Suffolk’s only island opens its doors to visitors later this month for the first of four summer events searching for Suffolk’s special wildlife.

Summertime on Havergate is a rare opportunity to join a guided tour of the unique shingle island that is RSPB Havergate Island nature reserve, with its mix of shingle, saltmarsh and lagoons.

RSPB Havergate Site Manager, Aaron Howe, said: “Havergate Island is famous as the home of the UK’s longest established colony of avocets, but is also one of the best places to look for other breeding seabirds such as gulls and common terns. Late summer also sees the return of the first migrant wading birds from the Arctic, while the grassy areas are ablaze with colour as flowering plants attract a variety of butterflies.”

Summertime on Havergate takes place on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 July. The first boat departs Orford Quay at 9 am, but as places are strictly limited advance booking is strongly recommended. Places can reserved by calling the RSPB Minsmere Visitor Centre on 01728 648281. Tickets cost £15 per person, or £12 for RSPB members. Each visit lasts about three hours and includes the boat trip to the island and a guided walk.

There will be further opportunities to visit Havergate for Spoonbills and wading birds on 6-7 August, Havergate Adventure from 20-23 August, and Island of avocets on 3-4 September.