11 Mar 2026
Seaton Wetlands

East Devon District Council’s Countryside team are celebrating a vibrant start to Spring, launching a packed programme of events and stepping up preparations for the busy bird‑breeding season.

Despite a challenging winter of heavy rains, flooding, and storm‑damaged trees, the team’s enthusiasm for getting “Spring Ready” has never wavered. They are delighted to unveil a diverse events programme featuring much‑loved favourites such as Willow Weaving, the return of Guided Bat and Nightjar Walks, and Spring Crafts sessions which are already close to being sell-outs. Families can also enjoy the ever‑popular Spring Nature Trail at Seaton Wetlands, offering a fun and engaging way to explore the outdoors.

Sunset at Trinity Hill LNR - Guided Nightjar Walk

Seasonal highlights that are set to draw crowds once again, include the Seaton Wetlands Mother’s Day Cream Tea; an event which proved a major success last year and the bustling annual Cake and Tea Bluebell Afternoon at Holyford Woods Local Nature Reserve.

Alongside community events, vital conservation work is well underway in anticipation of Spring bird migration and breeding. The team has been clearing out Kestrel and Sand Martin nest boxes, ensuring safe and welcoming spaces for returning birds. Over the winter, the artificial cliff nesting site received essential maintenance to ensure it is ready for what is hoped to be another excellent breeding year. With nearly 90 breeding pairs successfully raising more than 500 chicks last spring, the team is looking forward to another remarkable season for this charismatic species.

Sand Martin Cliff

Councillor Richard Jefferies, Portfolio Holder for Environment – Nature & Climate, said “It’s wonderful to see such energy and preparation going into the start of Spring. The Countryside Team’s work not only supports our valuable wildlife during the crucial breeding season but also strengthens the connection our communities have with the natural spaces around them. Events like these bring people together, encourage wellbeing, and showcase the incredible landscapes we are fortunate to have here in East Devon. We’re delighted to see so many opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy, learn, and appreciate the importance of conserving these special habitats for future generations.”

Countryside Manager, James Chubb, added: “Spring is always one of the most exciting times of the year for the Countryside Team. Our events programme is packed with opportunities for people of all ages to connect with nature, and we’re thrilled to welcome visitors back for another vibrant season. Equally important is the work happening behind the scenes. From preparing and maintaining specialist habitats like the Sand Martin cliff or creating water vole lawns on the bankside of ponds, these efforts ensure that our wildlife gets the best possible start to the breeding season. The results speak for themselves each year, and we’re hopeful that this spring will be our most successful yet.”

Members of the public are invited to explore East Devon Countryside’s full Spring Events Programme by visiting the Wild East Devon website. This season is also the perfect time to experience the award‑winning Seaton Wetlands nature reserve, where visitors can enjoy live nest‑camera footage at the Discovery Hut and unwind in the peaceful surroundings with a refreshing drink.