Exploring the Wildlife in the Lake District: A Nature Lover’s Guide

Nestled between the rolling hills of Cumbria and the glistening waters of its iconic lakes, the Lake District is one of England’s most breathtaking corners. With its diverse landscapes –  including lakes, woodlands, mountains, and wetlands – the region is home to an extraordinary array of wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

From the ancient forests where red squirrels scurry through the canopy to the tranquil shores where otters glide through the water, the Lake District offers a fantastic opportunity to observe Britain’s native species in their natural habitat. In this guide, we’ll uncover the park’s most iconic wildlife, highlight the best places to spot them, and reveal the perfect times of year to visit for an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Whether you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of a soaring osprey, listen to the calls of songbirds in the woodlands, or watch red deer grazing in the misty valleys, the Lake District is brimming with opportunities for wildlife encounters. So, pack your binoculars, lace up your boots, and prepare to be wowed by the beauty of this remarkable national park.

Birdwatching in the Lake District

Birdwatchers flock to the Lake District for its rich avian population. Many species, from common garden birds to rare raptors, can be observed throughout the year. One of the most celebrated species is the osprey, a magnificent bird of prey that has been successfully reintroduced to the area. The best place to see these spectacular fish-eating birds is Bassenthwaite Lake, where they nest from April to September.

Another iconic bird is the red kite, easily identifiable by its reddish-brown plumage and distinctive forked tail. Thanks to conservation efforts, these majestic birds have made a remarkable comeback and can often be spotted soaring over the fells.

For those who enjoy waterbirds, Derwentwater and Windermere provide excellent viewing opportunities. Here, you might encounter tufted ducks, great crested grebes, and the elegant goosander. In the winter months, whooper swans migrate from Iceland to grace the lakes with their presence.

The Lake District is also home to some of the UK’s most endangered species, including the pied flycatcher and the wood warbler, both of which thrive in the ancient oak woodlands of Borrowdale and Duddon Valley. 

Marsh harriers can sometimes be spotted hunting over wetlands, while the elusive nightjar can be heard churring on warm summer nights in remote heathlands. Peregrine falcons, known for their incredible speed, nest on the rugged cliffs and rocky outcrops, making them a thrilling sight for birdwatchers.

Mammals of the Lake District

While the Lake District may not be home to large predators, it still supports an impressive variety of mammals. The red squirrel, a true icon of British wildlife, finds refuge in the region’s ancient woodlands. Unlike much of England, where grey squirrels have displaced them, the Lake District remains a stronghold for these charming creatures. Grizedale Forest and Whinlatter Forest are particularly good locations for spotting red squirrels.

Otters, once on the brink of extinction in Britain, have made a triumphant return to the rivers and lakes of the Lake District. Though elusive, patient wildlife watchers may be rewarded with glimpses of these sleek and playful mammals along the River Derwent and Ullswater’s shores. Fell ponies, a breed native to the region, roam freely across the fells. These hardy ponies have been part of the Lake District landscape for centuries and continue to be an integral part of its cultural heritage.

Badgers, though nocturnal and rarely seen, are common throughout the region. These burrowing mammals live in setts within the woodlands and are particularly active in the spring and summer months. Roe deer and red deer are also present, the latter more commonly found in the remote valleys and high fells. Autumn is the best time to witness the red deer rut, a dramatic spectacle of nature as stags compete for dominance.

The Lake District is also home to more elusive species, such as the pine marten, which has been slowly making a comeback in the region. These shy, arboreal mammals are rarely seen but are known to inhabit the remote woodlands of the park. Bats, including the common pipistrelle and the larger noctule, come out at dusk to hunt insects over lakes and rivers.

The Lake District’s Insect Life

While mammals and birds often steal the limelight, the Lake District also boasts a fascinating array of insect life. The region is particularly notable for its butterflies, with species such as the pearl-bordered fritillary and the high brown fritillary making their home in the park. Summer visitors can enjoy vibrant displays of these beautiful insects in meadows and woodland clearings.

Dragonflies and damselflies thrive in the wetlands and tarns, particularly around the Borrowdale Valley and Rydal Water. The common hawker, one of Britain’s largest dragonflies, can frequently be seen patrolling these waters.

The Lake District is also an important habitat for bees and other pollinators. Wildflower meadows provide an abundance of nectar for species such as the bilberry bumblebee and the red-tailed bumblebee. Many native plants, including heather, foxgloves, and bluebells, rely on these industrious insects for pollination.

Moths, often overlooked compared to butterflies, are also diverse in the region. The emperor moth, with its striking eye-like markings, is a highlight for enthusiasts, while the cinnabar moth, with its bold red and black colouring, is commonly seen flitting through grasslands.

Beetles, including the rare net-winged beetle and the violet ground beetle, can be found in the region’s woodlands, while glow-worms create a magical spectacle in the summer months as they emit a soft green glow to attract mates. The combination of diverse habitats makes the Lake District a haven for insect life, contributing to the park’s overall biodiversity.

Amphibians and Reptiles

The Lake District’s cool, damp environment provides the perfect habitat for amphibians. The common frog and common toad are widespread, while the palmate newt is frequently spotted in upland tarns. In contrast, reptiles are more elusive, but lucky visitors might spot a basking adder on a sunlit heathland or a common lizard darting through the undergrowth.

Best Wildlife Walks in the Lake District

To fully appreciate the Lake District’s wildlife, taking to the trails is the best approach. Several walks stand out for their outstanding biodiversity:

• The Ullswater Way: A 20-mile circular route around Ullswater, offering the chance to see red deer, ospreys, and otters along the way.
• Grizedale Forest Trails: Ideal for spotting red squirrels, woodpeckers, and a variety of butterflies during the warmer months.
• Borrowdale Valley Walk: A haven for birdwatchers, with opportunities to see peregrine falcons, kestrels, and ravens.
• Haweswater Reservoir: Home to England’s only remaining golden eagle until recently, this area is still rich in wildlife, including red deer and badgers.
• Ennerdale Valley: One of the most remote and unspoiled areas, providing a chance to see rare species such as the ring ouzel and the pied flycatcher.

Conservation Efforts in the Lake District

The Lake District has long been at the forefront of British conservation efforts. Organisations such as the National Trust, Cumbria Wildlife Trust, and the RSPB work tirelessly to protect the region’s biodiversity. Projects include habitat restoration, rewilding initiatives, and conservation breeding programmes.

One of the most notable conservation successes is the reintroduction of ospreys, which had been extinct in England for over 150 years. The RSPB has established a protected nesting site at Bassenthwaite Lake, allowing these birds to flourish once more.

Additionally, the ongoing efforts to support red squirrel populations involve controlling grey squirrel numbers and planting native trees to provide suitable habitats.

Tips for Watching Wildlife in the Lake District

When to Visit for the Best Wildlife Viewing

While the Lake District is a year-round destination, certain seasons offer unique wildlife experiences.

• Spring: This season brings the arrival of migratory birds, the emergence of butterflies, and the birth of red deer calves. Woodland walks are particularly rewarding as bluebells carpet the forest floors.
• Summer: Ideal for spotting dragonflies, damselflies, and butterflies. Ospreys are highly active, hunting fish for their chicks.
• Autumn: Red deer rutting season is a spectacular sight, with stags engaging in dramatic battles for dominance. The changing foliage also provides a stunning backdrop for wildlife photography.
• Winter: As snow blankets the fells, the Lake District transforms into a magical landscape. Winter visitors can enjoy sightings of whooper swans, fieldfares, and redwings. Otters are also more visible during this time as they hunt in the rivers.

Responsible Wildlife Watching

Respecting wildlife and its habitat is paramount when exploring the Lake District. Here are a few tips to ensure responsible wildlife watching:

• Maintain a respectful distance from animals, using binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens.
• Stick to designated trails to avoid disturbing fragile ecosystems.
• Refrain from feeding wild animals, as this can alter their natural behaviours.
• Follow the Countryside Code by keeping dogs on leads and disposing of litter responsibly.

Summary

The Lake District is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Its diverse landscapes provide a home for an astonishing variety of wildlife, from soaring ospreys to elusive otters. Whether you are exploring quiet woodlands, trekking across rugged fells, or watching dragonflies dance over tranquil tarns, the Lake District promises unforgettable encounters with nature. By visiting responsibly and supporting conservation efforts, you can help ensure that this spectacular region remains a haven for wildlife for generations to come.

Interested in exploring the wildlife in the Lake District? Leisure Resorts has plenty of luxury holiday homes in the heart of the Lakes at our Ullswater Heights Lodge Park. Sat amongst beautiful stretches of greenery, our holiday homes have decking, hot tubs and plenty of activities on-site for you to enjoy.