Gouthwaite Reservoir Claimed

Gouthwaite Reservoir is in Nidderdale, near Pateley Bridge and one of many in the area others include Roundhill Reservoir and Angram Reservoir. The reservoir maintains the downstream flow of the river during periods of lower rainfall. The reservoir was constructed between 1893 and 1901. Gouthwaite Reservoir is a nature reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)

The reservoir owned by Yorkshire Water has created three viewing areas for bird watchers on the edge of the reservoir

Tree and shrub cover along the shoreline provides a habitat for small birds such as willow warbler and blackcap. Other records include woodland specialists like great spotted woodpecker and nuthatch. The green woodpecker has also been recorded. In winter, the reservoir margins are good for fieldfares and redwings. On the reservoir itself, Canada geese are always present and joined during the autumn and winter by goosanders and goldeneye accompanied by mallard, tufted duck and pochard. Whooper swans from Iceland frequently join them. Winter is also a good time for birds of prey with buzzard, red kite, hen harriers, merlins and kestrels being observed around the reservoir and the surrounding