Why Autumn is the best Time to Visit Watatunga
Looking for things to do in Norfolk when it’s raining? Or the best autumn activities for a family day out? Watatunga Wildlife Reserve is the perfect destination. Autumn transforms the reserve into a golden landscape, with crisp air, colourful foliage, and active wildlife, making it one of the best times to visit, rain or shine.
Why Autumn is the Best Time to Visit Watatunga
Autumn is a peak season for wildlife activity. Many animals are easier to spot as they spend more time in the open grasslands, while the trees become sparse. To account for there being less grass and no leaves on the trees, we put out four haylage racks of supplementary forage. This forage is to act as a substitute for the lack of fibre in the animals’ diet that will be missing from the fresh grass growth and the leaves on the trees.
We tend to position the hay racks in all four corners of the reserve in the same spots so our animals learn where to find food during the cooler months. It can be much easier to spot the animals in the colder months as opposed to summer, as they’ll always be in the same areas!
Cooler temperatures mean the reserve is more active, and the crisp autumn air makes every guided safari through the reserve invigorating. For deer lovers, autumn is especially exciting. Many species are in rut during this time, including Barasingha, Indian Sambar, and Indian Hog Deer. Watching male deer displaying their strength and agility in the open grasslands, is an unforgettable experience.
Rainy Day Autumn Activities and Wildlife Watching
Don’t let a little rain put you off! Many animals actually enjoy wet weather. Fresh grass shoots grow after rain, attracting grazers to the open fields. The animals follow the fresh grass, it’s where most of the nutrition lies in fresh young shoots, therefore whenever it rains the grass will grow and as a result the animals will be out munching as the grass is growing.
There are a few exceptions. Our bongo boys, for example, prefer to stay in their cozy sheds with their heads through one of the doors. They’re incredibly nosy so you’re guaranteed to see them poking their heads out! But for most of the reserve’s animals, rain encourages natural activity. So when you’re searching for “places to go when it’s raining in Norfolk” or “rainy day activities in Norfolk,” Watatunga should be top of your list.
The Autumn Experience
The reserve is simply beautiful in autumn. Trees turn fiery shades of orange and gold, and misty mornings give the grasslands a magical atmosphere. Native wildlife is busy preparing for the coming months, and visitors can witness these fascinating behaviours up close.
Birdlife is equally active: swallows and other migratory species gather in large groups before heading abroad, while geese arrive from colder regions to overwinter in the reserve. Woodland birds such as robins, tits, and nuthatches can be seen flitting among the branches, often busy searching for seeds and insects before the frost sets in.
Whether you’re planning a family day out, looking for autumn activities, or searching for things to do in Norfolk when it’s raining, Watatunga Wildlife Reserve offers an immersive, all-weather experience you won’t forget. Autumn weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to come prepared. Layers, waterproof jackets, and sturdy footwear will ensure a comfortable visit, no matter the weather.
Planning a visit and would like to know what you will see? Find out what different species, from Water Buffalo to Javan peafowl, you can see on our reserve here on our Meet The Animals page.