Shetland Sites of Special Scientific Interest
The Shetland archipelago is home to a vast array of unique landscapes, from rugged coastlines to serene lochs. To protect these invaluable natural assets, many areas have been designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). An SSSI is a conservation designation used in the United Kingdom to protect areas of high biological or geological importance.
Managed and documented by NatureScot (also known as NàdarAlba), these sites ensure that the region's biodiversity and geological history are preserved for future generations. The diversity of these sites reflects the varied topography of the islands, encompassing meadows, burns, quarries, and coastal cliffs.
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Key Facts
- Governing Body: NatureScot (NàdarAlba) is the primary organization responsible for the designation and documentation of these sites.
- Diverse Habitats: Protected areas include coastal zones, freshwater lochs, inland meadows, and geological quarries.
- Special Designations: While most are SSSIs, some areas, such as the Keen of Hamar, also hold SAC (Special Area of Conservation) status.
- Geographic Reach: Designations span the main islands and outlying areas, including Fair Isle, Foula, and Papa Stour.
Categorization of Protected Sites
The SSSIs in Shetland can be broadly categorized by the type of environment they protect. This allows conservationists to apply specific management strategies to different ecological needs.
Coastal and Marine Sites
Shetland's coastline is a critical habitat for marine life and seabirds. Notable coastal SSSIs include the Eshaness Coast, the dramatic cliffs of Sumburgh Head, and the unique St Ninian's Tombolo—a tombolo being a sandy isthmus that connects an island to the mainland.
Freshwater and Wetland Sites
The islands feature numerous lochs and burns (small streams) that support rare aquatic species. Examples include the Lochs of Tingwall and Asta, the Burn of Lunklet, and the Culswick Marsh.
Inland Meadows and Terrestrial Sites
Terrestrial biodiversity is preserved in areas like the Muckle Roe Meadows, Norwick Meadows, and the Hill of Colvadale and Sobul. These sites often protect rare flora and soil compositions.
Geological and Quarry Sites
The geological history of the region is captured in sites such as the Clothister Hill Quarry and the Voxter Voe and Valayre Quarry, which provide insight into the earth's composition in the North Atlantic.
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Summary of Notable Shetland SSSIs
| Site Name | Primary Feature Type | Notable Location/Detail |
|---|---|---|
| St Ninian's Tombolo | Coastal | Unique sandy isthmus |
| Sumburgh Head | Coastal | Southernmost point |
| Keen of Hamar | Terrestrial/SAC | Special Area of Conservation |
| Fair Isle | Island-wide | Remote biodiversity hotspot |
| Lochs of Tingwall and Asta | Freshwater | Lacustrine ecosystem |
| Clothister Hill Quarry | Geological | Mineral/Rock formations |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an SSSI?
An SSSI, or Site of Special Scientific Interest, is a protected area designated by the government to preserve the best examples of the UK's flora, fauna, or geological features.
Who manages these sites in Shetland?
These sites are managed and documented by NatureScot (NàdarAlba), the public body responsible for Scotland's natural heritage.
Are all SSSIs coastal?
No. While many are coastal, there are numerous inland SSSIs including meadows, burns, lochs, and quarries.
What is the difference between an SSSI and an SAC?
While an SSSI is a national designation, an SAC (Special Area of Conservation) is a designation used under European-wide standards to protect habitats of international importance. Some sites, like the Keen of Hamar, carry both designations.
Which remote islands have SSSI status?
Several remote islands have protected status, including Fair Isle, Foula, and Papa Stour.