Spring is a magical time here in Cornwall, and in May the ancient oak trees are a vibrant green as the new leaves begin to show. The tree’s connected to the sea with lichens and mosses growing on the bark, soaking up the ocean moisture and carbon emissions. The Helford is home to the rare North Atlantic Rainforest and the Helford has acres of untouched woodland that meets the sea water fed river. The Woodland is left to fall into the water and decay feeding the new trees creating a natural cycle of life and ideal habitat for an abundance of birdlife.
AT this time of year it is the Grey Heron and Little Egret that take centre stage, nesting in the heronry on the creeks, the kingfishers and sandpipers now hidden in the grassy banks that sit on top of Devonian Slade, home to oysters, mussels and cockles that will be come part of their food source. Shelducks and Mallards can be seen cruising along the Helford or sat on the banks waiting for the tide. A couple of mallards with a trail of ducklings following them were only spotted at the weekend. Loan swans paddling to find their mate. Here’s a a glimpse of what you might see:
Herons
With a wingspan reaching up to 195cm, the majestic grey heron is a true highlight of the Helford. Their colourful beaks and legs make them easy to spot as they hunt along the riverbanks—just be mindful of the nesting areas along Polwheveral Creek.
A Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea) soars gracefully over a serene water body, its expansive wings fully extended, showcasing the bird’s impressive wingspan.
Little Egrets
Equally captivating are the little egrets, whose brilliant white plumage has lit up our skies since they arrived in significant numbers in 1989. Whether migrating or staying year-round, they’re a delight against the backdrop of ancient oak trees.
Little Egret wading in Port Navas Creek, Helford River
Kingfishers
Kingfishers, with their vivid blue and russet wings, are a rarer sight in spring. They’re usually busy nesting along the riverbanks and might make a more frequent appearance in the autumn—but don’t lose hope; a fleeting glimpse is always a special treat.
Kingfisher perched looking for it’s next fish on Frenchman’s Creek
Cormorants and Shags
Much like along St Agnes, keep your eyes peeled for cormorants and shags around the Helford. These agile birds often use nearby buoys as drying spots after a successful dive, showcasing their impressive underwater skills.
Cormorant perched on the banks of the Helford River
Curlews
Listen for the haunting call of curlews as they blend into the serene coastal backdrop, their long, curved beaks a striking contrast against their mottled feathers.
Common Seals
And while seals aren’t permanent residents of the Helford, these playful, curious creatures can often be seen trailing after a fish or even a fishing boat, adding an extra dash of excitement to your cruise.
Common Seal on the Helford River. Cornwall
Dolphins
Dolphins have been spotted frolicking just off Trebah Gardens beach on a couple of occasions in the last few years and once a customers pointed out a fin just before Frenchman’s Creek. ‘A shark’ she said. I smiled, no sharks here, but then it was a dolphin! Such beautiful aquatic mammals that belong to the infraorder Cetacea. Highly intelligent, social, and charismatic animals and a joy to see when we encounter them on our boat trips, so keep your eyes peeled!
Dolphins frolicking in the Helford
We also have Osprey sightings but they tend to be in September and October..
Come and join our Helford River Cruise and this year we have teamed up with Cornwall Wildlife Trust on specific dates one of their team will join the experience and support the trust.
With trips available 7 days a week, Monday through to Sunday, with trips times varying around the high tide so check the trip times as every fortnight they will be on early mornings and evenings, then alternate fortnights in the middle of the day. The wildlife is around throughout the day there’s no specific time as it’s wildlife!
Join us on a Helford River Cruise this spring and experience nature at its very best. Book your trip today and make memories that will last a lifetime!
Embrace the season, respect the wildlife, and let the adventure begin!
