Stodmarsh

Stodmarsh is a large wetland area in Kent, England, designated as a National Nature Reserve (NNR), a Special Protection Area (SPA), a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), and a Ramsar site. It is located in the Stour Valley, near Canterbury.

The area is renowned for its diverse range of habitats, including reedbeds, open water, grazing marsh, and woodland. This mosaic of habitats supports a wide variety of bird species, both resident and migratory, making it a key site for ornithological observation. Notable bird species found at Stodmarsh include bitterns, marsh harriers, bearded tits, and a variety of waterfowl and waders.

The site is managed to maintain and enhance its ecological value, with ongoing work to control water levels, manage vegetation, and provide suitable nesting and feeding areas for birds and other wildlife. Access to Stodmarsh is permitted, with designated trails and hides for birdwatching, but restrictions may be in place to protect sensitive areas and breeding birds. The site plays an important role in flood management within the Stour Valley.