Caerlaverock nature reserve to shut until spring next year

A nature reserve in southern Scotland has taken the “difficult decision” to close to the public until the spring.

The Wildfowl and Wetland Trust (WWT) Caerlaverock site on the Solway Firth said it was not in a position to “offer visitors the experience that they expect”.

The centre introduced a reduced visitor experience in early November, to make physical changes to the site, as well as begin staff restructuring.

It said it had tried its best to remain open to offer the “very best experience” but had been unable to fulfil that and had now taken the decision to close on 21 December.

The WWT said the temporary closure would allow for recruitment of a new team, improvements to the reserve and general maintenance works.

The winter months are historically a busy time of the year for bird watchers to the site, who visit the centre to witness the migration of flocks of barnacle geese.

Thousands of the birds migrate from Svalbard, in the Arctic Circle, to overwinter at the reserve.

They join many other birds including whooper and mute swans.

The WWT said: ”We understand – and share – the disappointment that this will cause to everyone who spends time with us at WWT Caerlaverock.

”And we are particularly sorry to be closing at a time when we know you love to come and experience the wildlife spectacles that winter brings with it.”

The centre will shut on 21 December and although the trust has not confirmed an opening date, it has said it would reopen in spring 2026.