Biodiversity of the North Pennines
The North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a unique and diverse landscape in the north of England, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning scenery. The region covers an area of over 910 square kilometers and is home to a wide range of habitats, from upland moors and blanket bogs to limestone pavements and hay meadows.
One of the key features of the North Pennines is its unique upland habitats. The high moorlands are home to a wide range of plants and animals, many of which are found nowhere else in the UK. The blanket bogs, which cover large areas of the region, are home to species such as sphagnum moss, cotton grass, and sundew, while the heather moorlands are home to a wide range of birds, including the curlew, golden plover, and lapwing. The upland fells also provide important breeding and nesting sites for birds such as the golden eagle, merlin and peregrine falcon.
The North Pennines is also home to a wide range of freshwater habitats, including rivers, streams, and lakes. The region is known for its high-quality rivers, which are home to a wide range of fish and other aquatic species, including salmon, brown trout, and the European eel. The rivers are also home to a wide range of insects, including the endangered white-clawed crayfish, and the region's many streams and becks are home to a wide range of other aquatic species.
The region is also known for its limestone habitats, which are home to a wide range of rare and endangered plant species. The limestone pavements and outcrops are home to a wide range of ferns, mosses, and lichens, as well as rare orchids and other flowers. The limestone habitats are also home to a wide range of insects, including the beautiful purple hairstreak butterfly, which is found nowhere else in the UK.
The North Pennines is also home to a wide range of cultural heritage, including ancient field systems, drystone walls, and traditional farms, many of which have been in continuous use for centuries. These landscapes provide important habitats for species such as the curlew, skylark, and meadow pipit, and are also important for the region's many butterflies and moths.
Overall, the North Pennines is a unique and diverse landscape that is home to a wide range of habitats and species. The region's many habitats support a wide range of plants and animals, many of which are found nowhere else in the UK, and the region's cultural heritage provides important habitats for a wide range of species. The North Pennines is a truly special place that is well worth visiting to discover its many wonders.
