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: 25,141 hectares (251.41 km2)
| IBA conservation status | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Year of assessment (most recent) | State (condition) | Pressure (threat) | Response (action) |
| 2015 | not assessed | high | low |
| For more information about IBA monitoring, please click here | |||
Site description (2007 baseline)
The estuary is fed by five major rivers (the Severn, Wye, Usk, Parrett and Avon) in addition to other lesser rivers. Classically funnel-shaped, the estuary has the second widest tidal range in the world and is characterized by strong currents, mobile sediments and high turbidity. Large expanses of cord-grass Spartina occur. The site supports internationally important numbers of wintering and passage wildfowl and waders, in addition to important breeding bird populations.
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Important Bird Area factsheet: Severn Estuary (United Kingdom). Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/site/factsheet/severn-estuary-iba-united-kingdom on 23/12/2024.