Knight and Bessborough Reservoirs facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Surrey |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 63.4 hectares (157 acres) |
| Notification | 1999 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Knight and Bessborough Reservoirs are two important water areas located near Walton-on-Thames in Surrey, England. Together, they cover about 63.4-hectare (157-acre) of land and water. These reservoirs are recognized as a special place for nature, known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). They are also part of an even larger protected area called the South West London Waterbodies Ramsar site and Special Protection Area.
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What Makes These Reservoirs Special?
Knight and Bessborough Reservoirs are very important for wildlife, especially for many kinds of water birds. They provide a safe home and feeding ground for thousands of birds, particularly during the colder winter months. Because of the large number of birds that visit, these reservoirs are given special protection.
Why Are They Protected?
The reservoirs have a few important titles that show how special they are:
- Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI): This means the area has important wildlife or geological features. In this case, it's about the amazing variety of birds and their habitats. The government protects these sites to make sure they stay healthy for nature.
- Ramsar Site: This is an international title given to wetlands that are important for water birds. The Ramsar Convention is an agreement between countries to protect these vital watery places around the world.
- Special Protection Area (SPA): This title comes from the European Union and focuses on protecting wild birds and their habitats. SPAs are part of a network of protected areas across Europe.
These titles mean that the reservoirs are carefully managed to keep them a perfect home for the birds that rely on them.
Amazing Birds You Might Find Here
The reservoirs are a haven for many different types of water birds. Some of the most notable visitors include:
- Northern Shovelers: These ducks are easily recognized by their large, shovel-shaped bills, which they use to filter food from the water. Knight and Bessborough Reservoirs are especially important because they host a nationally significant number of shovelers during winter.
- Gadwalls: These are dabbling ducks, meaning they feed by tipping their bodies into the water. They are often seen in large groups at the reservoirs.
- Great Cormorants: These large, dark birds are expert divers. They can often be seen swimming underwater to catch fish or perched with their wings spread out to dry.
- Common Goldeneyes: These diving ducks are known for their bright yellow eyes. The males have a striking black and white pattern.
These birds, along with many others, find the calm waters and rich food sources at Knight and Bessborough Reservoirs to be an ideal place to live and raise their young, or to rest during their long migrations.
Visiting the Reservoirs
It's important to know that Knight and Bessborough Reservoirs are on private land. This means there is no public access for visitors. The privacy helps to keep the area undisturbed, which is crucial for the many sensitive bird species that call it home. While you can't visit the reservoirs directly, their protection helps to support the wider natural environment in Surrey.
