Titchfield Haven National Nature Reserve

undefined, Solent News

Titchfield Haven National Nature Reserve occupies the former tidal estuary of the River Meon at Hill Head, where a sea wall built in the seventeenth century transformed the inlet into freshwater and brackish wetland. The reserve covers around 150 hectares of reedbeds, scrapes, lagoons, wet meadows, and coastal habitats, making it one of the most important wetland sites in Hampshire. The reserve is a key site for breeding, migrating, and overwintering birds. Breeding species include Cetti's warbler, bearded tit, and water rail, while passage migrants in spring and autumn bring a wide variety of waders and terns. In winter, large numbers of wildfowl gather on the lagoons. The reserve is also home to water voles, otters, and a rich invertebrate fauna. Managed by Hampshire County Council, the reserve has a visitor centre, a network of footpaths, and several birdwatching hides positioned around the scrapes and lagoons. Access is from Cliff Road in Hill Head. The surrounding coastline, with its shingle beach and views across the Solent, adds to the appeal for walkers and naturalists.