Calshot Marshes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Calshot Marshes |
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| Type | Local Nature Reserve |
| Location | Calshot, Hampshire |
| OS grid | SU 483 023 |
| Area | 51.1 hectares (126 acres) |
| Managed by | Hampshire Countryside Service |
Calshot Marshes is a special natural area in Hampshire, England. It is a Local Nature Reserve that covers about 51 hectares (which is roughly the size of 70 football fields!). You can find it near Calshot, where the sea channel called The Solent meets Southampton Water.
This important place is owned by Hampshire County Council. It is looked after by the Hampshire Countryside Service. They work to protect the amazing wildlife that lives here.
What Makes Calshot Marshes Special?
Calshot Marshes is not just any marsh. It is part of several very important protected areas. These areas help to keep its unique environment safe for plants and animals.
A Home for Wildlife
Calshot Marshes is part of a bigger area called Solent and Southampton Water. This larger area has a few special titles:
- Ramsar site: This means it is a wetland of international importance. These sites are recognized for their unique plants, animals, and habitats.
- Special Protection Area (SPA): This title is given to places that are very important for wild birds. Many different bird species use this area for feeding, breeding, and resting.
- Special Area of Conservation (SAC): This protects habitats and species that are rare or threatened in Europe.
- Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI): This is a UK-based protection. It means the area has special wildlife or geological features. Calshot Marshes is part of the Hythe to Calshot Marshes SSSI.
Amazing Birds of the Marshes
This marshy area is a vital stop for many birds. It is especially important for certain types of birds. Some of these birds travel long distances to be here.
- Dark-bellied brent geese: These geese are internationally important visitors. They fly here from far away to spend the winter.
- Wigeon: This type of duck is nationally important for the site.
- Teal: Another nationally important duck species that uses the marshes.
- Ringed plover: A small wading bird that finds food here.
- Grey plover: Another type of plover that relies on the marsh.
- Black-tailed godwit: A large wading bird with a long beak.
- Redshank: A noisy wading bird known for its bright red legs.
- Dunlin: A small, common wading bird that feeds in the mudflats.
These birds depend on the rich mud and plants of the saltmarsh. It provides them with plenty of food and a safe place to rest. Protecting Calshot Marshes helps these incredible birds survive.
