Beyond the Boat: Protecting Our Winter Visitors

As the summer season transitions into autumn, the Exe Estuary undergoes a breathtaking transformation. Our sheltered waters and mudflats that make for year long smooth sailing, prepare to welcome tens of thousands of migratory birds, completing extraordinary journeys of up to 3,000 miles from their Arctic breeding grounds.

For these exhausted travelers, the Exe is a crucial winter sanctuary. Designated as a Special Protection Area, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and a wetland of international importance, the estuary supports more than 20,000 birds every single winter. That almost doubles the population of Exmouth every winter!

However, surviving the winter requires more than just a place to land – it requires absolute peace.

Why the Wildlife Refuges Matter

To ensure these birds can rest, feed, and conserve (and rebuild) their precious energy reserves, our winter visitors need peace, which is where the annual wildlife refuge on the Exe Estuary comes in. The refuges runs from 15 September to 31 December at Exmouth, while the Dawlish Warren refuge remains protected all year round. But why are these refuges important?

After flying thousands of miles, species like the Dark-bellied Brent Geese, Wigeon, Dunlin, and Avocet rely heavily on these specific zones. For instance, the Exmouth refuge protects vital eelgrass beds that serve as an essential winter food source for Brent Geese and Wigeon. When birds are repeatedly disturbed, they are forced to take flight, burning vital calories they desperately need to survive the cold months and prepare for the return journey to their breeding grounds.

Cllr Geoff Jung, Chair of the South East Devon Habitat Regulations Executive Committee and East Devon District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Environment – Operational, highlights the significance of this seasonal spectacle:

“The arrival of thousands of birds on the Exe Estuary is one of Devon’s great wildlife spectacles. After travelling such extraordinary distances, they need safe, undisturbed places to rest and feed. By keeping out of the wildlife refuges, visitors can make a real difference.”

Enjoying the Estuary Responsibly

Safeguarding this globally important habitat is a community effort. Everyone who enjoys the water or walks the coastline can play a part by keeping dogs under control, picking up after them, staying on designated paths, and giving feeding or resting birds plenty of space.

As an independent family business operating on these waters for decades, we care deeply about protecting the delicate ecosystem that makes our home so special. Speaking about our commitment to the estuary, Jake Stuart notes:

“Every autumn and winter on our guided birdwatching cruises, our passengers are captivated by the sheer abundance of wildlife that visits the Exe Estuary. Protecting the vital feeding grounds at Exmouth and Dawlish Warren is something we care deeply about as an independent family business. We are proud to support efforts that encourage water users to give birds the space they need.”

For those who want to experience the magnificent birdlife of the Exe up close without disturbing the protected zones, our guided birdwatching cruises offer a fantastic, low-impact, up close perspective from the water. Our big, brightly colour boat acts as a floating, mobile hide!

By giving the birds the space they need on the shore and mudflats, we can all help ensure the Exe Estuary remains a thriving haven for wildlife for generations to come. Thank you to you all for giving the space the birds need.