Roswell Pits, Nature reserve in Ely, United Kingdom
Roswell Pits is a nature reserve in Ely made up of interconnected lakes created by past clay extraction work. These flooded pits have developed into wetland habitats that support a wide range of wildlife and plant species.
The site was created in the 1600s when workers dug clay needed for river management work in the surrounding area. After excavation stopped, the abandoned pits filled with water and gradually became home to wetland life.
Local environmental group Ely Wildspace actively participates in protecting the site's ecological balance through conservation initiatives and community engagement programs.
The reserve can be reached through Kiln Lane, which provides straightforward access and leads visitors to viewing areas around the lakes. Walking routes let you move between different vantage points to observe the water and surrounding habitats.
The clay deposits here hold fossils of dinosaurs, crocodiles, and turtles from millions of years ago. These remains reveal that the landscape was once very different, with a warm tropical environment.
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