A NATURE reserve in the Colchester countryside has seen the return of one of the UK's most iconic songbirds. 

If you visit Fingringhoe Wick Nature Discovery Park you stand a chance of spotting and hearing the nightingale.

Despite a 90 per cent population decline over the last 50 years, the species has found a stronghold in the park.

It is thought it supports one per cent of the whole UK population.

With the mating season upon us, the lush park is witnessing a symphony of trills, whistles, gurgles, and crescendos – part of the nightingale's noble attempt to woo a mate.

Gazette: Essex Wildlife Trust has confirmed the return of one of the UK's most iconic songbirds, the

Communications manager for Essex Wildlife Trust, Lauren Cosson, said: "Each year we count ourselves extremely lucky to have nightingales return to Fingringhoe Wick Nature Discovery Park.

"These songbirds need to be heard in person, with their stunning vocal repertoire of more than 1,000 sounds.

"Whether you live locally or are visiting from afar, coming to hear the nightingales is a must for any wildlife lover.

"With nightingale populations declining at an alarming rate, it’s even more special to have them here in Essex."

The best time to hear the birds in song is throughout their breeding season, during late April and May.

Renowned for their songs, nightingales have a rich vocal repertoire, able to produce more than 1,000 different sounds, compared to a skylark’s 340 vocal nuances and a blackbird’s estimated 100 sounds.

Open from 9am to 5pm, Fingringhoe Park provides the quintessential platform to indulge in these fascinating melodies rings across the reserve, often clearing its throat at dawn and dusk.

To help visitors make the most of this event, some late-night walks are also available from April 25, led by knowledgeable rangers.

Reservations for these encounters with the musical wonders of the wild can be made on the Essex Wildlife Trust’s website or by phone through calling 01206 729678.