Spencer Road Wetlands facts for kids
Spencer Road Wetlands is a special natural area in Mitcham in the London Borough of Sutton. It is a "Local Nature Reserve," which means it's a protected place for wildlife. This important site is owned by Sutton Council and looked after by the London Wildlife Trust. They work together to keep it a safe home for many plants and animals.
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What is Spencer Road Wetlands?
Spencer Road Wetlands is a one-hectare (about 2.5 acres) piece of land. It's a fantastic example of a wetland habitat right in the city. Wetlands are areas where water covers the soil, or is present either at or near the surface of the soil all year or for varying periods of time during the year. They are very important for many different kinds of plants and animals.
History of the Wetlands
For many years, from about 1895 to 1959, this area was used for growing watercress. Watercress is a leafy green plant that grows in water and is often used in salads. The site was intentionally flooded to help the watercress grow.
After 1959, the watercress farming stopped, and the land was left on its own. Over time, willow trees started to grow, turning parts of the area into woodland. In 1991, the London Wildlife Trust began to manage the site. They help to protect and improve the natural habitats there.
Wildlife at Spencer Road Wetlands
Spencer Road Wetlands is home to a wide variety of plants and animals because it has different types of habitats.
Plant Life
The wetlands have several interesting plant areas:
- Reed Swamps: These are areas filled with tall grasses called reeds. They are important for many insects and birds.
- Wetland Vegetation: This includes many plants that love to grow in wet, marshy conditions.
- Woodland: Parts of the site are covered with trees, especially willow trees that grew after the watercress farming stopped.
- Sedge-bed: Sedges are grass-like plants that also thrive in wet areas, providing different types of cover for wildlife.
- Pond: The pond is a vital part of the wetland, providing a home for aquatic insects and a place for birds to drink and find food.
Animal Life
Many different creatures can be found living in the wetlands:
- Insects: You might spot interesting moths like the twin-spotted wainscot and crescent moths. These insects are an important food source for other animals.
- Birds: The wetlands are a great spot for birdwatching. Some of the birds that live or visit here include the grey heron, which is a large wading bird, the Eurasian reed warbler, which likes to hide in the reeds, and the colourful kingfisher, often seen near the water.
Visiting the Wetlands
The entrance to Spencer Road Wetlands is located at the corner of Spencer Road and Wood Street. However, the entrance is kept locked, and there is no public access to the site. This helps to protect the delicate habitats and the wildlife that lives there, ensuring they are not disturbed.
