The landscape of the Lee Valley has been dramatically altered during the last century. The traditional hay meadows of the valley floor have been replaced by new wetland habitats, created by the extraction of sand and gravel and the construction of water supply reservoirs. This mosaic of wetlands has created internationally important areas for birds and much of it has been designated as a Special Protection Area.
The modern Lee Valley, contains a diverse mix of wildlife habitats and nature reserves, supporting over 500 species of flowering plant. In recent times the valley has attracted over 200 species of birds, with around 150 occurring annually. Plus 35 species of mammal and over half the UK’s dragonfly species have been recorded.
Conserving biodiversity within the Regional Park doesn’t only mean protecting rare and endangered wildlife but also identifying what needs to be done to ensure that our most common and familiar wildlife remains abundant.
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