Crostwick Marsh facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Norfolk |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 11.6 hectares (29 acres) |
| Notification | 1985 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Crostwick Marsh is a special natural area in Crostwick, a village north of Norwich in Norfolk, England. It covers about 11.6 hectares, which is roughly the size of 28 football fields! This marsh is officially known as a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because it's home to many important plants and animals.
It's also part of bigger protected areas. These include the Broadland Ramsar site, a Special Protection Area, and The Broads Special Area of Conservation. These titles mean it's recognized as important for nature not just in the UK, but sometimes worldwide!
Contents
What Makes Crostwick Marsh Special?
Crostwick Marsh is located in the valley of the Crostwick Beck. This small stream eventually flows into the River Bure. The marsh has a mix of different natural habitats. These include areas of damp grassland and tall fen. Fens are like bogs, but they get their water from groundwater, not just rain.
What Kinds of Habitats Are Here?
You can find several types of habitats at Crostwick Marsh:
- Damp Grassland: Areas where the ground is often wet, perfect for certain types of grasses and wildflowers.
- Tall Fen: These are wetlands with tall grasses and reeds. They are very important for wildlife.
- Species-Rich Fen Grassland: This means there are many different kinds of plants growing here.
- Alder Carr: This is a type of wet woodland. It's often found on waterlogged ground, with trees like alder growing there.
- Scrub: Areas with bushes and small trees.
- Dykes: These are small ditches or channels that help manage water levels.
Who Lives at Crostwick Marsh?
Because of all these different habitats, Crostwick Marsh is a great place for wildlife. It's especially known for its variety of breeding marshland birds. Many different bird species come here to build their nests and raise their young.
Visiting Crostwick Marsh
If you want to explore Crostwick Marsh, you can access it by a public footpath. This path runs between North Walsham Road and Granny Bard's Lane. It's a great way to see some of the unique nature found in Norfolk.
