Bessborough Reservoir, lake in the United Kingdom
Bessborough Reservoir is a large water body in Surrey located between Walton and West Molesey, situated directly east of Knight Reservoir. The storage facility is managed by Thames Water and serves as part of a system that supplies water to London.
The reservoir was built in the 19th century as part of the infrastructure to secure London's water supply. Constructing reservoirs like this was a major step in water management during industrial growth.
The reservoir serves as a refuge for migrating birds and plays a role in their life cycle. The protective measures reflect how the community values the wildlife and natural environment that depend on this water body.
The reservoir is private land and not open to public visits in order to keep the wildlife undisturbed. The conservation measures restrict access to protect the birds and their habitat.
The reservoir is designated as a Ramsar Site and European Special Protection Area for wild birds, attracting thousands of waterfowl each year. Species like Northern Shovelers, Gadwalls, and Great Cormorants use the calm waters to rest during migration or overwinter.
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