Westhay Heath facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
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| Area of Search | Somerset |
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| Coordinates | 51°10′34″N 2°50′18″W / 51.17603°N 2.83823°W |
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 25.9 hectares (0.259 km2; 0.100 sq mi) |
| Notification | 1990 |
Westhay Heath is a very special nature area in Somerset, England. It covers about 25.9 hectares, which is roughly the size of 64 football fields! This amazing place is located about 2 kilometers west of a village called Westhay. In 1990, it was officially recognized as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because of its unique plants and animals.
What Makes Westhay Heath Special?
Westhay Heath is managed by the Somerset Wildlife Trust, a group dedicated to protecting nature. It's a mix of different natural areas, like tall fen vegetation, which is a type of wetland with specific plants. You can also find areas with bushes (scrub), wet grassland, small ditches, and tiny ponds.
A Home for Wildlife
This special mix of habitats is found in the middle of the Somerset Levels, which are large areas of flat, low-lying land. These lands were once used to dig up peat, a type of soil made from old, decayed plants. Over time, these dug-out areas have become perfect homes for many different creatures.
Westhay Heath is super important because it has a type of fen habitat that is rare across the country. This means it's a unique place where certain plants and animals can thrive.
Birds of Westhay Heath
The heath is especially important for birds. Many different kinds of birds come here to breed and raise their young. Other birds visit during the colder months, making it a busy spot all year round. It's a great place for birdwatchers to see a wide variety of species.
