Alvecote Pools facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
River Anker and Alvecote Pools
|
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| Area of Search | Warwickshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 128 hectares |
| Notification | 1955 |
Alvecote Pools is a special nature spot in England, right next to the River Anker. It's located near a small village called Alvecote, on the border between Warwickshire and Staffordshire. Most of this amazing place is in Warwickshire.
Discover Alvecote Pools: A Special Nature Spot
Alvecote Pools is known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it's a very important place for nature. It's protected because of its unique plants, animals, or geology. The area covers about 128 hectares, which is like 300 football fields! It's the biggest SSSI in Warwickshire. This special site was first recognized in 1955. Since 1997, the Warwickshire Wildlife Trust has owned and looked after it.
How Alvecote Pools Was Formed
Alvecote Pools is a series of shallow pools right by the river. These pools weren't always here. They formed because of something called "colliery subsidence." This happened when an old coal mine, Alvecote Colliery, stopped working. The ground above the mine slowly sank, creating dips that filled with water. The mine closed in 1965.
Home to Amazing Wildlife
This area is a mix of different habitats. You'll find wetlands, which are like marshy areas, along with fens, reedbeds, and even woodlands. Because of all these different places, Alvecote Pools is super important for birds. Over 100 different types of birds are seen here every year. About 60 to 70 of these bird species even choose to build their nests and raise their young here.
But it's not just birds! The site is also a fantastic home for insects. Scientists have found 322 different kinds of beetles living here. There are also 121 different types of spiders. It's a busy place full of life!
