Watercress Wildlife Site facts for kids
The Watercress Wildlife Site is a special place in St Albans, Hertfordshire, England. It's a Local Nature Reserve, which means it's a protected area for nature and wildlife. This site is about 1.2 hectares big, which is roughly the size of two football fields!
It's owned by the St Albans City Council, but a group called the Watercress Wildlife Association takes care of it. This group is a registered charity, meaning they work to help nature without making a profit. The site is located right next to the Alban Way (a walking and cycling path), the River Ver, and some houses on Riverside Road.
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What is the Watercress Wildlife Site?
The Watercress Wildlife Site is a protected area where plants and animals can live safely. It's a great spot for people to connect with nature and learn about local wildlife. Being a Local Nature Reserve means it's important for both nature conservation and for people to enjoy.
A Look Back: From Farm to Nature Reserve
Before 1972, this area was very different. It was used to grow watercress, a leafy green plant often used in salads. There were many watercress farms in this part of England.
After 1972, the land changed. Some parts became small gardens called allotments, where people could grow their own food. Sadly, some areas also had rubbish dumped on them.
Then, in 1991, something great happened! The St Albans City Council gave the Watercress Wildlife Association permission to use the land. This group worked hard to clean up the site and turn it into the beautiful nature reserve you see today. They slowly took over the allotments to make more space for wildlife.
Who Manages the Site?
The Watercress Wildlife Site is managed by the Watercress Wildlife Association. This group is made up of volunteers who love nature. They work hard to keep the site healthy for all the plants and animals that live there. They also help people learn about the wildlife and how to protect it.
Amazing Animals and Plants
This nature reserve is home to many different kinds of wildlife. You might spot some interesting birds like water rails, which are shy birds that hide in the reeds. You could also see bright blue kingfishers darting over the water, or little grebes, which are small diving birds.
If you're lucky, you might even see a muntjac deer. These are small deer that are common in England. The site's mix of water, plants, and quiet spots makes it a perfect home for all these creatures.
Visiting the Site
The Watercress Wildlife Site is a lovely place to visit. You can find the entrance where Riverside Road and Cornwall Road meet.
When you visit, you'll find some helpful things to make your trip better. There's a special hide, which is a small building where you can watch birds without disturbing them. There are also seating areas where you can rest and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. An information board helps you learn more about the site and its wildlife.
