About the reserve

Narborough Bog is a unique reserve for Leicestershire and Rutland; a diverse and interesting habitat teeming with nature just a few miles south of the city. Over 6,000 years old, it’s no wonder that this reserve is such a hotbed for wildlife in suburbia. Over 130 bird species have been recorded here, including kingfishers, tawny owls and all three species of woodpecker!

The diverse woodland is made up of a variety of tree species, crack-willow, alder, birch, pedunculate oak, ash and sycamore; the shrub layer includes hawthorn, elder, field maple, guelder-rose and dogwood. This, in turn, supports a huge diversity of birds – sparrowhawks are one of the star birds of prey here. Six species of tit have also been recorded. Bats have been seen, and you might spot wildflowers like red campion, skullcap and more unusual species. Out in the wet meadows, flora and fauna are both thriving, thanks to grazing. A good variety of butterflies occur, including common blue, meadow brown, large and small skippers, small heath and gatekeeper.