Winterton Dunes NNR
Winterton Dunes NNR covers some 110 Hectares comprising is an extensive dune system. The dunes are strangely more similar to the dunes of the Baltic - which support acidic plant communities - rather than the dunes on the North Norfolk Coast - where the sand is calcareous.
Wldlife Highlights: There is a colony of Grey seals on the beaches. The best time to see them is December and January when around 100 pups are usually born.
A wide range of both breeding and over-wintering birds are found here with 170 species being recorded. Little terns breed on the site together with stonechat, nightjar and ringed plover. Marsh harriers hunt in the area and the rare Montagu's harrier has also been sighted here.
Natterjack toads breed in shallow pools behind the main ridge which also supports smooth and crested newts. A number of dragonfly species use the pools including the Norfolk and common hawker.
Over 110 species of moth have been recorded on the site including the rare pigmy footman, fenn's wainscot and pyralid. Butterfly species include grayling and dark green fritillary.
Access & Location: By car, access to the reserve is via the B1159. The nearest car park is on the beach front at Winterton-on-Sea. Toilets and refreshments are available at Wintern on Sea.
A public footpath crosses the length of the reserve and interpretation panels are provided for visitor information.
Image of Seals at Play at Winterton-on-Sea - Copyright Dr Sharif Islam.
These maps are intended as a guideline only; you must check the exact location of the reserve yourself. Wildlife Extra assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or usefulness of the information on this website.
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