An opportunity to see Sandwich Tern and potentially Little Tern that should just be arriving on the NNR from their wintering grounds. April is also a good time to see passage waders stopping off on the NNR to refuel before heading further north. The walk will be led by Louise Samson, Biodiversity Warden, DEFA and she will guide you through the dune grassland looking out for passage Wheatear, resident Curlew, Stonechat, Skylark and Meadow Pipits. This will be an opportunity to see early purple orchids.
Meeting location: Manx Wildlife Trust, Ayres NNR Nature Discovery Centre
Grid reference: NX 43515 03830
W3W: succumbed.shameless.overhear
Please wear suitable walking shoes and bring binoculars if you have them. You will be walking approximately 2.5km (1.5 miles) on shingle beach and dune grassland. It’s flat, easy walking but the ground may be uneven in places so unfortunately, this walk is not suitable for wheelchair users. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by a parent/guardian (children are the responsibility of the parent/guardian for the duration of the event).
Sorry, no dogs allowed.
Numbers limited to 15, so please book a free place by emailing ecopolicy@gov.im
This event will be cancelled if rain or strong winds are forecast.
If you’re not able to make the walk but would like to find out more about the Ayres NNR and the wildlife that lives there, then please see the Biosphere Ayres NNR resources web page: https://www.biosphere.im/resources/ayres-national-nature-reserve-. Keep up to date with what’s happening on the NNR by checking the regular updates.


Photo credit: Louise Samson