Sandwich Bay to Hacklinge Marshes facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
Pegwell Bay
|
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| Area of Search | Kent |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological Geological |
| Area | 1,790.1 hectares (4,423 acres) |
| Notification | 1993 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Sandwich Bay to Hacklinge Marshes is a very special place in Kent, England. It covers a large area of about 1,790 hectares (that's like 4,423 football fields!). This area is known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It's special because it has important plants, animals, and geological features (like rocks and fossils).
This amazing natural spot stretches between the towns of Deal and Sandwich. It's not just one special place, but many! Parts of it are also recognized as a Ramsar site (important wetlands), a Special Area of Conservation, and a Special Protection Area for birds. It even includes a National Nature Reserve, a Kent Wildlife Trust nature reserve, and a Local Nature Reserve.
Why Sandwich Bay to Hacklinge Marshes Is Special
This area is important for two main reasons: its amazing wildlife and its ancient rocks. Scientists study this site to learn more about nature and Earth's history.
Incredible Plants and Animals
Sandwich Bay to Hacklinge Marshes is home to many rare and important living things.
- Plants: Over 30 different types of plants found here are considered nationally rare or scarce. This means they are not found very often in other parts of the country.
- Invertebrates: There are 168 kinds of invertebrates (small animals without backbones, like insects and spiders) that are also nationally rare or scarce. This shows how important the habitat is for these tiny creatures.
- Birds: Many birds come to this area during the winter. The number of birds that visit is so high that it's considered nationally important. This makes it a key place for birdwatching and protecting bird populations.
Ancient Geological Discoveries
The site is also very important for understanding Earth's past.
- Fish Fossils: Scientists have found many different kinds of fish fossils here. These fossils are incredibly old, dating back about 57 million years!
- Thanetian Period: These fossils come from a time called the Thanetian period. This was a long time ago, when different types of fish swam in ancient seas. Studying these fossils helps us learn about how life on Earth has changed over millions of years.
What Are These Special Designations?
You might have seen many official names for this site. Here's what some of them mean:
Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)
A SSSI is a special area in the UK that has important wildlife or geological features. The government protects these sites to make sure they are looked after for the future. Sandwich Bay to Hacklinge Marshes was officially made a SSSI in 1993.
Geological Conservation Review (GCR) Site
A GCR site is a place that is very important for understanding geology. This means it has special rocks, fossils, or landforms that help scientists learn about Earth's history. Sandwich Bay to Hacklinge Marshes has two of these important geological spots.
Nature Conservation Review (NCR) Site
An NCR site is a place that is very important for its wildlife. It's like a top-grade area for nature. Most of Sandwich Bay to Hacklinge Marshes is a Grade I NCR site, meaning it's one of the best places for nature in the country.
Ramsar Site
A Ramsar site is a wetland area that is important around the world. Wetlands are places like marshes, bogs, or areas where water covers the land. They are vital for many birds and other wildlife.
Special Area of Conservation (SAC)
An SAC is a place protected by European laws because it has rare or threatened habitats and species. It helps to protect biodiversity across Europe.
Special Protection Area (SPA)
An SPA is an area protected for its birds. These sites are chosen because they are important for rare or migrating bird species.
National Nature Reserve (NNR)
A National Nature Reserve is one of the best places for wildlife and geology in England. They are managed to protect nature and allow people to visit and learn.
Kent Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve
The Kent Wildlife Trust is a charity that works to protect wildlife in Kent. They manage some areas as nature reserves to help plants and animals thrive.
Local Nature Reserve (LNR)
A Local Nature Reserve is a place that is important for wildlife and is managed by local councils. They often provide opportunities for people to enjoy nature close to home.
