Twelve new volunteers have joined Seaton Wetlands' Discovery Hut team.
This follows a successful recruitment drive by East Devon District Council's (EDDC) countryside team.
Seaton Wetlands is the flagship site of EDDC’s countryside team and attracts over 10,000 visitors each year.
The Discovery Hut is operated by a team of dedicated and knowledgeable volunteers, who are now set to provide an enhanced visitor experience.
The volunteers share information on wildlife sightings, offer refreshments, and hire out pond-dipping equipment during spring and summer.
The Discovery Hut is open from Friday to Monday, with varying hours depending on the season.
The addition of the new volunteers will allow the hut to open daily during school holidays.
Councillor Geoff Jung, EDDC’s portfolio holder for coast, country, and environment, said: "Volunteers play a vital role in enhancing the visitor experience at Seaton Wetlands.
"We’re thrilled with the public’s response to our recruitment drive for the Discovery Hut and are excited to offer consistency throughout the year.
"This ensures that more people can explore and learn about the incredible wildlife that makes this site so special."
James Chubb, countryside team manager, said: "2024 is shaping up to be a record year for Seaton Wetlands, both in terms of visitor numbers and wildlife sightings.
"Already this year, we’ve been treated to visiting avocets, and sand martins, and at the end of the summer, ospreys were seen over the Axe estuary.
"Our volunteers are fantastic ambassadors for the site, sharing their enthusiasm and knowledge with visitors to ensure everyone has a memorable experience.
"We’re thrilled with the response to our call for volunteers and look forward to welcoming even more visitors to the Discovery Hut in the coming months."
Seaton Wetlands is home to a diverse array of birds.
To help visitors make the most of their bird-watching experience, the countryside team is seeking volunteers for Guide in the Hide sessions.
These volunteers will be based in the Island Hide from 10am to 12noon, assisting visitors with their bird-watching.
The Guide in the Hide sessions will take place every other Monday, starting on October 14.
Those interested in volunteering are encouraged to contact the team at wild@eastdevon.gov.uk.
For more information on planning a visit to Seaton Wetlands or to explore other nature reserves managed by the countryside team, visit wildeastdevon.co.uk.
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