West Thurrock Lagoon and Marshes facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Essex |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 66.1 hectares |
| Notification | 1991 |
| Location map | Magic map |
West Thurrock Lagoon and Marshes is a very special place in West Thurrock, Essex. It covers about 66 hectares, which is like 160 football fields! This area is protected because it's a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it's super important for nature, especially for the plants and animals that live there.
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Why West Thurrock is Special
This area is a "biological" SSSI. This means it's recognized for its amazing wildlife. It's a key spot for many birds, especially during the colder months.
A Home for Birds
The mudflats here are like a giant restaurant for birds. Many waders (birds that walk in shallow water) and wildfowl (like ducks and geese) come here in winter. They find lots of food in the soft mud.
Birds That Breed Here
Some birds even choose West Thurrock Lagoon and Marshes as their breeding ground. You might spot Reed warblers, sedge warblers, and bearded tits. They build their nests in the tall reed beds around the lagoon.
Birds That Rest Here
Other birds use the shallow waters and grassy islands to rest. Common teals, a type of duck, and Grey Herons often roost here. Roosting means they gather to rest or sleep, especially at night.
Stone Ness Saltings
Part of this special area is called Stone Ness saltings. This is a large salt marsh. A salt marsh is a coastal wetland that is flooded by the sea during high tides. It's a tough place to live, but some plants love it. Here, you'll find lots of sea club-rush. This plant is very good at growing in salty soil.
Protecting This Natural Treasure
Places like West Thurrock Lagoon and Marshes need to be protected. They are important for the environment and for all the creatures that call them home.
Buglife's Fight for Nature
A conservation group called Buglife worked hard to protect this site. They fought against plans to build on the land. In 2014, they won! This meant the West Thurrock Lagoon and Marshes could stay a safe home for wildlife.
Exploring West Thurrock Marshes
If you want to visit this amazing place, you can! The Thames Estuary Path goes right through West Thurrock Marshes. This path lets you walk and explore the area, seeing some of the wildlife up close. It's a great way to enjoy nature and learn about this important habitat.
