Eriswell Low Warren facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Suffolk |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 7.4 hectares |
| Notification | 1986 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Eriswell Low Warren is a very special natural area located north-east of Eriswell in Suffolk, England. It covers about 7.4 hectares, which is roughly the size of ten football fields! This site is officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because of its unique wildlife and plants.
It's also recognized as a top-grade site for nature conservation. Plus, it's part of the wider Breckland area, which is a Special Protection Area. This means it's a super important place for protecting wild birds, following rules set by the European Union.
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Eriswell Low Warren: A Special Place for Nature
Eriswell Low Warren is a fantastic example of what's called unimproved acidic grassland. This means the land hasn't been changed much by farming or building. It has sandy soil, which is perfect for certain types of plants.
This special grassland is home to many plants typical of the Breckland area. You can also find different kinds of lichens and bryophytes here. Lichens are like a mix of fungi and algae, often growing on rocks or trees. Bryophytes are small, simple plants like mosses and liverworts.
Amazing Plants You Can Find Here
The site is famous for its rare and unusual plants. Some of these include the purple-stem cat's-tail, which is a unique type of grass. You might also spot the spring speedwell, a small plant with pretty blue flowers.
Other rare finds are the Spanish catchfly, known for its sticky stems, and the perennial knawel. These plants are not easy to find elsewhere, making Eriswell Low Warren a very important spot for plant conservation.
Why is This Place So Important?
Eriswell Low Warren is protected because it's a perfect example of a rare habitat. The special sandy soil and untouched grassland create a home for plants that can't grow just anywhere. Protecting these areas helps keep our natural world healthy and diverse.
By being a Site of Special Scientific Interest and part of a Special Protection Area, Eriswell Low Warren gets extra care. This ensures that its unique plants and the birds that rely on this habitat are safe for the future.
Can You Visit?
It's important to know that Eriswell Low Warren is on private land. This means there is no public access to the site. Its protected status helps keep it undisturbed, allowing the rare plants and wildlife to thrive without interruption.
