National nature reserves in England are designated by
Natural England as key places for
wildlife and natural features in
England. They were established to protect the most significant areas of habitat and of geological formations. NNRs are managed on behalf of the nation, many by Natural England itself, but also by non-governmental organisations, including the members of
The Wildlife Trusts partnership, the
National Trust, and the
Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.
There are 229 NNRs in England covering 939 square kilometres (363 square miles).[1] Often they contain rare species or nationally important species of plants, insects, butterflies, birds, mammals, etc.
Spotlight NNRs
Natural England has selected 35 as spotlight reserves:[2]