Boxwell SSSI facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
Box (Buxus sempervirens)
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| Area of Search | Gloucestershire |
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| Coordinates | 51°38′03″N 2°16′00″W / 51.634156°N 2.266529°W |
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 5.31 hectare |
| Notification | 1954 |
Boxwell SSSI is a very special natural area in Gloucestershire, England. It covers about 5.31 hectares, which is roughly the size of 13 football fields! SSSI stands for Site of Special Scientific Interest. This means the area is protected by law because it has rare plants, animals, or unique geology. Boxwell SSSI was officially recognized as a special site in 1954. It is also known as a Key Wildlife Site (KWS) in the local area.
What Makes Boxwell SSSI Special?
Boxwell SSSI is located within the beautiful Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This area is known for its rolling hills and pretty villages. The site itself is on a steep slope that faces the south-west. This slope is made of Jurassic limestone, which is a type of rock formed millions of years ago.
The Importance of Box Trees
One of the most important things about Boxwell SSSI is its Box trees (scientific name: Buxus sempervirens). These trees are very special here because scientists believe they are native to this spot. This means they have grown naturally in this area for a very long time. Boxwell is one of only three places in the entire country where Box trees are thought to be truly native.
A Rare Woodland Habitat
The site is also important because it has the best example of a "tall scrub-woodland" habitat in Britain. This means it's a mix of tall bushes and small trees growing closely together. This type of habitat is very important for many different kinds of wildlife. It provides homes and food for various plants and animals.
