Le Grand Pré, tucked away in the lanes near Bordeaux, is owned by the States of Guernsey but has been managed by La Société Guernesiaise https://societe.org.gg for the past twenty years. In the past, this type of wetland with reed beds would have covered large areas in the north and east of the island and also along the west coast. Patches remain today, often indicated with Marais or Mare in a name, and Le Grand Pré has one of the largest surviving areas of reeds.
A path goes around the edge of the reserve and it only takes a fifteen minute stroll to complete the circuit. Wellies are the order of the day for most of the year as the path to the left of the parking area is under water during late autumn through to early spring. The right-hand path takes you to the bird hide which overlooks a small pond. A morning visit shows it to its best advantage with sunshine lighting up the reeds which give a golden reflection to the water.
Water Rail are best seen in the winter months, often heard squealing but usually unobtrusive. They look surprising narrow when seen head on – presumably an evolutionary adaptation to their life squeezing in between the reeds.
Surrounded by Willow and Blackthorn, the pond is attractive to spring visitors: Reed and Sedge Warblers, Spotted Flycatcher. Cetti’s Warbler are resident but very elusive. Marsh Harrier is often seen overhead and has been an occasional breeder.
It is also a great place for insects: dragonflies, hoverflies, butterflies and moths.
Perhaps not the jewel in the crown of our reserves, but it is my local one and a little gem which is always worth an hour of my time.
Natural history of the Bailiwick of Guernsey 