Chippenham Fen and Snailwell Poor's Fen facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
Water buffaloes in Chippenham Fen
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| Area of Search | Cambridgeshire |
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| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 155.9 hectares |
| Notification | 1988 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
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Designations
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| Official name: Chippenham Fen | |
| Designated: | 11 March 1992 |
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| Reference #: | 544 |
Chippenham Fen and Snailwell Poor's Fen is a very special nature area in Cambridgeshire, England. It covers about 155.9 hectares, which is like 385 football fields! This amazing place is located south-east of Fordham. It is recognized as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because of its incredible natural importance.
Contents
What Makes Chippenham Fen Special?
Chippenham Fen is super important for its many different types of wetland habitats. These habitats are home to a wide variety of birds and insects. Natural England, an organization that protects nature, says this site is important for the whole country.
A Home for Rare Wildlife
This fen has many different kinds of plants and animals. You can find several uncommon species in its damp meadows. It's also a great place for many types of birds to breed. Plus, it's home to some rare spiders and moths.
Diverse Habitats
The fen has a mix of wet and damp areas. This creates different environments for various plants and animals.
- Wetlands: These areas are often flooded or very marshy. They are perfect for water-loving plants.
- Damp Meadows: These are grassy areas that stay moist. They support unique wildflowers and grasses.
Amazing Plants and Animals
Chippenham Fen is like a giant outdoor classroom for nature lovers.
- Birds: Many different bird species come here to nest and raise their young. You might spot ducks, waders, and other wetland birds.
- Insects: The fen is buzzing with insect life. This includes many types of butterflies, dragonflies, and especially rare moths.
- Spiders: Some very rare spider species live here, making it a key place for spider research.
Protecting This Special Place
Chippenham Fen has several important protections to keep it safe.
- Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI): This means it's one of the best places in the UK for wildlife or geology. It was given this protection in 1988.
- Nature Conservation Review Site: This identifies it as one of the most important places for nature in Britain. Chippenham Fen is a Grade I site, meaning it's of the highest importance.
- Ramsar Wetland Site: This is an international protection for wetlands that are important for water birds. Chippenham Fen became a Ramsar site in 1992.
- Special Area of Conservation (SAC): This is a European protection for habitats and species that are rare or threatened. Chippenham Fen is part of a larger SAC called Fenland SAC.
Natural England helps manage and look after Chippenham Fen. Their work ensures that this special environment stays healthy for all the plants and animals that live there.
Visiting Chippenham Fen
Access to Chippenham Fen is usually by permit only. These permits are mainly given to people who are doing research on the site. This helps protect the delicate environment and its rare species from disturbance.
