Action Plan: Rocky Shore, Reefs & Islands

Rocky reefs are rock surfaces exposed above low tide but covered by high tide. Where reefs are exposed on the coast they are referred to as rocky shores. They are found in a diverse range of forms such as; cobbles, vertical rock walls and horizontal ledges, areas of broken bedrock and boulder fields. Reef habitats occur throughout the Northumberland coast. They are of a remarkably varied nature which is due to the wide range of physical conditions in the area, from wave-exposed locations on the open coast, through more sheltered reefs within bays, to those exposed to strong tidal streams in sounds and off headlands.

Along the Northumberland coast there is a diverse range of rock types, including soft limestones and hard volcanic rock. The Farne Islands are of special importance as they are among the very few rocky islands with extensive reefs in the enclosed North Sea. A large number of the species present are characteristic of cold water and several reach their southern or eastern limit of distribution within the area.

These habitats are important for the grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) and many sea birds including; little tern, roseate tern, whooper swan, golden plover, bar-tailed godwit, wigeon, greylag goose, light-bellied brent goose, ringed plover and redshank.