The River Exe is Devon's main river, rising on Exmoor and flowing south for more than 50 miles till it reaches the sea at Exmouth. The Exe estuary is renowned nationally as a site of special scientific interest and an important habitat for wading and migrating birds. As a result the estuary is a birdwatcher's paradise with many species including avocets, curlews, teal, oystercatchers, redshanks, and plovers. Twenty thousand migrating birds join the local population in winter. Around this time of the year there can be over 700 avocets visiting the estuary. The estuary's mud makes it a rich feeding ground for birds, supporting molluscs and other food high in nutrients. Other bird watching sites of special note are the nature reserves at Exmouth and the salt marshes of Dawlish Warren. A good way of seeing the bird life is aboard the RSPB's Avocet cruise boat. The Exe is also an important recreational area for local people and visitors providing opportunities walking, boating, and fishing. | 
