Mires of Bydons

Mires of Bydons, located in the Shetland Islands, is a coastal marsh and saltings area that encompasses a diverse and unique ecosystem. This natural habitat is characterized by its wetland conditions, with a mixture of freshwater and saltwater environments creating a rich and complex landscape.

The Mires of Bydons is teeming with a wide range of plant and animal life. The marsh is home to various species of sedges, rushes, and grasses that thrive in the wet conditions. These plants provide habitat and food sources for numerous bird species, including waders such as redshanks, oystercatchers, and curlews, which can be observed foraging in the shallow waters.

The saltings area of Mires of Bydons is a unique feature, consisting of salt marshes that are periodically flooded by the tides. This creates a brackish environment, supporting a different array of plant species that are adapted to tolerate saltwater intrusion. Sea aster, saltmarsh grass, and sea arrowgrass are among the plants that thrive in this challenging environment.

The Mires of Bydons also serve as an important breeding ground for several bird species. The marshes provide ideal nesting sites and food sources for species such as lapwings and red-throated divers. These areas play a crucial role in supporting the biodiversity of the Shetland Islands and are protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

Visitors to Mires of Bydons can enjoy walks along designated paths that offer stunning views of the coastal marsh and saltings. The area is also popular among birdwatchers, who can observe the diverse birdlife from specially constructed hides. It is essential for visitors to respect the fragile ecosystem and adhere to any guidelines in place to ensure the preservation of this unique habitat.