Hilfield Park Reservoir facts for kids
Hilfield Park Reservoir is a large lake built in 1953 near the towns of Bushey and Elstree in Hertfordshire, England. It covers an area of about 76 hectares (that's like 189 football fields!). This important reservoir is owned by Affinity Water, a company that supplies water.
In 1969, Hilfield Park Reservoir was officially named a Local Nature Reserve (LNR). This means it's a special place protected for its wildlife and natural beauty, and it's open for people to learn about nature. It's managed by the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust (HMWT), a group dedicated to protecting local wildlife. Did you know it's the oldest Local Nature Reserve in all of Hertfordshire?
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Discover Hilfield Park Reservoir
Hilfield Park Reservoir is much more than just a water supply; it's a thriving home for many different kinds of animals and plants. It's a fantastic example of how human-made structures can also become important natural habitats.
Why is Hilfield Park Reservoir Important?
This reservoir is a very important spot for birds, especially those that love water. It's recognized as a nationally important site for several duck species, including pochards and tufted ducks. It's also a key place for common terns, which are graceful birds known for diving for fish. Other important birds you might find here include mallards, shovellers (with their unique shovel-shaped bills), and teals.
The edges of the reservoir have marshy areas. These wet, muddy spots are perfect for many birds to build their nests and raise their young. They are also home to special marsh plants like reedmace (which looks like a brown hot dog on a stick!) and reed canarygrass. These plants provide shelter and food for the wildlife.
A Rare Bird Visitor
In 2011, something very exciting happened at the reservoir! A very rare bird called an eastern crowned warbler was found there. It was caught and "ringed" (given a small, harmless band on its leg for tracking). This was a huge discovery because it was only the second time this type of bird had ever been seen in Britain! It shows just how important Hilfield Park Reservoir is for bird migration and rare visitors.
Visiting Hilfield Park Reservoir
Because Hilfield Park Reservoir is such a special and protected place for wildlife, access is carefully managed. The site is usually kept locked to protect the animals and plants from disturbance. Only members of the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust (HMWT) are allowed to visit, and they often do so for wildlife observation or conservation work. This helps ensure the reservoir remains a safe haven for its many inhabitants.
