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The rare reedbeds are the largest in the South East. Birds such as bearded reedlings and bitterns are completely dependant on the reedbeds; others, for example marsh harriers, make their nests there. Large flocks of swallows and sand martins migrate through in autumn and spring.
The wet grazing meadows and lagoons attract ducks such as mallards, shovelers and rare garganey ducks, and waders such as sandpipers. In winter more of the reserve floods and wigeons, teal and geese can be seen paddling away on the winter lakes.
Abundant fish life attracts fish-eating birds such as terns, grebes and kingfishers. There is also a wealth of insect life; you can see several species of dragonflies and moths. You might also spot water voles, weasels or even an otter.
There are car parks and toilets at Stodmarsh village (free) and Grove Ferry (where the car park has a fee). There are bird hides and an observation mound and interpretation panels linked by footpaths through the reserve. There also is a new easy access trail (suitable for wheelchairs and buggies apart from in rainy weather) which is signposted from the Stodmarsh car park and includes a multi-sensory trail.
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