushes and small trees in the middle of the dune system are worth checking for migrant passerines, also the NWT car park trees are good for warblers and flycatchers.

Target Species

Passage Migrants and vagrants