Chequer's Wood and Old Park facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Kent |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological Geological |
| Area | 106.9 hectares (264 acres) |
| Notification | 1985 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Chequer's Wood and Old Park is a very special natural area located just outside Canterbury in Kent, England. It covers about 107 hectares, which is like 264 football fields! This site is officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Being an SSSI means the area is protected because it has important features. Chequer's Wood and Old Park is special for two main reasons: its amazing wildlife and plants (biological) and its ancient rocks and history (geological). It was first recognized as an SSSI in 1985.
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What Makes Chequer's Wood and Old Park Special?
This unique place is important for both its natural environment and its historical discoveries. It's a great spot to learn about ancient times and different types of habitats.
Discovering Ancient Tools
One of the most exciting parts of Chequer's Wood and Old Park is a place called Fordwich Pit. Here, archaeologists have found many very old stone tools. These tools are called handaxes and they were made by early humans. They belong to a time period known as the early Paleolithic (or Acheulian) age.
These handaxes are incredibly old, dating back between 550,000 and 300,000 years! Finding so many tools in one place helps scientists understand how ancient people lived and used tools long, long ago.
Exploring Diverse Habitats
Chequer's Wood and Old Park is home to many different types of natural environments, called habitats. These habitats support a variety of plants and animals.
- Alder Wood: In the valley bottoms, you'll find wet areas with alder trees.
- Acidic Grassland: On drier, sandy soil, there are areas of acidic grassland. This type of grass is special because it grows well in soil that has a certain chemical balance.
- Oak and Birch Woodland: There are also woodlands filled with oak and birch trees. These forests provide homes for many creatures.
- Scrub and Pond: You can also find areas of thick bushes, known as scrub, and a pond. The pond, called Reed Pond, is a vital water source for wildlife.
Visiting the Park
Chequer's Wood and Old Park is owned by Canterbury City Council and the Ministry of Defence. This means parts of it are managed for public enjoyment and other parts have specific uses.
There are public footpaths and cycle paths that go through the park, so you can explore its beauty. Reed Pond is looked after by a local environmental group, which helps keep it healthy for the animals that live there. Some small areas of the park were once used for military training, and these specific spots are restricted for public safety.
