Willow Tree Fen facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Willow Tree Fen |
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| Type | Local Nature Reserve |
| Location | near Bourne and Spalding, south of the River Glen,England |
| OS grid | TF 181 213 |
| Area | 112.0 hectares (277 acres) |
| Managed by | Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust |
Willow Tree Fen is a special place for nature in England. It's known as a local nature reserve, which means it's protected to help wildlife thrive. This beautiful area covers over 112 hectares (about 277 acres) and is located near the towns of Bourne and Spalding, south of the River Glen.
The Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust bought the land in 2009. Before that, it was just a regular farm field. But the Trust worked hard to change it back into a natural wetland, called a fen. This transformation has made it a perfect home for many different plants and animals.
What is a Fen?
A fen is a type of wetland. Wetlands are areas where water covers the soil, or is present near the surface, for all or part of the year. Fens are unique because they get their water from groundwater, which is water stored underground. This water often has minerals in it, which helps special plants grow.
Fens are very important habitats. They provide homes for many different kinds of wildlife. They also help to clean water and can even store carbon, which is good for the environment.
A Home for Cranes
In 2020, something very exciting happened at Willow Tree Fen. A pair of common cranes successfully raised their young there! This was a huge moment because it was the first time these large, elegant birds had bred in Lincolnshire in over 400 years.
Cranes are known for their impressive size and beautiful calls. Their return to Willow Tree Fen shows how successful the project has been in bringing back important wildlife. It highlights the importance of creating and protecting natural habitats.
Protecting Nature
Willow Tree Fen is managed by the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust. This organization works to protect and restore wild places across Lincolnshire. They help to make sure that places like Willow Tree Fen remain safe and healthy for future generations to enjoy.
Even though the site had to close to visitors for a short time in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic in England, the work to protect nature continued. The success of the cranes breeding there is a wonderful example of how conservation efforts can make a real difference.
