Kempton Nature Reserve
From Londonbirders
Kempton Nature Reserve is an internationally important wetland created by Thames Water. What was once a decommissioned reservoir is now a Special Protection Area for ducks and was notified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 2000 for its international importance for wintering gadwall. This peaceful, wildlife haven attracts more than 150 species of bird, some very rare in the UK. Access to this site is through the Friends of Kempton Nature Reserve scheme.
Wildlife Encouraged - The reserve has deep-water areas with reed fringes, extensive areas of mud attractive to wading birds and a network of channels and islands that are safe nesting refuges for birds. The scrape area holds water during the winter, and exposes bare mud when levels are dropped through the summer. These shallow mud areas provide an ideal foraging habitat for waders such as green sandpiper, snipe and lapwing. The islands provide nesting areas for birds such as the little ringed plover which breed on the reserve.
Species You Might See - Visitors have been lucky enough to see species such as great white egret, spoonbill, garganey, marsh harrier and osprey as well as more usual birds such as grey heron, shoveler, gadwall, kestrel, lapwing, kingfisher, green woodpecker and cuckoo. The first pair of avocets to breed inland in the UK for 150 years nested here in 1996.
Friends of Kempton Nature Reserve - Owing to the sensitivity of the wildlife using the site, it is not possible to open the nature reserve for general public access. However our Friends of Kempton Nature Reserve Scheme enables members to access the reserve, and currently over 350 members are enjoying the special wildlife.
A path network links the car park to two bird hides and other view points, some of it accessible to wheelchair users. As well as the use of these bird hides, members also have the opportunity to attend special events such as guided bird song and bat walks, and help with the practical conservation management of the reserve through wildlife monitoring and volunteer task days. You will also receive newsletters and regular information on wildlife sightings.
Join Us! - To become a member, please contact Kempton Nature Reserve's manager or download our application form and membership conditions at [1]
Kempton Nature Reserve Manager, Kempton Nature Reserve, Kempton Park Water Treatment Works, Feltham Hill Road, Feltham, Middlesex, TW13 6XH.
Telephone: 02086226563 Mobile: 07747 640361
How To Get There - Kempton Nature Reserve is located within the London Borough of Hounslow, to the east of the elevated section of the A316. Access to the Nature Reserve and visitor car park can be found off Nallhead Road, next to Lindon-Bennett School. Access to this site is through the Friends of Kempton Nature Reserve Scheme only.
Nearest Bus Stops – Nallhead Road H25, 290 Nearest Train Stations - Kempton Park, Hampton
