UK Native Species Zone

In 2024, you helped us raise £20,000 for a white-clawed crayfish breeding centre. Thanks to your generosity and the support of the UK Rural Prosperity Fund, the centre is now open.

A keystone species in Hampshire’s chalk streams, crayfish are rapidly declining due to disease, habitat loss, and competition from invasive species. The centre provides a haven for this endangered species, and allows you to get up close to them, while learning about their conservation challenges.

Sand lizards are one of Britain’s rarest reptiles, and are struggling due to habitat destruction, so Marwell’s habitat provides an important haven for this shy species. They can be tricky to spot as they love hiding among plants… but they enjoy basking in the sun, so keep your eyes peeled!

Our pond is buzzing with amazing small creatures! Keep an eye out for dragonflies, frogs, newts and water beetles… what will you see?

Pick a comfy spot and settle down with a book from our outdoor library, to explore the wonders of nature through the written word! When you’re finished, return the book to the Nature Nook for others to enjoy.

If you have a nature book you love and would like to share with others, we’d love to receive your donations – it helps keep the adventure going for everyone.

Enjoy a game of Tic Tac Toe, balance on logs, or snap a photo next to our dragonfly photo opportunity.

Find out about the amazing work Marwell is doing to protect native species, including our work at Eelmoor Marsh, a special nature reserve which is a sanctuary for rare species.

Learn about the small steps you can take to help make a safe home for our local wildlife. From avoiding littering to planting wildflowers, there are plenty of ways you can make a difference. Admire our bug hotel and learn how you can make your own!