The River Anton rises from springs within the reserve, flowing
down through a series of old watercress beds, providing a habitat
for the nationally rare long-stalked yellow sedge. The river then
flows into the lakes, which are themselves home to a variety of
birds including the beautiful great-crested grebe. Further down the
river you'll find a colony of water voles. Since they are now
endangered and protected, the population is being monitored to
ensure their survival.
Other habitats include an area of chalk grassland providing
ideal habitat for a number of butterfly species including the
marbled white and gatekeeper and an area of wet, fen meadow host to
an impressive colony of southern marsh orchids.
Lifebelts, which are inspected every week, are situated at
strategic points around the lakes.