One of our newest reserves, Swangey Fen was kindly gifted to NWT by the Otter Trust in 2009.
Otters do occur at the site, though they are unlikely to be seen. Areas of open fen are managed on a two-year cutting cycle to maintain its species-rich habitat. Numerous interesting fen plants are found, including milk parsley, bog pimpernel, saw-sedge and adder’s tongue.
Adder’s tongue
This scarce species of fern is found in ancient grasslands and along woodland rides. It is short and unobtrusive with an oval frond and a single spore-bearing spike from which it gets its name. In previous centuries the plant was revered by herbalists as a cure for snake bites and various other conditions.
Access
Swangey Fen is approximately 3.2km (2 miles) southwest of Attleborough, accessed off Fen Street west of the A11.
Visitor access is by guided group tour only. Enquiries - call our main office on 01603 625540
Spring
Bird - Sedge warbler, blackcap, common buzzard, reed bunting, marsh tit
Insects - Speckled wood
Summer
Birds - Sedge warbler, reed bunting, marsh tit, common buzzard, blackcap
Plants - Milk parsley, adder’s tongue, black bog rush
Insects - Painted lady, blacktailed skimmer, emperor dragonfly
Autumn
Birds - Sedge warbler, blackcap, common buzzard, reed bunting, marsh tit
Mammals - Red deer, muntjac, otter
Insects - Ruddy darter
Winter
Birds - Fieldfare, redwing, treecreeper
Mammals - Red deer, muntjac, otter