Stocker's Lake facts for kids
Stocker's Lake is a large lake near Rickmansworth, in Hertfordshire, England. It covers about 90 acres (37.5 hectares). This beautiful area is part of the Colne Valley Regional Park. It is also a special place called a Local Nature Reserve.
A long time ago, Stocker's Lake was a gravel pit. This means people dug out gravel from the ground here. After they finished, the pit filled with water, creating the lake we see today.
The lake belongs to a company called Affinity Water. However, it is looked after by the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust. They get help from a group called the Friends of Stocker's Lake. Together, they work to protect the lake and its wildlife.
Contents
What is Stocker's Lake Like?
Stocker's Lake has several small islands. These islands provide safe places for birds and other animals. The land around the lake is covered with different kinds of trees. You can find mixed woodland, which means many types of trees grow there.
There are also areas of alder carr and willow scrub. Alder carr is a type of wet woodland where alder trees grow well. Willow scrub means there are many small willow trees and bushes. Close by, you can also find reedbeds at Springwell Lake. Reedbeds are areas full of tall grass-like plants called reeds.
Amazing Wildlife at the Lake
Stocker's Lake is a very important place for animals, especially birds. It is located on a major bird pathway called the north-south flyway of the Colne Valley. This means many birds fly over this area when they travel between their summer and winter homes.
Birds Visiting in Spring
In spring, many small birds called passerines pass through the area. These are migratory birds, meaning they travel long distances. They might stop at Stocker's Lake to rest and find food before continuing their journey.
Birds Visiting in Winter
During winter, the lake becomes a busy home for many waterfowl. Waterfowl are birds that live on or near water, like ducks, geese, and swans. The lake is full of these birds in the colder months.
Special Nesting Birds
Some birds even build their nests at Stocker's Lake. Common terns, which are seabirds, build their nests on special floating rafts. These rafts are placed on the lake just for them. The lake also has the largest heronry in Hertfordshire. A heronry is a place where many herons gather to build their nests. More than 60 different kinds of birds are known to breed at Stocker's Lake.
How to Visit Stocker's Lake
You can visit Stocker's Lake at any time. The main way to get into the reserve is through Rickmansworth Aquadrome. There is a car park at the Aquadrome where you can leave your car. Another option for parking is along Springwell Lane.
