Eskmeals Dunes SSSI
The broad sweep of the estuary is a valuable feeding area for birds at all times of year. Wading birds such as curlew and oystercatcher can be seen probing the mud for aquatic snails, shellfish and worms, whilst the more stately grey heron stands motionless in the shallows waiting to 'harpoon' small fish with its spear-like bill. A flash of sapphire blue signals the rapid flight of a kingfisher. These brilliantly coloured birds drop from the air to snatch small fish from the water. In the winter, other birds such as wigeon and goldeneye arrive from further north to feed.
For more information on this and other coastal reserves in the area visit the website of Cumbria Wildlife Trust