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This large expanse of water is a valuable refuge for waterfowl. The reservior is important as it acts as a refuge for large numbers of wintering ducks, particularly mallard, shoveller, teal, wigeon, pochard, tufted duck and goldeneye. The area is of national importance for its summer populations of moulting pochard, tufted duck and common tern. The marginal vegetation supports many breeding bird species. Around the margins of the reservior are large marshy areas where many species of marsh plants flourish, including reedmace, reed canary grass and various sedges. Warblers are attracted in spring, including sedge warbler, reed warbler, garden warbler, chiff chaff, black cap and willow warbler. There is a small reed warbler colony and twenty species of butterfly and fourteen species of dragonfly have been recorded. The site is leased from Three Valleys Water. |
The management regime is designed to encourage diversity of species.
Other management includes a major woodland programme whereby the existing conifer woodland has been thinned and many new native species planted. |
| Visiting |
From Watford take the A41 towards Barnet. This road passes over the
M1 motorway and then after about 1 kilometre, turn left into Hilfield
Lane. The entrance is about 300 metres on the right. Park in the Water
Company car park and ensure the gate is locked behind you. |
As a reservoir the reserve has to be kept locked. A key is ONLY available
to HMWT members from Grebe House, St Albans, so it is essential to phone
the Trust (Mon-Friday) on 01727 858901 to make arrangements before visiting
the site. |
Autumn/winter/spring. |
Large flight of steps on reservoir wall. Take care as deep water. |
Good walking shoes recommended. Wellingtons if wet. |