Frilford Heath, Ponds and Fens facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Oxfordshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 108.8 hectares (269 acres) |
| Notification | 1986 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Frilford Heath, Ponds and Fens is a very special place for nature in Oxfordshire, England. It covers about 108.8 hectares (which is about 269 acres). This area is officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it is protected by law because it has rare plants, animals, or unique natural features.
A smaller part of this special area, about 3 hectares (7.4 acres), is called Hitchcopse Pit. This part is a nature reserve. It is looked after by the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust.
What Makes This Place Special?
Frilford Heath, Ponds and Fens is unique in southern England. It has different types of natural areas. These include acid grassland, heathland, and valley fens.
- Acid grassland is a type of grassy area where the soil is acidic.
- Heathland is an open area with low-growing plants like heather.
- Valley fens are wet, marshy areas found in valleys.
These different habitats make it a perfect home for many different living things.
Amazing Plants
Scientists have found over 400 different types of plants here. Some of these plants are very rare in the United Kingdom. This means they are not found in many other places. These rare plants are an important part of the site's special status.
Unique Insects
This site is also home to some unusual insects. These insects are important for the ecosystem.
- Microdynerus exilis is a type of wasp. It was only discovered to be living in Britain recently, in the late 1900s.
- The fly Cheilosia mutabilis is another special insect found here. It is listed in the "red data book of threatened species." This book lists animals and plants that are at risk of disappearing forever.
- The fly Epistrophe diaphana is also found here. It is uncommon in the country.
These insects show how important this area is for protecting biodiversity.
Visiting Frilford Heath
Most of Frilford Heath, Ponds and Fens is on the Frilford Heath Golf Course. Because of this, the main part of the site is not open to the public.
However, the smaller part called Hitchcopse Pit is open for people to visit. It is a great place to see some of the special nature of this area.
