Ducklings and daffodils
See the newly hatched ducklings take their first dip
Chocolate eggs are nice, but not very exciting to look at. So this Easter skip along to WWT London Wetland Centre to see the duckling displays during which you can follow the progress of real-life Easter eggs. See ducklings developing inside their shells at 'egg candling' demonstrations. The technique is called candling (although candles are no longer used) because it involves shining a bright light onto the egg so you can see through the shell to discover how the duckling is developing.
When the ducklings have hatched, watch them taking their first swim in their very own pool. WWT wardens will be on hand to explain how the ducklings have developed and about their behaviour and habitats.
To keep your own brood amused during the school holidays you can also take part in the family activities at London Wetland Centre. Take a self-guided Easter Egg trail around this beautiful wildlife haven to learn more about courtship displays; make your own fingerprint blossom picture or decorate eggs in the spring craft workshops or, for those with a sense of adventure, join in the scrap challenge.
April is the time when wild ducklings start to hatch. Fat, fluffy mallard ducklings chase after their mother across the ponds in the sunshine and stripey Great Crested Grebe chicks hitch a ride on their parents’ backs (right).
As warm sunny days become more frequent primroses poke their noses above ground, willow branches are decked in their soft, shiny catkin baubles and the first lizards wake from four months asleep. Other floral highlights at London Wetland Centre are daffodils, marsh marigold, blackthorn, colt’s foot, blue anemones, sweet violets and common field-speedwell.
The Easter duckling displays and family activities take place from Saturday, April 9 until Monday, April 25.
Find out more here: Easter egg-stravaganza
Supported by City Bridge Trust
