Natural England - Shapwick: what makes it special?

Shapwick: what makes it special?

It’s the mix of habitats at Shapwick that make the reserve so rich in wildlife.

An incredible 64 different species of birds nest at Shapwick, including Cetti's warbler and great-crested grebes, while dragonflies and over 27 species of butterfly abound in the summer. These include the silver washed fritillary, purple hairstreak and orange-tip, while the path to Meare Hide is the best place to see the large and impressive White Admiral.

Over 24 different mammals have also been seen at Shapwick, including water voles, lesser horseshoe bats and, of course, otters.

Reed beds

Many of the reserve’s old peat workings have been restored to reed bed habitat, and provide a haven for wildlife.

Look out for:

  • Bittern - this rare and elusive member of the heron family will, if disturbed, stretch its neck skywards to mimic the reeds in which it nests and feeds. In early spring listen for the ‘booming’ call of the male.

  • Otter - Shapwick Heath is now one of the best places in England to see this iconic animal. With large areas to feed and live in, there is a great chance you’ll catch a glimpse of one from a hide.

  • Marsh Harrier - these rare and impressive raptors fly at slow speeds just above the reed beds before stalling, mid-flight, and dropping down onto their prey.

Fen

The fenland areas of Shapwick Heath are rich in plant and insect life.

Look out for:

  • Hairy Dragonfly - many types of dragon and damselflies patrol the wetlands during summer. One of the rarest is the Hairy Dragonfly, so-called because its upper body (thorax) is covered in hair.

Meadow

The meadows at Canada Farm are managed organically and cut in late July when the wildflowers have set seed. The hay is then turned regularly and left to dry, allowing seeds to fall, enter the soil, and hopefully germinate next year.

Red Devon cattle and Shetland sheep graze the meadows, helping to spread seed in their dung, and also control the growth of coarse grasses and scrub.

Surface water drains off the fields into water channels known as ‘rhynes’ (pronounced ‘reens’), first dug over 200 years ago. The rhynes also act as ‘wet fences’ to control grazing stock and are a perfect habitat for plants such as yellow flag iris, great water dock and purple loosestrife.

Look out for:

  • Water Vole - this is a nationally important haven for these rare rodents, that make their homes along the rhynes and ditches. Look out for their distinctive burrows, and listen for the tell-tale ‘plop’ as one is disturbed and swims for cover.

Wet woodland

The damp woodland surrounding the meadows are dominated by alder, willow, birch, and are a haven for many unusual plants and a huge number of insects, including the rare Lesser Silver Diving Beetle.

Look out for:

  • The Royal Fern - one of the tallest European ferns, the central leaves turn golden brown in summer and resemble a flower spike.