Maymead Marsh features a large pond with reed beds, marshland and a nesting island in the centre.
Over 100 species of bird have been recorded at the site including rare species such as the little ringed plover, ringed ouzel, greenshank, jack snipe, redstart and bittern.
More familiar bird species include the grey heron, coot, moorhen, mallard, reed warbler, tufted duck, magpie, teal and little grebe.
The remaining grassland is rich in wildflower species such as southern marsh orchid and cowslip. The site attracts many insect species and occasionally grass snakes can be spotted.
If you're interested in Harlow's wild spaces, you can volunteer to help conserve them