Visitors to London Wetland Centre this summer can spy Tod and Honey, the resident Asian small-clawed otters, as they cool down in the heat with delicious icy treats.
The fish-filled lollies are some of the furry duo’s hot-weather favourites, as they duck and dive playfully after the slippery snacks, fishing them out of water with their dextrous paws.
Nature-loving visitors can also enjoy spotting the little grebe who has been making a splash with wetland-goers and WWT staff alike with his characterful antics.
The attention-grabbing little bird, kitted out in its summer plumage, can be seen spreading its wings and heating up its bottom in the sun before diving for tasty morsels. It’s just one of the many magical and surprising moments visitors can expect as they take time to explore the 105 acre nature reserve and get closer to wildlife.
They can also meet the Centre’s three new arrivals, the Cape Barrens geese. The sweet-natured sibling threesome are just five months old and have travelled from WWT’s reserve in Martin Mere. Settling in well, the rare, affable birds are a cuteness overload not to be missed.
Endemic to Australia, these birds have the unusual ability to drink saltwater, assisting in their offshore lifestyle. They also represent a huge success story for the species which was brought back from the brink of extinction, as a result of overhunting, thanks to conservation efforts.
Kids, aged 7+, have the extra special opportunity to join the reserve for Bat Walks every Thursday throughout August. The two hour experience, starting at 8pm, invites young nature-lovers on a nocturnal adventure to spot the iconic animals – in one of London’s bat hotspots.
Taking place by moonlight, this after-dark experience is just £25 per child, with an accompanying adult going free, and even ends with marshmallows around the campfire.
Finally, those in search of a space to stretch the imagination, find inspiration, and try out illustration can take part in the Centre’s Wednesday Arts Workshops throughout August.
The expert-led workshops are free and aimed at all ages and abilities. They include wildlife drawing with artist Laura Cuppage, ‘Wild Wetland Beast’ illustration with prize-winning illustrator Tom Sears, and clay modelling with sculptor Jane Muir.
Visitors can also take full advantage of WWT’s partnership with world-famous illustrator, Quentin Blake, by picking up his illustrated guide and exploring the Drawn to Water summer trail.
Acting Centre Manager, Ruth Thomas, said: “Londoners on the lookout for a boost of creativity, connection and joy should look no further than London Wetland Centre this summer.
“With wetlands scientifically proven to boost mental health, there’s no better place to get creative than in our glorious nature reserve, blooming with life.
“Visitors will leave feeling inspired and revitalised by our Quentin Blake: Drawn to Water trail and activities. It’s the perfect tonic to the hustle, bustle and heat of city life.”
