Head for the Discovery Hut and view the nest box live via a video camera

For the second year running the resident female kestrel at Seaton Wetlands has laid five eggs in a nest box fitted with a video camera.

It allows people to view activity on a big screen in the Discovery Hut in the centre of the Easty Devon Distroct Coucnil’s nature reserve.

To allow even more people the chance to come and see what is happening in the kestrel nest box, the Countryside team has now extended the Hut’s normal opening hours to 10am to 4pm Saturday to Monday, and 10am to 12pm Tuesday to Thursday.

Visitors can also enjoy hot drinks, ice creams and other snacks for a donation towards the site.

They can also learn more about the wildlife at Seaton Wetlands, including the kestrels, from the volunteers on duty.

EDDC Environment spokesman Cllr Tom Wright said: ‘’The kestrel cam is an exciting time of year for visitors to Seaton Wetlands. It is testament to the work of the Countryside team and the volunteers who support them that these stunning birds of prey are using the wetlands to breed year on year.”

Countryside team leader, James Chubb said: ‘’It is uncanny that the kestrel laid her first egg on 18 April, the exact date her first egg was laid in 2017. She has also laid five eggs again, which is a promising indication of food supply in the area. Four of the eggs have hatched and we’re looking forward to watching them grow and fly the nest.’’

On Sunday, June 3, the Axe Vale and District Conservation Society in partnership with the Countryside team will be running a wildlife day from 11am to 3pm at Seaton Wetlands. The day will be full of wildlife activities, including pond dipping, wildlife walks and a competition to name the kestrel chicks.

For more information about Seaton Wetlands and Countryside events taking place throughout the year visit: wildeastdevon.co.uk. The Countryside team can be contacted via email: countryside@eastdevon.gov.uk or phone: 01395 517557.

Seaton Wetlands alongside the River Axe is made up of four main sites - Seaton Marshes, Black Hole Marsh, Colyford Common and Stafford Marsh. There are five bird hides and nearly 4km of level trails and boardwalks suitable for wheelchair, bike and pushchairs.