Data Zone
Country/territory: United Kingdom
IBA criteria met: A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3, C2, C3, C4, C6 (2007)
For more information about IBA criteria, please click here
Area: 2,490 hectares (24.90 km2)
| IBA conservation status | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Year of assessment (most recent) | State (condition) | Pressure (threat) | Response (action) |
| 2007 | moderate | high | medium |
| For more information about IBA monitoring, please click here | |||
Site description (2007 baseline)
The Ouse Washes lie between the Old and New Bedford Rivers and act as a flood-water storage system during the winter months, subjecting the unimproved neutral grassland to regular winter flooding. The flood meadow sward is characterized by many reed, grass and herb species. A diverse aquatic flora also exists at the site. The IBA is important for breeding ducks and wintering wildfowl.
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Important Bird Area factsheet: Ouse Washes (United Kingdom). Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/site/factsheet/ouse-washes-iba-united-kingdom on 22/12/2024.