North Uist Machair and Islands facts for kids
Quick facts for kids North Uist Machair and Islands |
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Machair and beach on the island of Boreray, one of the sites that make up the North Uist Machair and Islands
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| Location | Outer Hebrides, Scotland |
| Nearest city | Lochmaddy |
| Area | 47.05 km2 (18.17 sq mi) |
| Established | 22 July 1999 |
| Governing body | Scottish Natural Heritage |
The North Uist Machair and Islands is a special place in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. It is a protected wetland area, which means it's a very important natural space. This area is made up of seven different parts, covering a total of 4,705 hectares. That's about 11,626 acres!
These parts include four spots on the west and north coasts of North Uist. They also include the whole island of Boreray and parts of Berneray and Pabbay. These islands are all found in a watery channel called the Sound of Harris.
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What is Machair?
The main type of land here is called machair. Machair is a special kind of low-lying, fertile grassland. It grows on sandy soil, usually near the coast. This soil is made from crushed seashells. Machair is very rare and is mostly found in Scotland and Ireland.
Habitats You Can Find
The North Uist Machair and Islands has many different natural homes for plants and animals. These include:
- Sand dunes: Hills of sand shaped by the wind.
- Acid grassland: Grassy areas with soil that is a bit sour.
- Freshwater wetlands: Areas like marshes and fens that are full of water. These wetlands are rich in nutrients, which helps many plants grow.
- Wet and dry machair: Different types of machair, some wetter than others.
- Saltmarsh: Areas of land that are sometimes covered by seawater.
Why This Area is Protected
This special place has been protected since July 22, 1999. It is recognized as a Ramsar Site. A Ramsar Site is a wetland that is important around the world. This protection helps to keep the area safe for its unique wildlife and habitats.
Home for Amazing Birds
The North Uist Machair and Islands is a very important home for many birds. Some of these birds are important to Scotland or even to the whole world. You might see:
- Greylag geese: Large, grey-brown geese.
- Barnacle geese: Smaller geese with black and white markings.
- Dunlin: Small wading birds with long beaks.
- Corncrake: Shy birds that hide in tall grass and make a loud, creaking call.
- Sanderling: Small, pale shorebirds that run along the edge of the waves.
Rare Plants
Besides the birds, this area is also home to a very rare plant. It's called the slender naiad (its scientific name is Najas flexilis). This plant grows underwater and is quite special.
International Recognition
The North Uist Machair and Islands is not just a Ramsar Site. It has also been named a Special Area of Conservation. This means it's part of a network of important natural sites across Europe. These special titles help make sure this beautiful and important area is looked after for many years to come.
