Swallowfield Meadow facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Swallowfield Meadow |
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| Type | Local Nature Reserve |
| Location | Swallowfield, Berkshire |
| OS grid | SU 726 647 |
| Area | 0.7 hectares (1.7 acres) |
| Managed by | Swallowfield Parish Council |
Swallowfield Meadow is a special natural area in Swallowfield, Berkshire. It is a protected place called a Local Nature Reserve. This means it's a safe home for many different plants and animals. The meadow is about 0.7 hectares (or 1.7 acres) in size. It is looked after by the Swallowfield Parish Council.
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Welcome to Swallowfield Meadow!
Swallowfield Meadow is a wonderful spot to explore nature. It's a quiet place where you can see many different kinds of plants and animals. The meadow is located south of Reading.
What Makes This Place Special?
This nature reserve has lots of interesting features. You can find open meadows, perfect for wildflowers. There are also native hedgerows, which are like living fences made of bushes and trees. These provide shelter for animals.
The reserve also has a small group of trees called a copse. You'll find ditches and ponds that fill with water when it rains. All these different parts make the meadow a rich habitat for wildlife.
A Look Back in Time
Swallowfield Meadow wasn't always a nature reserve. In the past, this area was used as a coal yard. This was a place where coal was stored.
In the mid-1990s, houses were built in the village. At that time, this land was given to the Parish Council. They decided to turn it into a natural space for everyone to enjoy. On July 15, 2003, the area officially became a Local Nature Reserve. This made it a protected site for nature.
Who Lives Here? (Animals)
Many different animals call Swallowfield Meadow home. It's a great place to spot wildlife.
Meet the Mammals
One important mammal found here is the European water vole. These small, furry creatures are often seen near water. They are known for their brown fur and short tails. Water voles are a protected species in many places.
What Grows Here? (Plants)
Swallowfield Meadow is also rich in plant life. You can find many types of trees and flowering plants.
Amazing Trees
The reserve has several types of trees. These include the beautiful Silver birch (Betula pendula). You might also see the Acer campestre, which is a type of maple tree. Another common tree here is the Common hazel (Corylus avellana).
Beautiful Plants
Beyond the trees, many smaller plants grow in the meadow. You can find Leucanthemum vulgare, which is also known as the ox-eye daisy. Another pretty flower is Knautia arvensis, often called field scabious. These plants add color and support insects.
