Arlington Reservoir facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | East Sussex |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 100.4 hectares (248 acres) |
| Notification | 1985 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Arlington Reservoir is a special place for nature found west of Hailsham in East Sussex, England. It covers about 100.4 hectares, which is like 248 football fields! This area is protected because it's a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Local Nature Reserve. It's looked after by a company called South East Water.
Contents
What is Arlington Reservoir?
Arlington Reservoir is a large body of water that was created by people. It was made by building a dam across the River Cuckmere. Before the dam, the river used to wind through the area where the reservoir is now. Today, the River Cuckmere flows in a straight line just to the east of the reservoir.
Why is it a Special Place?
Arlington Reservoir is very important for wildlife. It was officially named a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in 1985. This means it's a protected area because of its amazing plants and animals. It's also a Local Nature Reserve, which helps keep it safe for nature and for people to enjoy.
Wildlife at the Reservoir
This reservoir is a fantastic spot for birdwatching! Many different kinds of birds live here or visit throughout the year.
Birds You Might See
- Wigeon: During winter, more than 1% of all the wigeon in the UK come to Arlington Reservoir. That's a lot of ducks!
- Cormorants: You can often see cormorants resting on the banks or in the trees around the water. They are great at diving for fish.
- Grebes: Look out for the elegant Great Crested Grebes. They have cool head feathers and do a special dancing display.
- Swallows: In warmer months, swallows fly over the water, catching insects.
- Mallards: These common ducks are easy to spot with their green heads (males) and brown bodies (females).
- Pied Wagtails: These small birds are always wagging their tails as they walk around.
- Coots: You'll see coots with their black bodies and white beaks, often swimming in groups.
- Canada Geese: Large, noisy geese with black necks and white chin straps are often found here.
- Rooks: These smart, black birds are a type of crow.
- Black Swans: Sometimes, you might even see beautiful Black swans on the water. They are usually escapees from private collections.
Other Animals and Plants
Besides birds, the area around the reservoir is home to other creatures. You might see sheep grazing in the nearby water meadows.
The plants around the reservoir are also important. You'll find alder trees (Alnus glutinosa) and different types of willow trees (Salix) near the water. There are also bushes like hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna).
Visiting the Reservoir
There's an Osprey Birdhide located on the northwest side of the reservoir. This is a great place to quietly watch the birds without disturbing them. A long jetty also stretches into the water, not far from a building that treats the water.
