Leighton Moss RSPB reserve

Leighton Moss is a nature reserve in Lancashire, near Silverdale and Carnforth on the edge of Morecambe Bay. It lies within the Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The reserve covers the largest reed bed in north-west England and protects a vast area of Morecambe Bay’s saltmarsh. It has held international status since 1985, when it was named a Ramsar site. The site is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Protection Area. The reserve is home to bitterns, marsh harriers, bearded tits, otters and red deer. In 2021 six booming male bitterns were recorded, their calls compared to blowing across a milk bottle. Rare visitors include osprey, Eurasian spoonbill and little gull. The reserve once hosted BBC Autumnwatch in 2013 and 2014. A nine-metre Skytower gives wide views over the reed beds and saltmarsh. Seven wildlife hides allow close watching of birds and mammals. One hide is named after comedian Eric Morecambe. Nature trails wind through the reed beds and along the bay’s edge. The Visitor Centre offers information, a shop and a café. Events and guided walks take place throughout the year. The reserve’s habitats are carefully managed to keep reed beds healthy and prevent saltwater intrusion.