The Kingfisher breeding season is fast approaching!

Last year we were delighted to see two active pairs, and despite the drama of losing a male from the hub pair we still successfully fledged 4 broods. So, we are keen to see what the 2022 breeding season will bring!

We aim to offer everyone a great visitor experience when visiting Rye Meads. In anticipation of another busy year, we are launching some new requirements for use of the Hub, including restrictions on capacity and time. These measures are designed to allow as many people as possible to see and learn about our kingfishers while ensuring minimal disturbance and considering the safety of our visitors. A member of the team will be on hand as much as possible to facilitate your viewing experience.  

From 1^st March 2022, the following will apply until further notice:

• Max of 25 visitors allowed in the Hub at any one time, including 15 in the photographers/birdwatchers section and 10 in the family area.
• Time restrictions will be in place and will be communicated through signage at the Hub, visitor centre and on social media; 2 hours standard time per visitor and 30-60 mins at busy times to manage flow of people.
• At the end of your time in the Hub, you are asked to vacate your space for another visitor and may re-join the queue outside the Hub, if you wish.
• The safety of our guests is of upmost importance and therefore we strongly recommend the use of face coverings and distancing in line with government guidelines. These requirements are subject to change if the government guidelines deem it.
• The Rye Meads team will be available at the Hub as much as possible. Please follow their guidance or these requirements to help everyone enjoy the experience.
• Be polite and courteous to other users and those staffing the hub.
• With a second pair nesting at the Draper hide in 2021, we will put in additional measures around the Draper hide if the need arises.
• Rye Meads staff reserve the right to adjust maximum times at the Hub to ensure a fair viewing experience for all. Any changes will be communicated to you at the visitor centre and displayed at the Hub.

We also ask that you:

• Follow the one-way system around the kingfisher loop
• Queue outside the Hub to gain entry
• Familiarise yourself with the code of conduct displayed in the visitor centre and Hub
• Put your mobile phones and other electronic devices on silent
• Please keep noise levels low
• Remember that the toilet facilities are located a short walk away at the visitor centre
• Remember to take your rubbish and your belongings with you when you leave
• Use hide clamps if you have your telescope at the benches
• Ensure you are respectful and courteous to staff and visitors at all times
• Engage with staff at the Hub
• Do not play recordings of birdsong or calls
• Do not use tripods at the benches in the photographers/birdwatchers section

All visitors must abide by these requirements and the code of conduct displayed or they may be asked to vacate the hub, or in extreme cases will be asked to leave the reserve

We will be running a series of VIP kingfisher events through the breeding season offering exclusive out of hours access, room for use of tripods, and use of the low-level photography slots. We time these events to coincide with peak activity from the kingfishers and therefore can’t predict dates in advance, so keep any eye on our social media and website for dates and booking information.

We look forward to seeing you in the 2022 season, fingers crossed for plenty of action!