Lodmoor facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
The nature reserve
|
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| Area of Search | Dorset |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 50°37′52″N 2°26′31″W / 50.631°N 2.442°W |
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 71.5 hectares (0.715 km2; 0.276 sq mi) |
| Notification | 1952 |
Lodmoor is a really special place in Dorset, England. It's a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), which means it's protected because of its amazing wildlife. It's also a nature reserve run by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and a fun country park.
At Lodmoor, you can find a visitor centre, a model railway, and even a pitch and putt golf course. The SSSI part of Lodmoor is a wetland habitat. This means it's a wet, marshy area that is home to many native birds that are rare in the UK. Lots of birds that travel long distances also stop here on their journeys.
Contents
What is Lodmoor?
Lodmoor is a unique area that combines nature and fun activities. It's a place where you can learn about wildlife and also enjoy outdoor activities.
A Special Protected Area
A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) is a special area that is protected by law. This is because it has important plants, animals, or geological features. Lodmoor was given this special protection in 1952.
A Home for Birds
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) helps look after a big part of Lodmoor. They work to protect the birds and their homes. This makes Lodmoor a safe place for many different bird species.
Where is Lodmoor Located?
Lodmoor is about 1.6 kilometres (1 mile) east of Weymouth, a town in Dorset. It's close to the area called Preston. You can easily get to Lodmoor by following one of its three walking trails.
The nature area of Lodmoor has different types of wet land. These include reed beds, salt marshes, wet grasslands, and open water areas. It's separated from Weymouth Bay (the sea) by Greenhill beach and a road.
Amazing Wildlife at Lodmoor
Lodmoor is a very important place for wildlife, especially birds and insects. It's a great spot for birdwatching!
Rare Birds and Migratory Visitors
Some very rare bird species come to Lodmoor to breed and have their young. Many unusual migratory birds, which are birds that travel long distances, also visit Lodmoor. These include different types of waders, which are birds that feed in shallow water or mud.
Birds that breed at Lodmoor include:
Many different migratory waders visit Lodmoor, such as:
You might also spot some less common waders like the jack snipe, greenshank, and ruff.
Unique Insects
Lodmoor is also home to two rare insect species:
- The short-winged conehead (a type of bush-cricket)
- The lesser marsh grasshopper
The entire protected area of Lodmoor covers about 71.5 hectares (which is about 177 acres).
Fun at the Country Park
Besides being a wildlife haven, Lodmoor also has a country park with lots of fun things to do for families and visitors.
You can find:
- A cafe for snacks and drinks
- A visitors centre where you can learn more
- Picnic tables and barbecue areas
- A large grassy area for events like car rallies, summer fairs, and even circus shows
- An outdoor gym
- A 2-kilometre (1.2-mile) walking trail
- Children's play areas
- A Sea Life Centre
- A mini-golf course
- A Model World (with miniature displays)
- A Go-Kart circuit
- Bumper Boats
- A model railway
- A 9-hole pitch and putt golf course
- A Parkrun (a free, weekly 5k running event)
See also
In Spanish: Lodmoor para niños
