Ashwell Springs facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Hertfordshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 0.3 hectares |
| Notification | 1986 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Ashwell Springs is a very special natural area in Ashwell, Hertfordshire. It's quite small, about the size of half a football field (0.3 hectares), but it's super important for nature. Because of its unique features, it's been named a Site of Special Scientific Interest, or SSSI for short. This means it's protected by law because of its rare plants, animals, or geology.
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Ashwell Springs: A Unique Natural Spot
Ashwell Springs is a place where water naturally flows out of the ground. These aren't just any puddles; they are the very start of the River Cam, which is a famous river in England! Imagine, a whole river begins right here from these cool, clear springs.
What Makes Ashwell Springs Special?
The water in these springs is always very cold. This might not sound exciting, but it's actually amazing for certain creatures! Because the water stays cold all year round, it creates a perfect home for tiny animals that love chilly conditions. Many of these animals are quite rare and can't live in warmer water.
Cool Creatures of the Springs
Ashwell Springs is especially important for a type of animal called an invertebrate. Invertebrates are animals without backbones, like insects or worms. Here, you can find special kinds of flatworms, including ones named Crenobia alpina and Polycelis felina. These flatworms thrive in the cold, clear water of the springs. The land around the pools has lots of grass and plants, which help keep the water shaded and cool.
Visiting Ashwell Springs
If you want to see this cool natural spot, it's easy to get to! You can find access from the main High Street in Ashwell. There's also a footpath that leads to the springs from a place called Hodwell. It's a great place to visit and see nature up close, remembering to respect the protected environment.
