River Ray facts for kids
The River Ray is a river in south-east England. It is a smaller river that flows into a larger one called the River Cherwell. The River Ray starts its journey at a place called Quainton Hill in Buckinghamshire.
From there, it flows west through mostly flat land for about 25 kilometers (or 15 miles). Finally, it joins the River Cherwell near the village of Islip in Oxfordshire.
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What is the River Ray?
The River Ray is known as a 'tributary'. This means it's a stream or river that flows into a larger river. Think of it like a smaller branch joining a bigger tree trunk. The River Ray helps feed water into the River Cherwell, which then flows into the famous River Thames.
Where Does the River Ray Start?
The river begins at Quainton Hill. This is a small hill in the county of Buckinghamshire. The water collects from the land around the hill and starts to flow, forming the beginning of the River Ray.
Where Does the River Ray End?
After its journey, the River Ray meets the River Cherwell near Islip. This area is in Oxfordshire. The meeting point of two rivers is called a 'confluence'.
The River Ray and Otmoor Wetlands
The area around the River Ray doesn't have many people living in it. This is especially true in its lower parts. Here, the river flows through a special natural area called the Otmoor wetlands. Wetlands are areas of land that are covered by water, either all the time or just for parts of the year. They are very important for nature.
What are Wetlands?
Wetlands are like giant sponges. They soak up water and help prevent floods. They are also home to many different kinds of plants and animals. Birds, insects, and fish all rely on wetlands for their survival. Otmoor is a great example of a healthy wetland environment.
The New River Ray
In 1815, people dug a new channel for the river. This channel is between Charlton-on-Otmoor and Oddington. It is known as the New River Ray. The purpose of this new channel was to move a lot of the river's water. It helped to direct the water around the northern and southern edges of the Otmoor area. This was likely done to help manage the water levels in the wetlands or for farming.
Importance of the River Ray
Even though it's a smaller river, the River Ray plays an important role in the local environment. It provides water for the plants and animals in the Otmoor wetlands. It also contributes to the overall health of the larger River Cherwell and, eventually, the River Thames. Rivers like the Ray are vital for the natural world and for people living nearby.
