Local Wildlife Site

Wildlife

A variety of semi-natural habitats occur here providing a range of niches for different birds, small mammals and invertebrates, alongside suitable habitat for common reptiles and amphibians. The predominant habitats are rough grassland and scrub which have largely developed naturally although some native shrubs have also been planted. The grassland in the north-west has been modified with several species sown here. Many of these are now dying off and a grassland community more typical of the soil conditions is developing. In places the soil is slightly acid and is free-draining, allowing common bent and red fescue to dominate with low growing herbs like dove's-foot crane's-bill, cat's-ear and daisy. An interesting pond occurs in the east. Several wetland plants have been introduced here and the margins are now occupied by species such as lesser pond-sedge, sharp-flowered and greater spearwort. The last species is native to Britain but quite localised in where it occurs naturally. Two invasive species, New Zealand pigmyweed and parrot's-feather, as also present, likely introduced accidentally. Interestingly, a stonewort is abundant in the water, indicting a good water quality. This species may disappear after a few years once other vascular plants become more vigorous.

Facilities

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