Protecting Porlock Marsh

Porlock Marsh is a beautiful and unique coastal landscape within Exmoor National Park. It forms part of the Porlock Ridge and Saltmarsh SSSI.

Many birds are found here year-round, and the Marsh is considered important for the conservation of birds and its salt marsh plants.

During the winter, flocks of Teal and Wigeon can be seen on the open water, with waders such as Curlew, Lapwing and Redshank around the margins. Passage birds in the Spring include Dunlin, Ringed Plover and Whimbrel. Resident throughout the year are Shelduck, Little Egret, Redshank and Oystercatcher, some of which attempt to breed when undisturbed.

To ensure we can all enjoy this space responsibly without disturbing wildlife, please follow the advice below.

The Paddlers Code

Ducks, waders and seabirds using the Marsh and the pebble beach for feeding, resting and breeding are very sensitive to any disturbance. Your actions can make a big difference.

Observe and Respect

Be aware of birds visiting the marsh and shoreline and preferably avoid entering the lagoon during the breeding season (mid-April to mid-August).
Stay wildlife-friendly by minimising noise and sudden changes of direction.
Observe birds’ reactions from a distance. Be aware at 100m and keep at least 50m away from all birds.
If birds become aware of you and change behaviour give them space and move away at a steady pace.
Head bobbing, calling out, wing flapping and flying away indicate that birds have been disturbed.
Kayakers should keep a low paddle angle and paddleboarders should maintain a low profile by kneeling.

Hide Tide Awareness

Be mindful of the limited space birds have within the lagoon at high tide.
Small channels are the perfect hiding places for birds. Please avoid them by keeping to the open water.

Do Not Land

Kayaks and SUPs enter and exit the area from Porlock Weir.
Wading birds and their chicks have excellent camouflage, landing on the shore could cause birds to abandon their nests or chicks, and fragile plant communities could be damaged.

The Walkers Code

Porlock Marsh is a fascinating place to explore, offering beautiful views and opportunities to see a variety of wildlife throughout the year. By following a few simple guidelines during your visit, you can help protect this special landscape and ensure it continues to thrive for the birds, plants, and other wildlife that call it home.

Stay on marked paths
Avoid creating new tracks across the marsh, as trampling can damage sensitive vegetation and disturb wildlife habitats.
Control Dogs
Use a lead where requested and prevent dogs from chasing birds or entering areas where wildlife may be feeding, nesting, or resting.
Respect Wildlife
Observe birds and other animals from a distance, especially during the breeding season and winter months when disturbance can have a significant impact.
Leave no trace
Remove all rubbish, including food scraps, which can attract predators and harm wildlife.
Enjoy the marsh quietly
Keep noise to a minimum and avoid using speakers or other loud devices so that wildlife is not disturbed and everyone can enjoy the tranquillity of the area.

Thank you

Ducks, waders and seabirds using the marsh and beach are very sensitive to any disturbance. By following the guidance above, you can make a big difference to their future.