Cornmill Meadows

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The Cornmill Meadows dragonfly sanctuary consists of wet meadows and pools between the Cornmill Stream and the Old River Lea. Unlike most of the Lee Valley waterways, both meander in natural channels and have a wide range of waterside plants. This includes some scarce ones like flowering rush. Comfrey and purple loosestrife grow alongside the Old River Lea.

The area is rich in aquatic insect life, and especially dragonflies and damselflies – more than half of all Britain's species have been seen here. Banded demoiselles are among the most numerous and – later in the summer around the meadows – migrant hawkers. Among the rarer species are the hairy dragonfly and the white-legged damselfly.

Dragonflies are favourite prey for hobbies, which can sometimes be seen hunting for them overhead. Water voles nest in the river banks.

In winter large flocks of wigeon and teal gather on the ponds, often joined by lapwing and golden plover. Teal and waders occupy the shallower pools.