Snettisham Nature Reserve

Set against the backdrop of The Wash, RSPB Snettisham is a true wilderness of mudflats, saltmarsh and saline lagoons. Each year, thousands of visitors come here to view one of the world’s most famous wading bird spectacles as large colonies of red knot and other wading birds are pushed inland during rising tides. The best time to experience the whirling waders is on a high spring tide from late July to November when red knot numbers are in their peak.

Overwintering pink-footed geese provide another unmissable experience as they leave their mudflat roost in the early morning light and fly inland to feed.  November through to January are ideal months to witness the pinkies fly in formation against the amazing orange of a Norfolk dawn. Their iconic winking call can be heard across the saltmarsh as they search for winter stubble and fields of sugar beet tops.