Woodwalton Marsh facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Cambridgeshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 0.8 hectares |
| Notification | 1983 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Woodwalton Marsh is a special place in Cambridgeshire, England. It's a small area, about the size of one football field (0.8 hectares), that is protected because of its amazing plants and animals. It's called a 'Site of Special Scientific Interest' (SSSI) because it's so important for nature. The Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire helps look after it, making sure it stays a safe home for all its unique species.
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What is a Site of Special Scientific Interest?
A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) is a special area in the UK. It has been identified as being very important for its wildlife, geology, or landforms. These places are protected by law. This helps make sure their unique features are preserved for the future. Woodwalton Marsh was officially made an SSSI in 1983.
Amazing Plants of Woodwalton Marsh
Woodwalton Marsh is a grassland with many different kinds of plants. The soil here is called 'calcareous clay'. This means it has a lot of calcium carbonate, which is like chalk or limestone. This special soil helps certain plants grow really well.
Some of the cool plants you can find here include:
- Red fescue
- Quaking grass (it gets its name because its seed heads gently shake in the breeze!)
- Knapweed
- Cowslip
- Pepper saxifrage
- Green-winged orchid
- Sulphur clover (this plant is quite rare!)
Why are these plants special?
These plants are important because they create a rich habitat. They provide food and shelter for many insects and other small creatures. The mix of plants makes the marsh a healthy and diverse ecosystem.
Wonderful Wildlife: Butterflies
Besides the amazing plants, Woodwalton Marsh is also home to many different types of butterflies. Butterflies are important pollinators. They help plants make seeds and grow new plants. The wide variety of plants in the marsh means there's plenty of food for butterfly caterpillars and adult butterflies. This makes it a great spot for them to live and thrive.
Visiting Woodwalton Marsh
If you want to explore this special natural area, you can access Woodwalton Marsh from New Road. It's a great place to see unique plants and beautiful butterflies up close. Remember to always respect nature when you visit.
