4 things to do in nature this autumn
In early October, a delicate yellow-browed warbler was spotted at WWT London Wetland Centre. The last sighting on site was well over 10 years ago. Weighing at around 7 grams, this type of warbler is small and green. It’s best known for its distinctive yellow “eyebrows”, as well as its coal tit-like call.
Autumn is an exciting time to visit the wetlands, as millions of birds are on the move from north to south. Most of them are passing through on migration; some familiar faces will come back to stay for the winter. As the hustle and bustle of spring and summer grind to a stop, it’s tempting to curl up on the sofa with a chunky knit and pumpkin spice latte. But autumn is the perfect time to take in the extraordinary avian migration while soaking up the gorgeous colour and crisp air that this season has to offer.
And there is definitely no shortage of things to do in the next few months at London Wetland Centre, rain or shine. Here are some of our favourites:
1. Get into birdwatching
If you are looking for a new hobby to get away from the screens, consider birdwatching. No prior experience is necessary; simply start looking at the birds and you will start to learn about them. Yes, birdwatching really is that simple!
A few pieces of optical equipment can kickstart your birdwatching journey. Binoculars are a light, versatile tool that can be used in different scenarios. They can help you scan through the habitats and pick out individual birds that you want to study. If you bring them back in summer, they can also help you get close to the orchids and butterflies without disturbing them. You can find a range of binoculars for rent or purchase at London Wetland Centre.
Birdwatching is also the perfect activity to get the kids involved. A day spent birdwatching can also be a day spent with family outside, teaching kids to love and care for nature.
2. Improve your wildlife photography skills
Ever wanted to capture the mesmerizing colours in autumn? London Wetland Centre’s November wildlife photography workshop is specially designed with autumn colours in mind.
Photographer Jackie Rado will lead a small group of students, with plenty of one-to-one tuition. You’ll learn about contrasts, colours and exposures, among other things. You’ll learn to use these settings to capture beautiful, vibrant and personal images.
No prior experience is necessary for this workshop, as it caters to all levels of photography. The 6-hour course means you will spend plenty of time outside, getting close to nature and getting familiar with your camera’s settings.
3. Go for a woodland walk without leaving London
On November 12, you will have a chance to walk through an area of London Wetland Centre that is normally closed to the public.
During this guided walk through the centre’s woodland, you’ll learn about the importance of woodlands, as well the biodiversity supported by the habitat, such as fungi, beetles and woodland passerines.
It’s the perfect day out, without travelling outside London. That being said, you may not be in the countryside, but a pair of good shoes are still highly recommended, as the ground may be wet and even!
4. Be dazzled by shimmering lights in nature
Last but definitely not the least, the enchanting Illuminature is back for another year at London Wetland Centre.
Follow the light trail that meanders through the wetland and wraps our lagoons and marshes in a magical ring of shimmer.Along the route, play in the immersive tunnels, hop along the responsive lily-pads, create colourful shadow animals and enjoy a multitude of other opportunities to interact with nature and light.
It’s designed to be a fun outing for children, and an awe-inspiring journey for adults. Tickets are on sale now: https://www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/london/what...
