Grey seals are wonderful creatures to watch and can be seen during the breeding season (November to early February) all across the beach and sand dunes at Horsey or, if you prefer taking to the water, off Blakeney Point where there is the National Seal Sanctuary.
The North Norfolk Wildlife Trust offers brilliant information about nature reserves in North Norfolk. It is the oldest Wildlife Trust in the country. NWT now care for 40 nature reserves and other protected sites. These are some of their nature reserves:
Cley and Salthouse Marshes
Cley is internationally reputed as a premier birdwatching site. The view from the visitor centre across the Marsh to the sea is breathtaking. Salthouse is one of a string of important birdwatching sites along the North Norfolk Coast. A shingle bank protects it from the ravages of the North Sea.
Thursford Wood
The oaks here are some of the oldest in the county and could be over 500 years old. The dead branches and partially rotten trunks provide refuge for a stunning area.
A visit to Happisburgh Owls is a wonderful way to be introduced to these incredible birds of prey.ray of wildlife.
Hickling Broad
The largest expanse of open water in the Broads system, with a great deal to see on foot or by boat.
Martham Broad
This fabulous National Nature Reserve is one of the best sites in Broadland to see the swallowtail butterfly, as well as an array of birds.
Horsey Mere has only restricted access by boat. Winter wildfowl with occasional swans, extensive reed beds and proximity to sea give it a special attraction to birds of passage.
Pensthorpe is a multi-award-winning attraction situated in the beautiful North Norfolk countryside and provides a day of discovery and excitement.
“The wonderful gardens create a year-round spectacle of interest and colour. With 171 recorded wild bird species and many more that are part of the Pensthorpe Conservation Trust‘s captive breeding and educational programmes, Pensthorpe is an ideal location for both birdwatchers and casual observers.”
