Potter and Scarning Fens, East Dereham facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
Scarning Fen
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| Area of Search | Norfolk |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 6.2 hectares (15 acres) |
| Notification | 1984 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Potter and Scarning Fens, East Dereham, is a very special natural area. It covers about 6.2 hectares, which is like 15 football fields! This important wetland is located south of Dereham in Norfolk, England. It is officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means the government has recognized it as one of the best places for wildlife in the country.
Contents
What Makes These Fens Special?
Potter and Scarning Fens are part of a larger protected area. This area is called the Norfolk Valley Fens Special Area of Conservation. This title means it's important not just for England, but for all of Europe! It protects special habitats and rare species.
One part of this site, Scarning Fen, is extra special. It's a "Nature Conservation Review site, Grade I." This is like getting a top grade for being an amazing natural spot. The Norfolk Wildlife Trust helps manage and protect Scarning Fen. They work hard to keep it healthy for all the plants and animals that live there.
Discovering Fen Habitats
These fens are unique because they are "calcareous fens." This means the soil has a lot of calcium. This calcium comes from rocks like chalk or limestone. The fens are built on peat, which is made from old, decayed plants. This special soil mix creates a perfect home for many different kinds of plants.
You can find an amazing variety of plants here. There are many types of mosses and liverworts. Some of these plants are quite rare and hard to find elsewhere.
Amazing Wildlife: Insects and More
The fens are also home to some very special insects. One of the most exciting is the small red damselfly. This tiny insect is nationally rare. This means it's not found in many other places in the country. The fens provide the perfect watery habitat for these beautiful damselflies to live and reproduce.
Visiting Potter and Scarning Fens
Good news for nature lovers! These fens are open to the public. This means you can visit and explore this wonderful natural area. It's a great place to see rare plants and insects up close. Remember to respect the wildlife and the environment when you visit.
