Bee fly sightings are on the increase around site and we can’t get enough of these quirky looking insects. With their fuzzy bodies, patterned wings and unusually long proboscis (or tongue), they can be found basking in sunny spots or feeding on flowers
9 May 2023
Regionally important birdlife is being given a survival boost thanks to new anti-flood measures at Washington Wetland Centre.
27 April 2023
For many of our visitors who enjoy a trip down to Hawthorn Wood Hide, the European nuthatch, with its pointed beak, bold black eye stripe and rufous flanks hopping effortlessly headfirst down the trunks of trees is a much-loved sight. With its agile cl
24 April 2023
Become a Duck Detective, take part in a pond dip, look for nature and more this Easter!
30 March 2023
Families across the North East can put their outdoor sleuthing skills to the test this Easter, with the ALL NEW Duck Detectives trail at WWT Washington Wetland Centre.Get close to nature and have fun exploring together, as you follow the clues around our
22 March 2023
How to tell the difference between toad and frog spawn Amphibians are a group of small vertebrates that are defined by a very special set of adaptations. Frogs, toads, newts and salamanders are all part of this group. Amphibians all need water, or damp
21 March 2023
Where would the natural world be without mothers? Without their protective instincts, their self-sacrifice, their love? This Mother’s Day we pay homage to some wetland superstar mams and of course, give thanks to the ultimate maternal figure looking
17 March 2023
Mud is a miracle.Bugs and mini-beasts live in it. Birds and insects make their homes and eat from it. And at WWT Washington’s ALL NEW Mudfest event this February half-term, families across the North East can find out just how much fun they can have with
16 February 2023
Mud is a miracle. Bugs and mini-beasts live in it. Birds and insects make their homes from it. And at WWT Washington’s ALL NEW Mudfest this February half-term, families across the North East can find out just how much fun they can have with it! Come
2 February 2023
Washington Wetland Centre is asking the public to be its ‘eyes and ears’ as it works to help protect the red-listed willow tit...Citizen scientists are needed to help WWT Washington save the UK’s fastest declining resident bird species. Our team
26 January 2023
By Kate Ferguson, reserve warden A prehistoric-sounding squawk echoes across the river as a large shadow flies overhead, stick in beak, and scattering lapwing everywhere. It’s a majestic grey heron, returning from a trip to gather nesting material fr
19 January 2023
Winter truly is a most wonderful time of year for wetlands. They are dramatic and changeable. Wild, watery and full of life. There’s no better place to soak in nature. So after the bustle of the festive period and with a new year sretching out ahead,
8 January 2023
More than 150 children across the North East will receive an extra special festive gift this year, thanks to WWT Washington’s Elf Academy graduates. The donated presents form part of the wetland centre’s annual Christmas event, which sees youngster
20 December 2022
Getting out and about in nature can be particularly rewarding after a busy few weeks of Christmas shopping, parties and family gatherings - so don't forget to plan in your down-time! Here's our 'top 5' things to do during a visit to Washington Wetland C
18 December 2022
A Chilean flamingo from the flock at Washington Wetland Centre has defied odds after undergoing medical procedure. Our team of keepers alongside WWT veterinarian, Julian Keleş, noticed during a routine check that 'TAX', a 40 year old Chilean flamingo, h
13 December 2022