A unique feature of Grafham Water is its shoreline (or drawdown zone) which is very variable in size depending on the quantity of water in the reservoir. This area supports wading birds that feed on invertebrates in the mud, as well as some rare plants. These rare plants include the marsh dock (Rumex palustris), and hairy buttercup (Ranunculus sardous). These habitats are managed to increase the biodiversity of the nature reserve and its surrounding area, to protect and encourage rare and declining species and for people of all ages to enjoy, and learn from.