The Wildfowl and Wetland Trust is closing its bird exhibits and formal school tours at Castle Espie on Strangford Lough in Comber. The decision follows years of operating at a financial deficit, the charity said.

The centre will transfer its collection of 60 birds to other WWT sites in England and Wales this month. The exhibits and aviaries will be taken down, and the space will be opened as a walk-through area with additional seating. A wetland garden is planned for the longer term.

WWT said Castle Espie has had historically lower visitor numbers and has been running at a loss for some time. The charity needs to reduce that deficit and bring the site closer to covering its costs. It described the move as necessary to refocus on protecting the wetlands of Strangford Lough.

The cafe and shop will remain open, and self-guided school visits will continue to be welcome. The formal education offer will close, and opening hours may change in future. WWT did not comment on the fate of staff at the centre.

The land at Ballydrain Road was gifted to the WWT by local landowner Paddy Mackey in 1989. Castle Espie sits on the shores of Strangford Lough.

In a statement, WWT said it appreciates the support of visitors and members and understands the change may be difficult for those who enjoyed seeing the birds. It added that all the birds have new homes at other WWT sites.

The charity cited the cost-of-living crisis as a factor in difficult decisions across the organisation. It also pointed to the need to restore and protect wetlands as extreme weather becomes more frequent.

Local people expressed disappointment on social media, questioning why they would visit without the bird exhibits. Some described the loss of the education programme as devastating.