Types of Norfolk Wildlife to Look Out for on a Day Out with the Kids
Types of Norfolk Wildlife, Big and Small
Norfolk has plenty of wildlife to see, from the Swallowtail butterfly to the Chinese Water Deer. The kids will love to see which different types of Norfolk wildlife they can see when on a day out from Hemsby Beach Holiday Park, and here we list our favourites to add to your spotting list!
Chinese Water Deer
Credit: Elizabeth Dack
A favourite amongst young children for their teddy-bear faces, made up of two black eyes a black button nose, Chinese Water Deer are easily mistaken for muntjac or roe – but the tell-tale sign of no white bottom will help you to easily identify them! They’re also missing antlers – instead, these dog-size deer grow tusks!
Norfolk Hawker
The UK’s rarest dragonfly, the Norfolk Hawker is best identified by its clear wings, bright green eyes, and yellow triangle on its body. Don’t mistake them for the common brown hawker, with its brown wings and brown eyes!
Water Vole
Credit: Mike Dawson
The guinea pigs of the Broads, water voles have dumpy little bodies and dull and round nose. There are sometimes mistaken for rats – but they don’t have as obvious ears! These are endangered and have a strong population in Norfolk – so always be respectful, as with all wildlife.
Seals
Kids will love the white and fluffy seal pups that snuggle with their mums on the Norfolk coast! Found at various places, most commonly Blakeney Point and Horsey, there are a number of safe ways to view the seals which you can read more about here.
Kingfisher
Credit: Elizabeth Dack
Electric in colour and nippy in nature, the kingfisher bird is very easy for young children to recognise. With its electric blue head and back and bright orange undercoat, the kingfisher has such short legs that oftentimes you can only see their feet! This bird is very small, so keep your eyes peeled! You can find more information about birdwatching here.