Woodberry Wetlands facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Woodberry Wetlands |
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Woodberry Wetlands East Reservoir
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| Location | Hackney, England |
| Nearest city | London |
| Established | 2014: Opened in spring 2016 |
| Governing body | London Wildlife Trust |
Woodberry Wetlands is a special nature reserve in London. It's located in Hackney, on the site of the East Reservoir. This area is so important for nature that it's called a Site of Metropolitan Importance.
For 200 years, this place was closed to the public. But on May 1, 2016, it opened its doors! It covers about 4.5 hectares (that's like 11 football fields!). The land belongs to Thames Water, but the London Wildlife Trust takes care of it.
After a big makeover, the East Reservoir is now a fantastic place to visit for free. The London Wildlife Trust worked with Thames Water, Berkeley Homes, and the Hackney Council to make it happen. They even got money from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
At Woodberry Wetlands, you can walk on a cool boardwalk. There's also a visitors' centre with a café, toilets, and a classroom. The New River Path runs along the north side of the reservoir. This path is part of a bike route that connects to Walthamstow Wetlands. It's called the 'Wetlands to Wetlands Greenway'.
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How Woodberry Wetlands Began
Before the 1600s, people in London got their water from the River Thames. They also used local streams, wells, and springs. But this water wasn't always clean.
In 1604, King James I decided to build something new. He wanted a special river to bring clean water to London. This was the start of the New River. It brought fresh water all the way from springs in Hertfordshire and Middlesex.
The Reservoirs' Role in London's Water
The Stoke Newington reservoirs were built in 1833. Their job was to store water from the New River. An interesting fact is that some of the stones used to line the reservoir banks came from London Bridge. London Bridge was being taken down at that time.
Today, the East Reservoir still holds water for a short time. This water then goes to the Walthamstow Reservoirs for cleaning. The west reservoir has been changed into a water sports centre.
Amazing Wildlife at Woodberry Wetlands
Woodberry Wetlands is a super important spot for wildlife. It's very close to the Lee Valley. This makes it a perfect resting place for birds that travel long distances. These birds fly to and from the Lee Valley Special Protection Area.
Birds You Might See
Many different kinds of waterfowl visit the wetlands. You might spot pochard, shoveler, and gadwall. Other wetland birds like grey heron, tufted duck, and reed bunting also live here. Keep an eye out for colourful kingfishers too!
Other Animals and Habitats
It's not just birds! You can also find damselflies, dragonflies, amphibians (like frogs and newts), and bats.
The London Wildlife Trust has worked hard to make the wetlands even better for animals. They have greatly expanded the reed beds. These tall plants provide more homes for wildlife. This helps birds like the reed bunting and reed warbler to breed here. It also gives a safe place for bitterns to spend the winter.
