Wildlife along the River Chet

The River Chet. Photographer Roger Harrison, www.loddon.org.uk

The River Chet, as part of the Broads, is a haven for wildlife, some of which no longer exists anywhere else in the UK - as in the example of the swallowtail butterfly and the Norfolk Hawker dragonfly.

Particularly rich in wildlife is the Hardley Flood Nature Reserve, one mile east of Loddon on the north bank. Here, thousands of gulls and many rare wildfowl descend every evening - a spectacular sight for passing boaters and walkers.

In terms of flora there are a whole host of species, including hemp agrimony, rare varieties of orchids and the more common yellow flag. On the water glide the commonly seen coots, moorhens and mallards, sometimes alongside elegant mute swans, or great crested grebes. And in the reeds and trees witness small bearded tits, bigger booming bitterns and herons.

Aquatic plants play a vital role in this freshwater system. Water soldier, holly-leaved naiad, waterlilies, hornwort and bladderwort are just a few species that flourish here.

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  1. Hales Hall Barn and Gardens »

    Address: Hales Hall, Norfolk NR14 6QW

    Tel: 01508 548395

    Services: Garden

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