Badsaddle, Withmale Park and Bush Walk Woods facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Northamptonshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 25.2 hectares |
| Notification | 1987 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Badsaddle, Withmale Park and Bush Walk Woods is a special natural area in Northamptonshire, England. It covers about 25.2 hectares, which is like 50 football fields! This area is officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, or SSSI for short.
What Makes These Woods Special?
These woods are very old, going back many centuries. They are known as "ancient coppice woodland." This means that trees here have been cut back regularly over time, but their roots stay alive and regrow. This traditional way of managing the woods helps many different plants and animals to thrive.
The soil here is wet and contains a lot of calcium. This type of soil is called "calcareous." It's perfect for certain kinds of plants that need these conditions to grow.
A Home for Rare Plants
Badsaddle, Withmale Park and Bush Walk Woods are home to a variety of interesting plants. You can find large oak trees and tall ash trees. These are common trees, but the way they grow here is special.
The ground beneath the trees is full of unique wildflowers. Some of these include:
- Herb paris: A plant with a single, unusual flower.
- Goldilocks buttercup: A bright yellow flower that adds color to the woodland floor.
- Four different types of orchids: Orchids are beautiful and often rare flowers. Finding four different kinds here shows how healthy and important this woodland is for nature.
How to Explore the Woods
If you want to visit these special woods, there are ways to get there.
- You can reach Bush Park and Withmale Park Woods from Redhouse Road. This road runs right between them.
- To get to Badsaddle Wood, you can follow a track that leads from the A43 road.
Remember, when visiting an SSSI, it's important to stay on paths and respect the wildlife. These areas are protected to keep their unique plants and animals safe for everyone to enjoy.
