What you could find at Berry Head

click image to enlarge | photo credits

Wildlife

The cliffs of Berry Head are undercut with unique sea caves. Local studies have revealed rare and unexpected species at this site. Further offshore, rock pinnacles provide an anchor point for mussels and are home to the largest guillemot nesting colony in southern England.

Observations on use

The headland is already an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a National Nature Reserve, but this provides no protection for what is in the sea. Anglers fish from the headland and trawlers operate in the outer bay.

What difference would protection make?

Completely protecting the two core marine reserve areas at Berry Head would protect the unique cave system, safeguard the rich mussel beds and provide safe areas for fish to breed and grow. Anglers and potters in the buffer zone could benefit from spill-over from the fully protected areas.