Exe Estuary Wildlife Refuge at Exmouth

The Exmouth Wildlife Refuge protects a large eelgrass (Zostera spp.) bed on mudflats within Exmouth Local Nature Reserve, stretching from the Duck Pond, up towards Lympstone. Eelgrass is the main food plant for over-wintering species such as Dark-bellied Brent Geese and Widgeon, and is the most nutritionally dense food these species can consume.

To ensure that birds are able to access these winter feeding grounds undisturbed, we ask that everyone avoid entering the Exmouth Refuge between September 15^th and December 31^st at all tidal states.

Brent Geese have arrived – Their 3000 mile flight takes them south and west, following the migratory super-highway down the Baltic coast. The journey is broken by familiar rest stops; marshland, coastal grassland or suitable farmland on which to roost and feed.

To access the foreshore from the Imperial Recreation Grounds during Refuge season, please use the slipway, heading straight out or turning left at the bottom of the ramp. Please see signs on site to help you understand this protected conservation area.