The Swift Valley Nature Reserve was created in 2003 by Rugby Borough Council, working in partnership with the Warwickshire Wildlife Trust. The site was opened to the public in late August 2003 by Sir David Bellamy, and contains a large wetland area made by diverting the adjacent river. The land, obtained as part of planning permission for a nearby commercial development, enables Rugby's residents to visit the countryside without travelling far from the town centre. The reserve includes lowland neutral grassland with pronounced ridge and furrow, hedgerows, woodland and wetland adjacent to River Swift and a disused canal. A very dense bird population exists, especially around the pools. Birds include lapwing, snipe and song thrush. Dragonflies and damselflies are abundant and in 2004 the small red-eyed damselfly was recorded here for the first time in Warwickshire. The first moth recording night produced over 60 species along with a healthy bat population. Hard surfaced paths, informal grass paths, extensive areas of new planting, a canal towpath, cycle routes, a bridleway and a car park provide accessibility, whilst offering users a chance to become one with nature. Gates are wheelchair and mobility scooter accessible. One route allows direct access from the canal network through the site onto the footpath network to the north of the town. The Country Park also provides a 'dog exercise area' where dogs are allowed to exercise off their leads. Management of the site is a partnership between the Borough Council and the Warwickshire Wildlife Trust and utilises animals as 'four legged lawn mowers' as well as other more traditional and sustainable management practices.