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5). Southwick Coastal Reserve Status: SSSI Access: Open Map Reference: 84-NX 910 558 |
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Lying between the A710 and the sea, the Southwick Coastal Reserve is a narrow strip of land containing a large expanse of salt marsh, the merse, flanked by reedbeds and fens at the foot of cliffs rising to 40m. |
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The impressive cliffs were formed shortly after the end of the last glaciation when sea levels were higher than they are today. They are notable for their geological features, which include a natural rock arch, the 'Needles Eye' and isolated stacks, including 'Lot's Wife'. The volcanic rock is rich in mineral veins and includes an exposure of natural Uranium close to the 'Needles Eye'. Clinging to the cliff face and subject to the full fury of sea gales is an ancient Oak wood, one of the last remnants of the regions native woodlands. Its well developed understorey and ground flora includes Holly, Early-purple Orchids, Dog Violet and a host of other woodland plants, testifying to its age. In winter the saltmarsh or 'merse' attracts large numbers of waterbirds, including Greylag, Pink-footed and Barnacle Geese, which flock to the Solway. Surveys have recorded over seventy species of moth and butterfly on the reserve, including some local and national rarities such as Svensson's Copper Underwing, the Pale Pinion and the Pearl-bordered Fritillary. |
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Photo: D. Heward |
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