The slow-moving Cornmill Stream and Old River Lea form a freshwater habitat with one of the most diverse
invertebrate fauna in Essex. Eighteen species of
dragonflies and
damselflies have been recorded and includes the uncommon and nationally declining
white-legged damselfly. The watercourses support a rich and varied aquatic and marginal flora and the site also includes rough grassland which provides feeding and breeding grounds for invertebrates and birds. == References ==