Fontburn

There is a Conservation Area immediately north of the reservoir which consists of scrub, wet areas and woodland. 

This is an extremely pleasant walk in spring. Scan the reservoir for cormorant, canada goose, waders and wagtails. and there is always the chance of passage osprey (main pic) as the lake is stocked with rainbow trout.The footpath passes areas of wetland, scrub and grassland which attracts a variety of birds and insect life, before entering woodland where the visitor will find redstart and a few pied flycatcher. Red squirrel are also here along with reptiles such as adder, slow worm and common lizard. Amphibians; common frog, common toad, smooth newt, palmate newt, and great crested newt .

Scan the moorlands for birds of prey which can produce hen harrier at nearby Harwood in winter.

Birds you may hear at Fontburn

Fontburn is best visited in April / May where songbirds will be vocal and therefore easier to see. All common woodland birds are joined in spring by summer visitors including Pied flycatcher and Common redstart.