About the reserve

Formed in 2008 on an area of wet wasteland, Balloo Wetland now boasts a range of habitats including ponds, reedbeds and wet woodland, which offer solace to a wealth of of wild creatures. 

Frogs and newts  breed here in spring, while dragonflies, such as four-spotted chaser and common darter, can be seen darting around the pond in summer. Otters also visit the site, but they are much more elusive. 

Little grebe and moorhen can be seen on the pond all year round, and sightings of little egrets are not unlikely. In winter, small numbers of mallard and teal move in.

Summer is the best time to take in the beauty of the wildflower meadow around the pond, when the mix of flowers and insects are at their peak.

As with our other urban nature reserves, maintaining the network of paths for visitor access is a priority. We also look after the wildflower meadow to help wildlife thrive.

Balloo Wetland is managed in partnership with Ards and North Down Borough Council