Calthorpe Broad facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Norfolk |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 43.5 hectares (107 acres) |
| Notification | 1984 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Calthorpe Broad is a very special natural area located east of Stalham in Norfolk, England. It covers about 43.5 hectares, which is roughly the size of 60 football fields. This beautiful broad is protected because it's home to many rare and important plants and animals. It's a key part of the famous Norfolk Broads, a network of rivers and lakes.
Contents
What Makes Calthorpe Broad So Important?
Calthorpe Broad is recognized as a very important place for nature. It has several special titles that show just how valuable it is for wildlife and conservation.
A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)
Since 1984, Calthorpe Broad has been a Site of Special Scientific Interest. This means it's one of the best places in the country for its wildlife, geology, or landforms. The government protects these sites to make sure their special features are looked after.
A National Nature Reserve
Calthorpe Broad is also a National Nature Reserve. These reserves are areas of national importance for wildlife and geology. They are managed to protect and improve the natural environment. Being a National Nature Reserve means it's one of the UK's top spots for nature.
International Protection for Wildlife
This broad is part of even bigger protected areas that are important worldwide:
- Ramsar Site: It's part of the Broadland Ramsar site. Ramsar sites are wetlands that are important for birds and other wildlife around the world.
- Special Protection Area (SPA): It's also part of a Special Protection Area. These areas are set up to protect rare or vulnerable birds and their habitats across Europe.
- Special Area of Conservation (SAC): Calthorpe Broad is included in a Special Area of Conservation. These sites protect a range of rare habitats and species that are important across Europe.
A Top Nature Conservation Site
The broad is also listed as a Grade I site in the Nature Conservation Review. This review identifies the most important places for nature conservation in Britain. Grade I means it's one of the very best.
Amazing Plants and Wildlife
Calthorpe Broad is a haven for many different kinds of plants and animals. Its waters and surrounding areas support a rich variety of life.
Unique Water Plants
The broad is especially known for its diverse water plants. Some of the interesting plants you can find here include:
- Mare's-tail: A plant that grows partly underwater and partly above.
- Water violet: A beautiful plant with purple flowers that floats on the water.
- Blunt-leaved pondweed: A common water plant that provides food and shelter for aquatic animals.
- Spiked water-milfoil: Another important plant that grows in the water.
- Floating scirpus: A type of rush that can float on the water's surface.
- Yellow water-lily: A lovely lily with bright yellow flowers that floats on the water.
- Water soldier: This plant is nationally scarce, meaning it's rare in the UK. It looks a bit like a spiky aloe vera plant floating in the water.
Home for Animals
While the text mainly highlights plants, these plants create a perfect home for many animals. Fish, insects, and birds rely on these healthy plant communities for food and shelter. The broad's protected status helps these creatures thrive.
Access to Calthorpe Broad
It's important to know that Calthorpe Broad is private land. This means there is no public access to the site. This helps to protect the delicate environment and the rare species that live there from disturbance. Even though you can't visit, its protection is vital for the wider natural world.
