With their fantastic array of trills, whistles, gurgles and crescendos, the song of the nightingale has been well-documented throughout history. These humble looking birds have just completed their annual long-haul migration from Africa and will be looking to nest and find a mate.

Essex Wildlife Trust’s Fingringhoe Wick nature reserve is one of the best places in the country to hear these birds up close, due to the accessible footpaths that take you through the site. It is the males who are singing their hearts out as they aim to impress a mate. Once the birds pair up, the males fall silent, so the best time to experience nature’s symphony is from now until mid-May, with visitors often hearing them sing throughout the day, as well as at dawn and dusk.

Essex Wildlife Trust is holding guided evening walks, to celebrate the incredible repertoire of this small songbird. 

Essex Wildlife Trust’s guided Nightingale Walks:

Beginning on Tuesday 23 April and continuing every day, 7.30pm-9pm, until Tuesday 14 May. These guided walks are extremely popular, so please book as soon as possible. Call 01206 729678 to book; a £7 donation per person is recommended.

Sam Lee’s Singing with Nightingales:

The Nest Collective are hosting a special series of duets alongside the nightingale. Hosted by musician Sam Lee and featuring guest musicians there will be music around the campfire, followed by a starlit walk into the woods for a duet beneath the night sky. Saturday April 27, 8.00pm-midnight. For more information and to book your tickets online, click here.