Morecambe Bay

Morecambe Bay is a large estuary in northwest England, just to the south of the Lake District National Park. It is the largest expanse of intertidal mudflats and sand in the United Kingdom, covering a total area of 310 square kilometers.

Geography

Morecambe Bay is fed by the rivers Leven, Kent, Keer, Lune, and Wyre. The bay's landscape is a mixture of salt marshes, mudflats, and sandy beaches. The extensive intertidal area is characterized by strong tides, which have been known to cause quicksand conditions.

History

The history of Morecambe Bay is rich and varied. It has been inhabited since at least the Neolithic period, and there are numerous archaeological sites around the bay, including the Stone Age monument at Heysham Head. The bay has also been a significant maritime and fishing resource throughout history.

Wildlife

Morecambe Bay is an important wildlife area, hosting an array of bird species. It is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), a Special Protection Area, and a Ramsar site, reflecting its national and international importance for wildlife.

Morecambe Bay Prawns

Morecambe Bay is famous for its prawns, known as Morecambe Bay Prawns. These are actually brown shrimps (Crangon crangon), and they are a popular local delicacy.

Morecambe Bay Disaster

In 2004, the bay was the site of the Morecambe Bay Disaster, in which 23 Chinese cockle pickers drowned due to the bay's quicksand and fast-moving tides.

See also

• Bays
• Estuaries
• Rivers of England