Foxcote Reservoir and Wood facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Buckinghamshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 48.3 hectares |
| Notification | 1984 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Foxcote Reservoir and Wood is a special natural area in Buckinghamshire, England. It covers about 48.3 hectares, which is like 120 football fields! This site is officially known as a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest, or SSSI for short.
A large part of this area, about 34 hectares, is looked after by the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust. They help protect the amazing plants and animals that live here.
What is an SSSI?
An SSSI is a place in the United Kingdom that is protected by law. It's recognized for its unique wildlife, plants, or important geological features. These sites are like natural treasures that need extra care.
Protecting them helps make sure that rare species and important habitats can survive and thrive for the future. Foxcote Reservoir and Wood is special because of its biological importance.
Why is Foxcote Reservoir Special?
The reservoir at Foxcote was built in 1956. It was made by building a dam across a small stream that flows into the River Great Ouse. This created a large body of water.
This reservoir is very important for birds, especially during the colder winter months. Many different kinds of wildfowl come here to find food and shelter.
Wildlife at Foxcote
Foxcote Reservoir is a fantastic spot for birdwatching. It's a key place for certain types of ducks and swans.
- Shoveler ducks: These ducks have a very distinctive, large, shovel-shaped bill. They use it to filter small plants and animals from the water.
- Bewick's swans: These beautiful white swans travel long distances to spend their winters here. They are a smaller type of swan.
Besides the reservoir, the area also has different habitats. There are woodlands, open meadows, and small ponds. These varied areas support many different creatures.
Plants to Spot
The land around the reservoir is home to some interesting plants. These plants add to the rich biodiversity of the site.
- Greater butterfly orchid: This is a beautiful wild orchid. It has delicate white flowers that look a bit like butterflies.
- Paris quadrifolia: Also known as Herb Paris, this plant is quite unique. It usually has four leaves arranged in a cross shape, with a single green flower in the middle.
These plants show how diverse and healthy the ecosystem is at Foxcote Reservoir and Wood.
