Winterton-Horsey Dunes facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
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| Area of Search | Norfolk |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological Geological |
| Area | 427.0 hectares (1,055 acres) |
| Notification | 1989 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Winterton-Horsey Dunes is a really special place in Norfolk, near Great Yarmouth. It covers about 427 hectares (that's like 1,055 football fields!). This area is important for both its amazing plants and animals, and for its unique geology (how the land is formed).
It's officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it's protected because of its rare wildlife or geology. It's also a Special Area of Conservation and a National Nature Reserve, which are even more ways to protect its natural beauty.
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Discover Winterton-Horsey Dunes
Winterton-Horsey Dunes is a fantastic example of a coastal area. It has huge sand dunes, which are like natural hills made of sand. You can also find areas of wet grassland, called grazing marsh, and even some birch woodlands. It's part of the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which means it's a landscape that's protected for its natural beauty.
What Makes This Place Special?
This area is super important for many reasons. It's not just a pretty beach; it's a living laboratory!
Home to Rare Creatures
The dunes and marshes are home to some very special creatures. You might find rare types of insects and even a rare amphibian, which is an animal that lives both on land and in water, like a frog. There's also a rare butterfly that loves to live here. These animals need this specific type of habitat to survive.
How Dunes Are Formed
The site is also important for understanding how sand dunes work. Dunes are always changing and moving because of the wind and sea. Winterton Ness, a part of the site, is a Geological Conservation Review site. This means scientists study it to learn about the natural processes that shape our coastlines. It helps us understand how dunes grow, shrink, and move over time.
Visiting the Dunes
Good news! The beach at Winterton-Horsey Dunes is open to everyone. You can visit and enjoy the beautiful scenery, walk along the coast, and experience this amazing natural environment. Remember to always respect the wildlife and the natural landscape when you visit.
