Freshwater Habitats

The West Country is rich in rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, canals and ditches. Whether natural or artificial, they are the life-force behind the wildlife we love. 

Though not perhaps as obvious as other habitats, the WSR does, in fact have several different freshwater habitats, ranging from the water meadow behind the station at Bishops Lydeard, to the marshlands surrounding Dunster, as well as numerous smaller rivers and streams along the line. 

Supporting an abundance of plant life, these watery habitats provide perfect shelter, nurseries and breeding grounds for amphibians such as frogs, toads and newts as well as a huge variety of  insects, birds and fish.