Portland in
itself is an important nature reserve and a haven for rare butterflies,
a variety of bird species, a diverse flora and limestone plants.
The 18 miles of Chesil Beach
starts at the Chesil Cove in Portland and
stretches westward to Abbotsbury where it becomes fine sand. The
protected pebbles of Chesil (removal not allowed) vary in size and
colour with the largest found nearest Portland and the smallest to the
West. The Chesil Beach and Nature Information Centre immediately to the
right after crossing the fleet is an exciting place to visit.
Chesil Cove -
Extending 18 miles to
Abbotsbury
The
Fleet Nature Reserve is designated as an
"Area of Scientific Interest" and is a large tidal lagoon which stretches to
Abbotsbury. It is an important wetland and waterflow habitat serving as a
sanctuary for many rare birds and plants.
The Fleet's most famous resident is the
Mute Swan and this breeding colony has reportedly existed at Abbotsbury
since 1993. The Swannery (Left) is open from Easter to October and the
May-June months see the hatching of baby swans. A unique boat trip on the
Fleet seeing the wildlife above and below this fascinating area during June
to September can be made using the glass bottomed boat, Fleet Observer. For
more information and sailing times please call 01305 773396. (Photos Izzy 2002)
The
Tout Quarry Nature Reserve is at an
exposed coastal location to the West of the island and this exposure has
resulted in a rare and diverse flora. This, together with the limestone
plants, orchids and rock roses help to attract Portland's unique
butterfly population.
The disused
Broadcroft Quarry Butterfly Reserve is
accessed all year from Grove Road by the playing fields and is
managed by the Butterfly Conservation Society. This was Britain's first
butterfly reserve and hosts rare and unusual species.
Stone Statue -
Tout Quarry Nature Reserve
Well-known sculptures and students have been generating new works over
the years and over 50 sculptures have been carves either into rock face
itself or worked from the quarry landscape.
The
Fleet Nature Reserve is designated as an
"Area of Scientific Interest" and is a large tidal lagoon which stretches to
Abbotsbury. It is an important wetland and waterflow habitat serving as a
sanctuary for many rare birds and plants. 