Wildlife Lovers: These are the Top Locations in the UK to See the Best of the UK’s Wildlife
Park Holidays has analysed animal sighting data across 15 UK regions to reveal the best locations for wildlife lovers in the UK.
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Kent stands out as the most diverse region with the widest variety of species to see
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When it comes to the most animal sightings, however, Hampshire comes out tops with 10,037 sightings of animals including Muntjac deer, American mink and Bechstein’s bat, one of the rarest bats in Europe
Park Holidays UK, the leading provider of family-friendly holiday parks, is thrilled to announce the findings of their latest study, which explores 15 UK regions to uncover the unique wildlife found in each. This in-depth research showcases the rich diversity of the UK’s natural habitats, inviting families and nature lovers to discover and enjoy the incredible wildlife that makes these regions so special.
If you love nature, knowing where to find the richest wildlife experiences can take your next holiday to a whole new level. With data sourced from the NBN Atlas, which tracks the most prolific wildlife within a 6-mile radius in a specific location, the team at Park Holidays have revealed the best UK places to spot your favourite wildlife in their natural habitat on your next trip.
Location |
Total Sightings |
Easy to spot |
Difficult to spot |
Hampshire |
17,087 |
Roe deer |
Polecat |
Yorkshire |
11,610 |
Hedgehog |
Siberian chipmunk |
Derbyshire |
10,280 |
Water vole |
Coypu |
Kent |
10,037 |
Hazel dormouse |
Whiskered bat |
Lancashire |
8,913 |
Roe deer |
Sika deer |
Devon |
6,188 |
Hedgehog |
Beaver |
Suffolk |
6,152 |
Muntjac deer |
Ferret |
Essex |
5,506 |
Red fox |
Porpoise |
Herefordshire |
4,105 |
Grey squirrel |
Brand’s bat |
Dorset |
3,730 |
Brown hare |
Red deer |
Cornwall |
3,003 |
Badger |
Ferret |
Cumbria |
2,202 |
Red squirrel |
Pine marten |
Wales |
2,176 |
Otter |
Lesser horseshoe bat |
Scotland |
2,144 |
Beaver |
Water shrew |
Northumberland |
1,287 |
European mole |
Stoat |
Hampshire is a dream destination for wildlife enthusiasts
Rolling hills, ancient woodlands, picturesque rivers and coastal areas offer the perfect backdrop for nature-lovers, making Hampshire a truly special place to explore and unwind. With sightings of several deer species, as well as hares, badgers, hedgehog and American mink, Hampshire boasts a rich and diverse wildlife experience. You might even spot the furry Serotine, one of the largest bats in the UK, known to emerge in the early evening while it is still light.
Yorkshire’s rolling moors offer plenty of chances to see animals
This haven for wildlife enthusiasts offers diverse areas to explore and plenty of opportunities to spot animals in their natural habitat. You’ll see squirrels, hedgehogs and deer species, but keep an eye out for the elusive Siberian Chipmunk in woodland and forests, and the rare Barbastelle bat, which has a pug-like face due to its upturned nose.
Derbyshire is a haven for species spotting
Offering regular sightings of squirrels, water voles, badgers and weasels, Derbyshire’s picturesque scenery and varied ecosystems make it a great destination for wildlife lovers. The beaver-like Coypu has been spotted in the area, as well as polecats and some rare bat species.
Travel tips for spotting wildlife on your next Park Holiday
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Plan your outdoor time: Double check peak times for animal activity, especially for the ones you are hoping to see. Early morning and late afternoon can be good times for wildlife spotting.
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Stay quiet and be patient: Spotting an elusive species requires a fair amount of patience, and animals are more likely to appear when you are quiet and still.
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Use binoculars: Enabling you to observe animals from a distance without disturbing them.
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Visit diverse habitats: Explore woodlands, wetlands, and meadows to increase your chances of seeing different animals.
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Respect the environment: Always follow the “Leave No Trace” principle. Avoid disturbing animals and their habitats, and ensure you take all your litter with you to preserve the natural beauty.
Credit: https://www.parkholidays.com/
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