The Wash is perhaps the most important estuarine system in the whole of the British Isles. Its vast expanse of mudflats and saltmarshes attract huge numbers of waders and wildfowl, while the surrounding dunes and beaches provide a haven for numerous other species of interest. Will Brown provides an overview of the history and ecological significance of the Wash, and describes the conservation work that is being carried out in order to protect this fascinating ecosystem.
The Wash is one of the most important coastal wetlands in Europe, renowned particularly for its huge populations of wintering and migratory waterbirds. In terms of its conservation importance, it is the largest estuarine system in the British Isles, and it contains the biggest Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and National Nature Reserve (NNR) in England.