List of Sites of Special Scientific Interest in Angus and Dundee facts for kids
Scotland is home to many amazing natural places, and some of the most special ones are called Sites of Special Scientific Interest, or SSSIs for short. These are areas that are protected because they have unique plants, animals, rocks, or landforms. This article will tell you about the SSSIs found in the beautiful areas of Angus and Dundee.
Contents
What are Special Scientific Interest Sites?
A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) is a special area of land or water. It is recognized and protected by law because of its important natural features. These features can be rare plants, unique animals, interesting rocks, or special landforms. In Scotland, these sites are identified by an organization called NatureScot. They make sure these places are looked after.
Why are these places important?
SSSIs are super important for many reasons.
- Protecting Nature: They help protect rare or endangered plants and animals. These places are like safe homes for species that might struggle elsewhere.
- Studying Our World: Scientists use SSSIs to study nature. They learn about how ecosystems work, how plants grow, and how animals live. This helps us understand our planet better.
- Preserving History: Some SSSIs protect important geological features. These can be ancient rocks, fossils, or landforms shaped by ice ages. They tell us about Earth's long history.
- Enjoying Nature: Many SSSIs are also places where people can enjoy nature. You can often visit them for walks, birdwatching, or just to appreciate the natural beauty. It's important to always follow signs and rules to protect these sensitive areas.
Special Places in Angus and Dundee
Angus and Dundee are areas on the east coast of Scotland. They have a mix of different landscapes, from rugged coastlines to rolling hills and calm lochs (lakes). This variety means there are many different types of SSSIs here. Each one is special for its own reasons.
Some of the SSSIs in Angus and Dundee include:
- Auchterhouse Hill
- Balloch Moss
- Balshando Bog
- Barry Links
- Blacklaw Hill Mire
- Caenlochan
- Carrot Hill Meadow
- Craigs of Lundie and Ardgarth Loch
- Crossbog Pinewood
- Den of Airlie
- Den of Fowlis
- Den of Ogil
- Dilty Moss
- Dryleys Brick Pit
- Dun's Dish
- Easthaven
- Elliot Links
- Fafernie
- Forest Muir
- Gagie Marsh
- Gannochy Gorge
- Garbh Choire
- Glen Callater
- Inner Tay Estuary
- Lairds Loch
- Little Ballo
- Loch Brandy
- Loch of Kinnordy
- Loch of Lintrathen
- Lochindores
- Long Loch of Lundie
- Monifieth Bay
- Montrose Basin
- North Esk and West Water Palaeochannels
- Red Craig
- Redmyre
- Rescobie and Balgavies Lochs
- Restenneth Moss
- Rickle Craig - Scurdie Ness
- Rossie Moor
- Round Loch of Lundie
- St Cyrus and Kinnaber Links
- Turin Hill
- Whitehouse Den
- Whiting Ness - Ethie Haven Coast
How can you help protect SSSIs?
Even though SSSIs are protected by law, everyone can help look after them.
- Stay on paths: This helps protect delicate plants and habitats.
- Take your litter home: Rubbish can harm wildlife and spoil the beauty of the area.
- Respect wildlife: Keep a safe distance from animals and don't disturb them.
- Follow signs: These signs are there to help you enjoy the area safely and protect its special features.
By understanding and respecting these special places, we can all help make sure they remain amazing for future generations.
