Badley Moor facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Norfolk |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 18.3 hectares (45 acres) |
| Notification | 1986 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Badley Moor is a very special natural area in Norfolk, England. It covers about 18.3 hectares, which is roughly the size of 45 football fields! This amazing place is protected because of its unique plants and wildlife. It's officially known as a 'Site of Special Scientific Interest' (SSSI). Badley Moor is also part of a larger protected area called the 'Norfolk Valley Fens Special Area of Conservation' (SAC).
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What Makes Badley Moor Special?
Badley Moor is a 'Site of Special Scientific Interest' (SSSI). This means it's a place the government protects. They do this because it has rare plants, animals, or important natural features. It's also part of the 'Norfolk Valley Fens Special Area of Conservation' (SAC). This is an even bigger protected area that helps conserve important habitats across Europe.
Unique Features of Badley Moor
This special place is a 'fen'. A fen is a type of wetland that gets its water from springs, not just rain. Badley Moor is located in the valley of the River Tud. Here, you can find interesting mounds called 'tufa hummocks'. These hummocks are formed when a mineral called calcium carbonate builds up over time from the spring water.
A Home for Rare Plants
Badley Moor has an incredibly rich plant community. You'll find a thick carpet of moss on the wet slopes. Many unusual plants grow here that are hard to find elsewhere. There are also old ditches, called 'dykes', that are now overgrown with plants. These include the narrow-leaved water-parsnip and water dropwort.
Visiting Badley Moor
If you want to explore Badley Moor, there is a short path you can use. This path starts from a place called Dumpling Green. It's a great spot to see some of Norfolk's unique nature up close.
