Big Waters

UK Wildlife Trusts

Big Waters is a nature reserve located in Tyne and Wear, England, featuring a pond formed by former mine workings and designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The reserve comprises open water, reedbed, and wet woodland, with a variety of habitats including fen, carr, and meadow. Managed by Northumberland Wildlife Trust, it offers facilities such as hides, a bird feeding station, and raised boardwalks for visitors to enjoy the diverse wildlife. Wildlife enthusiasts can expect to see a range of species, particularly in January when sightings peak for American Wigeon, Iceland Gull, and Eurasian Tree Sparrow. The best time for observing these birds is typically around 15:00 for wigeon and 17:00 for tree sparrows. Other notable species include Teal in March and various butterflies in the summer months. The reserve also supports wintering wildfowl and is a vital roosting site for swallows during autumn migration.

Managed by

UK Wildlife Trusts

Location

NE13 7EG