Tickenham, Nailsea and Kenn Moors SSSI facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
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| Area of Search | Avon |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 51°25′34″N 2°48′25″W / 51.42623°N 2.80684°W |
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 129.4 hectares (1.294 km2; 0.500 sq mi) |
| Notification | 1995 |
Tickenham, Nailsea and Kenn Moors is a very special place for nature. It's known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it's protected by law because it has important plants, animals, or geology. This SSSI covers a large area of 129.4 hectares (about 320 acres). It was officially recognized as a special site in 1995.
Contents
What is Tickenham, Nailsea and Kenn Moors?
This SSSI is located in North Somerset, England. You can find it between the villages of Tickenham, Nailsea, and Kenn. It's part of a bigger area called the North Somerset Levels, which is a flat, low-lying region.
A Special Place for Nature
The land here is unique because of its soil. It has two main types: clay soils and peat soils. Clay soils are heavy and can hold a lot of water. Peat soils are made from old, decayed plants and are very spongy. This mix of soils creates a perfect home for many different kinds of plants and animals.
Waterways and Wetlands
The area is kept wet by a network of waterways. There are large drainage channels called "rhynes" and smaller ditches in the fields. These channels help to manage the water levels across the land. They also create a fantastic habitat for many creatures. The water in these rhynes and ditches is full of life.
Amazing Bugs and Plants
The Tickenham, Nailsea and Kenn Moors SSSI is famous for its incredible wildlife. It has a huge variety of plants and tiny creatures called invertebrates. Invertebrates are animals without backbones, like insects, spiders, and snails.
Meet the Great Silver Water Beetle
One of the most exciting finds here is the large number of beetles. Scientists have found at least 12 types of beetles that are rare in the UK. Two of these beetle species are considered nationally rare. The most famous resident is the Great Silver Water Beetle. This amazing insect is the largest water beetle found in Britain! It's a truly special creature that thrives in the wet environment of the moors.
