
Two important sites for waterfowl in Essex have been given the strongest possible environmental protection, Defra has announced.
Allfleet’s Marsh and Brandy Hole, which are part of the Crouch and Roach estuaries, are now Special Protection Areas (SPA) and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). They were also designated Ramsar wetland of international importance.
Both sites provide suitable habitat for internationally important wintering water birds, including dark-bellied brent geese, lapwing, shoveler and golden plover, among many waterfowl species.
Image by Ian Kirk, Broadstone, Dorset/Commons Wikimedia/CC BY 2.0



Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty.