E2BN Gallery

Wicken Fen has been designated an SSSI, Special Conservation Area and a National Nature Reserve, principally on account of the open Fen habitats such as sedge beds, reed communities and Fen meadows. Aquatic habitats such as the dykes and pools are also very important. Dryer grassland and woodland also add diversity to the site but in the case of woodland, its expansion has often been at the expense of more valuable open Fen habitats. The Fen is home to a long list of rare species. It was established as a nature reserve because of its invertebrate interest. Nearly 5,000 species have so far been identified on the Fen, including more than 121 that are included in the Red Data Book of rare invertebrates.