A WIRRAL nature reserve is gearing up for its most exciting time of the year - the homecoming of flocks of birds.

The Dee Estuary will welcome birds returning from their Arctic breeding grounds and are inviting visitors to take part in events across the reserve to share the impressive natural spectacles.

Visitor experience manager for RSPB Dee Estuary nature reserve Dan Trotman said: “I’m a huge fan of autumn, it could even be my favorite season of the year.

"The reserve here comes into its own, supporting thousands of wetland birds as they swap the cold Arctic for our warmer climes.

"High tides make for some excellent wildlife watching too, pushing the vast swathes of wildfowl and wading birds into closer view along with the birds of prey that hunt them.”

On Saturday, October 21 visitors can take part in ‘Autumn Arrivals’ at RSPB Point of Ayr near Talacre.

A short guided walk follows a surfaced path along the sea wall from Talacre to the hide overlooking the reserve.

Visitors seeking help with identifying birds such as ducks, geese and wading birds can enjoy ‘Wetland Wonders, Wildfowl and Waders’ on Sunday, October 22 for a guided walk around the trails with tips on learning to identify these birds.

With earlier sunsets it is easier to witness the daily spectacle of northern England’s largest little egret colony flying in from the marsh to their night-time roost.

To celebrate this wild wonder families are invited to go wild this half term with a Halloween-themed ‘Creatures of the Night” trail to follow around the reserve’s surfaced paths.

The trail is free of charge and runs from Monday, October 23 to Friday, November 3 between 9.30am and 3.30pm.

To experience the autumn tidal phenomenon drop in on ‘High Tide Raptor Watch’ events on Sunday 5 and Monday, November 6 at the Old Baths car park on Parkgate promenade.

Dan added: “You don’t have to be an avid birdwatcher to appreciate the vast numbers of birds that call the Dee their home at this time of year.

"These upcoming events are planned to showcase these awesome natural occurrences and show why it’s so important for the RSPB to keep almost half of the estuary under its protection.

"These spectacles are perfect to wow families, and kids will love kicking fallen leaves and a bit of den building at Burton Mere Wetlands.

"So pop on an extra layer or two, and come along, we’d love to see you.”

For further information on events and wildlife at RSPB Dee Estuary, visit rspb.org.uk/deeestuary