Folkestone Warren facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Kent |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological Geological |
| Area | 316.3 hectares (782 acres) |
| Notification | 1987 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Folkestone Warren is a very special place located on the coast of Kent, in England. It stretches along the shoreline between the towns of Folkestone and Dover. This area is huge, covering about 316.3 hectares, which is like 782 football fields! It's important for both its amazing wildlife and its ancient rocks.
This unique coastal area is officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it has rare plants and animals, and unique geological features that are protected. It's also part of a Nature Conservation Review site and contains several Geological Conservation Review sites. This shows how incredibly important it is for studying nature and Earth's history. A smaller part of Folkestone Warren, about 83.6 hectares, is even a Local Nature Reserve, making it a great spot for local wildlife and people to enjoy.
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What Makes Folkestone Warren So Special?
Folkestone Warren is famous for its tall, white chalk cliffs. These cliffs are not just beautiful; they are home to many rare plants that you won't find easily anywhere else in the country. The cliffs also provide a safe place for different kinds of birds to build their nests and raise their young. In winter, many birds come here to find food and shelter.
A Window into Earth's Past
One of the most exciting things about Folkestone Warren is its geology. The rocks here are like an open book, telling us about Earth's history. This area has two internationally important sites that help scientists study the Cretaceous period.
What Was the Cretaceous Period?
The Cretaceous period was a time in Earth's history that lasted from about 145 to 66 million years ago. It was the last part of the "Age of Dinosaurs." During this time, many new types of plants and animals appeared. The chalk cliffs at Folkestone Warren were formed from the tiny shells of sea creatures that lived in warm, shallow seas during the Cretaceous period. Studying these rocks helps scientists understand what the world was like millions of years ago.
Protecting Nature and Wildlife
Because Folkestone Warren is so important, it has several special protections:
- Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI): This is a legal protection for the best wildlife and geological sites in the UK. It means the area is managed to protect its special features.
- Nature Conservation Review Site: These are the most important sites for wildlife in Britain. Folkestone Warren is recognized for its rare plants and animals.
- Geological Conservation Review Site: These sites are chosen because they are the best examples of different types of rocks, fossils, and landforms in Britain. Folkestone Warren helps us understand Earth's history.
- Local Nature Reserve: This is an area that is important for wildlife and is managed for people to enjoy and learn about nature.
These protections help make sure that Folkestone Warren remains a safe home for its unique plants and animals, and a valuable place for scientists to study Earth's past for many years to come.
