Wildlife wardens helping patrol seasonal sanctuary for birds

Restrictions are now in force on the River Exe until the end of December

South East Devon Wildlife patrol operating in the Exe Estuary
Author: Andrew KayPublished 29th Sep 2025

Wildlife Wardens are now on patrol on Devon's Exe Estuary to help promote the Exmouth Wildlife Refuge from mid-September until December.

They will also be reminding water users about the Dawlish Warren Wildlife Refuge, which is operational all year-round.

A spokesperson for East Devon District Council said: "Many birds arrive after flying thousands of miles from places like the Arctic, using up huge amounts of energy. They need calm, undisturbed feeding grounds to refuel.

"The Exe Estuary is designated under UK and international law (SPA, SSSI, Ramsar site) for its rich intertidal mudflats, saltmarsh, and diverse birdlife."

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