Record numbers of breeding sand martins at Seaton Wetlands
East Devon Distrct Council says it's marked a major milestone after an artificial cliff was built for this purpose
Around 15% of all Sand Martins ringed in the UK this year have been at Seaton Wetlands in Devon.
From March through September, the Axe Estuary Ringing Group carried out weekly monitoring throughout the breeding season. Their data revealed nearly 90 breeding pairs producing 123 broods and over 500 chicks.
East Devon Distrct Council says it's marked a major milestone, as since their adoption of the purpose-built artificial cliff in 2023, Sand Martins have flourished, transforming the site into a thriving hub of activity.
Originally constructed in 2013, the artificial cliff was designed to attract a colony of Sand Martins and encourage breeding. After a decade of anticipation, the site finally welcomed its first nesting pairs in 2023.
Sand Martins are among the first migratory birds to arrive in the UK each spring, often producing up to two broods before migrating to Africa in late summer.
Councillor Richard Jefferies, Portfolio Holder for Environment – Nature & Climate, said: “This is another fantastic achievement for our Countryside team and a testament to their dedication to wildlife conservation in East Devon. Not only is it a triumph for nature, but it also offers visitors from across the country the chance to witness this incredible spectacle first-hand.”
Countryside Manager, James Chubb, added: “This success truly shows that patience and persistence pay off. Just three years after the Sand Martins’ arrival, the colony continues to grow each year. I’m delighted that our artificial cliff now provides a safe and secure nesting habitat that is making a real difference to the wider Sand Martin population.”
Doug Rudge, Licensed Bird Ringer with the Axe Estuary Ringing Group, said: “It has been an excellent first ringing season - with so many birds tagged this year we have laid solid foundations for the scientific study of these amazing birds for many years to come. We’re already looking forward to next spring to see how many of ‘our’ bird’s return.”
Visitors are encouraged to experience this natural wonder for themselves during next year’s breeding season from March onwards.
From March onwards, guests can watch the Sand Martins in flight or enjoy live nest footage over a cup of tea at the Discovery Hut.