Chippenham Fen and Snailwell Poor's Fen, Protected wetland near Fordham, England.
Chippenham Fen and Snailwell Poor's Fen is a nature reserve near Fordham comprising marshes, reed beds, wet meadows, and established woodlands. The site covers approximately 156 hectares with distinct wetland zones that support different plant and animal communities.
The site gained designation as a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1988 due to its rare habitats. It was later recognized internationally as a Ramsar site in 1992 for its importance to wetland conservation.
The reed beds and wet meadows are maintained to attract rare bird species and insects that depend on this type of habitat. The site has become a refuge for species that have disappeared from surrounding areas.
Check beforehand if public access is available, as the reserve is primarily managed for scientific research and may have restrictions. Contacting the relevant conservation authority in advance will clarify current access conditions and any requirements.
Water buffalo graze on the site and help manage vegetation growth through natural grazing behavior. This unconventional grazing approach preserves open habitat zones and encourages specialized fen plants to thrive.
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