Wildlife Wonders at Cofton: What to Spot All Year Round

Nestled in the heart of Devon’s stunning countryside, Cofton Holidays is more than just a place to stay, it’s a haven for wildlife lovers of all ages. From peaceful woodland trails and relaxing lakes to open fields buzzing with life, our park is home to an incredible variety of birds, animals, and insects. Whether you’re an early morning walker hoping to spot a shy deer, a family on a bug hunt, or a keen photographer waiting for that perfect kingfisher shot, there’s always something wild to discover at Cofton.

Our 80-acre site has flourished, with wildlife thriving amidst a rich tapestry of flowers, trees and hedges, complemented by bee and bug hotels that support a diverse insect population. From buzzing honeybees to nectar-filled plants and our ever present bunnies, there’s an incredible variety of wildlife to explore. Read on to find out what you might see and how to make the most of nature right on your doorstep.

Insects & Mini Beasts: Tiny Wonders Everywhere

Don’t overlook the little things! Cofton’s wildflowers, hedgerows, and meadows are alive with butterflies, bees, and beetles. Look out for the common blue, small white and peacock butterflies, along with the busy honeybees, ladybirds and stag beetles. Kids love spotting ladybirds and dragonflies near our fishing lakes, while moths and crickets come alive at dusk for those who venture out later.

In aid of supporting these insects, we have continued expansion of rewilded areas, reduced grass cutting and planted over 40 new trees to strengthen biodiversity connectivity. In addition to this, bug hotels can be found around the site to enhance shelter and feeding opportunities. For our lovely honeybees this year, we’ve started the Cofton Beehive Project, installing our first beehive at Cofford Farm to support local pollinators and form part of a wider initiative to raise awareness of bees ’importance.

Birds: Feathered Friends to Spot

Cofton is a birdwatcher’s delight all year round. Our lakes attract herons, kingfishers, and ducks, while yellowhammers, treecreepers and robins fill the woodlands and gardens with song. Bring your binoculars and keep an eye out for buzzards circling overhead or woodpeckers tapping in the trees. Early mornings and quiet evenings are the best times to spot our feathered residents.

To protect and support these precious birds, we’ve carefully planted native hedging, providing essential wildlife corridors. You might even see a bird box here and there to enhance shelter for our feathered friends.

Animals: Secretive and Furry Neighbours

If you tread quietly, you might catch a glimpse of some of Cofton’s shyest residents on-site. Foxes, rabbits, and hedgehogs are common sights, especially at dawn or dusk up by our touring pitches at coombeland field. Squirrels scamper through the trees and across site, and the more patient wildlife spotters might even catch sight of deer grazing at the woodland edges. If you’re staying at Cofford Farmhouse, you can get a rare treat of seeing some pipistrelle bats. Our expanded use of downward-facing lighting helps to reduce light pollution and support the nocturnal species. You can now experience true dark-sky conditions and starlit skies, a rare and peaceful experience with wildlife.

Looking to get involved in nature here at Cofton? Want your kids to learn more about the outdoors? See what’s lurking in our ponds down at the fishing lakes with Pond Dipping or learn natural crafts and survival tips at our new Forest School.