Canvey Wick

Canvey Island may not be the first place to spring to mind when thinking of rare wildlife, but a brownfield site on the island has been found to be one of the best places in Britain for endangered invertebrates. That place is Canvey Wick. Described as “a little brownfield rainforest” by Natural England officer Dr Chris Gibson, the results of surveys have shown Canvey Wick to have “more biodiversity per square foot than any other site in the UK”. This nature reserve was designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) on 11 February 2005 – the first brownfield site to be protected specifically for its invertebrates.

This space is managed in partnership with RSPB.

Courses and activities we hope to deliver at this location include:

Canvey Wick Bugs and bees

Introduction to Bees, Dragonfly's and Damselflies of Canvey Wick

Wildlife ID

Come along to our site to learn how to identify our flourishing wildlife, from plants and trees, to insects living on land and in water. We will use keys and other techniques to help us explore the natural world all around us.

Please click to enlarge

Thank you for your welcoming introduction to Hassall Green Nature Reserve and for explaining all the interesting and inclusive activities which are provided there. Ralph and I really enjoyed finding out about the work being done to encourage involvement in the natural world and to support local wildlife.

Bugs and Blooms Walk Bewsey May 23