Loughborough Meadows facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
A pedestrian tunnel leading to Loughborough Meadows.
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| Area of Search | Leicestershire |
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| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 60.5 hectares (149 acres) |
| Notification | 1987 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Loughborough Meadows is a special natural area in Leicestershire, England. It covers about 60.5 hectares (that's like 150 football fields!). This site is located just outside the town of Loughborough.
It's known as a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it's a very important place for plants, animals, and habitats. A big part of the meadows, about 35.3 hectares, is looked after by the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust. They manage it as a nature reserve.
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What Makes Loughborough Meadows Special?
Loughborough Meadows is the largest area of its kind in the whole county. It's an "unimproved alluvial flood meadow." This means it's a natural grassland that often gets flooded by rivers. It hasn't been changed much by farming or building.
The floods bring rich soil, making the land very fertile. This creates a unique environment for specific plants and animals.
Plants You Might See
In the wetter parts of the meadows, you'll find lots of certain grasses. Two common ones are creeping bent and marsh foxtail. These plants love damp conditions.
A small stream, or brook, runs through the meadows. Along its banks, you can also see large areas of marsh foxtail growing. These plants are important food and shelter for many creatures.
Amazing Wildlife
Loughborough Meadows is a fantastic place for birds. It has a special field where birds come to breed. You might spot lapwings here. These birds are known for their fancy crests and tumbling flight.
Another bird that breeds at the meadows is the redshank. Redshanks are wading birds with long red legs. They make a distinctive whistling call. These birds need safe, quiet places like the meadows to raise their young.
Visiting Loughborough Meadows
Good news! You can visit Loughborough Meadows. There is public access to the site. This means you can explore and enjoy this beautiful natural area. It's a great spot for a walk or to watch wildlife. Remember to respect the nature reserve and its inhabitants.
