NATURE ESCAPES
DAY OUT: Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve, Lincolnshire
GIBRALTAR’S GENTLE GRAZERS
Highland ponies are the newest addition to the conservation team at this east-coast reserve, where spring orchids bloom lilac among the blue lagoons and sandy dunes, says Susie Kearley
Just south of Skegness on Lincolnshire’s wild coast is Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve, a glorious mixed habitat of sandy beaches, wildflower meadows and freshwater lagoons.
The Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust allows ponies to graze here for conservation. They selectively munch on coarse vegetation, ignoring delicate wildflowers such as the southern marsh-orchid and eyebright. As a result, these species are thriving.
Gibraltar Point is an amazing place to visit in June because the wildflowers are in bloom, but it’s also a good place to see foxes, falcons and wading birds. You may spot little terns fishing in the shallow lagoons and hear the songs of skylarks. Facilities include wildlife-viewing platforms, well-graded walking trails, bird hides, a café and accessible loos.
Susie Kearley enjoys wildlife photography and country walks.