Cornmill Stream and Old River Lea facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Essex |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 24.6 hectares |
| Notification | 1986 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
The Cornmill Stream and Old River Lea is a special natural area in Waltham Abbey, Essex, England. It covers about 24.6 hectares, which is like 45 football fields! This place is protected because it's a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It's important for its amazing plants and animals, especially those living in and around the water.
Contents
Where is Cornmill Stream and Old River Lea?
This special area is located in Waltham Abbey. It's surrounded by water! To the north and west, you'll find a channel of the Old River Lea. This river used to be a border for the old Waltham Abbey Royal Gunpowder Mills. On the east side, the Cornmill Stream flows gently. The southern edge of the site is next to the B194 road, also known as Abbey View.
Amazing Wildlife and Plants
The Cornmill Stream and Old River Lea are slow-moving waterways. This makes them perfect homes for many different creatures. They have one of the most varied groups of invertebrates (animals without backbones) in all of Essex!
Dragonflies and Damselflies
You can spot many cool insects here. So far, eighteen different types of dragonflies and damselflies have been seen. One special kind is the White-legged Damselfly. This damselfly is quite rare and its numbers are going down across the country, making this site even more important for its survival.
Water Plants and Grasslands
The water in the streams and river is home to many different kinds of aquatic plants. These plants grow in the water or along its edges. Besides the water, there are also areas of rough grassland. These grassy spots are great places for insects and birds to find food and raise their young. It's a busy and lively place for nature!
