Black Bourn Valley facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Black Bourn Valley |
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| Type | Nature reserve |
| Location | Thurston, Suffolk |
| OS grid | TL943650 |
| Area | 88 hectares |
| Managed by | Suffolk Wildlife Trust |
Black Bourn Valley, once called Grove Farm, is a special nature reserve in Suffolk, England. It covers a large area of 88 hectares (about 217 acres). This amazing place is located between the towns of Thurston and Elmswell. It is looked after by the Suffolk Wildlife Trust, an organization that helps protect wildlife.
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Discover Black Bourn Valley Nature Reserve
What is Black Bourn Valley?
Black Bourn Valley is a big nature reserve. A nature reserve is a protected area where plants, animals, and their natural homes are kept safe. The main goal is to help wildlife thrive and for people to learn about nature.
The beautiful River Black Bourn flows right through the middle of this reserve. This river helps create different types of habitats, like wet meadows and woodlands. These different areas are perfect for many kinds of plants and animals to live in.
Animals and Plants You Might See
Black Bourn Valley is a great place for spotting wildlife. Many different bird species live here. You might see:
- Barn owls flying silently at dusk.
- Brightly colored yellowhammers singing from a bush.
- Small, cheerful linnets.
- Reed buntings near the water.
- And skylarks soaring high above, singing their beautiful songs.
The wet meadows in the reserve are also home to some lovely plants. Look out for:
- Pretty marsh orchids, which have unique flowers.
- And bright yellow marsh marigolds, especially in spring.
How to Visit
It's easy to visit Black Bourn Valley. If you are coming from Thurston, head east along Barrell's Road. At the very end of this road, turn south.
You will find the entrance to the reserve on your left side. It's just before you reach the railway line. On maps, this entrance might still be marked as Grove Farm.
