Dallington Forest facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | East Sussex |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 16.1 hectares (40 acres) |
| Notification | 1985 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Dallington Forest is a special place in East Sussex, England. It's known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), which means it's protected because of its amazing nature. This part of Dallington Forest covers about 16.1 hectares (40 acres) (that's like 40 football fields!). It's a really important spot for plants and animals.
What Makes Dallington Forest Special?
Dallington Forest is unique because of its natural features. A stream called the Willingford Stream flows right through it. This stream has carved out a deep valley over many years.
The Valley's Special Climate
The valley created by the Willingford Stream is quite special. It has a warm and moist microclimate. A microclimate is like a tiny weather system that's different from the area around it. Because the valley is deep and sheltered, it stays warmer and wetter, which is perfect for certain plants to grow. The woodland in this valley is the most important part of the SSSI.
Trees of Dallington Forest
The types of trees you find in Dallington Forest change depending on where you are in the valley:
- In the northern part of the forest, you'll mostly see tall beech trees and strong oak trees.
- As you move to the southern part, there are fewer beech trees. Here, the main trees are oak, silver birch, and common hazel.
- Right at the bottom of the valley, close to the stream, you'll find groups of alder trees. Alders love wet ground, so they thrive near the water.
This mix of trees makes the forest a great home for many different kinds of wildlife.
