Discover the Wonder of Spring at Wicken Fen

Wicken Fen's wardens will lead visitors on a walk of discovery to experience the early sights and sounds of spring at Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve on Sunday 22 March.

Drawing on their intimate knowledge of the Fen, Wicken's experienced team of Wardens will lead visitors on a walk around the ancient Sedge Fen, exploring the sedge fields, fen meadows, woodland and waterways whilst listening out for the call of early summer migrants such as Chiffchaff's.

The ancient sedge fen is a unique remnant of undrained fenland created around 5000 years ago when rising sea levels led too much of the lowlands of East Anglia becoming waterlogged. Whilst most of the surrounding landscape has been drained for intensive agriculture, Wicken Fen is home to over 8000 species of flora and fauna.

Head Warden, Martin Lester said: "There are signs all over of the Fen of trees and shrubs bursting into life to herald the arrival of spring. It is very satisfying to share our unique knowledge of the fen with our visitors".

Tickets for the Spring Guided Walk on Sunday 22 March at 10.30 are available from the Wicken Fen Visitor Centre on 01353 720274, cost £6 adults & £3 for children.

Wicken Fen hosts a packed programme of walks and events throughout the year. Details can be found in the Wicken Fen Events leaflet available from the Wicken Fen Visitor Centre on 01353 720274 or online at www.wicken.org.uk

Ends

Notes to Editors
1. Wicken Fen was purchased by the National Trust in 1899, the first Nature Reserve owned by the Trust.
2. This year Wicken Fen is celebrating it's 110th anniversary and the 10th anniversary of the Wicken Fen Vision, an ambitious 100 year project by the National Trust to create a 56 sq km 'green lung' for Cambridgeshire and the East of England and will involve the Trust acquiring approximately 5600 hectares of farmland which will be managed for nature conservation. The Trust aims to re-establish a mosaic of fenland habitats helping to protect many threatened and endangered species of wildlife whilst attracting new species to the area. The reserve will also significantly enhance public access to the countryside for leisure, recreation, exercise and education.
3. The National Trust is Europe's biggest conservation organisation and looks after special places across England, Wales and Northern Ireland for ever, for everyone. People and places are at the heart of everything it does. 3.5 million members, 50,000 volunteers, 500,000 school children, and millions of visitors, donors and supporters help the Trust look after its 300 historic houses and gardens, 700 miles of coastline and 250,000 hectares of open countryside. www.nationaltrust.org.uk.