Greenham and Crookham Commons facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
Crookham Common
|
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| Area of Search | Berkshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 280.5 hectares (693 acres) |
| Notification | 1994 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Greenham and Crookham Commons is a large and important natural area in Berkshire, England. It covers about 280.5 hectares (693 acres). This special place is located near Newbury. It is recognized as a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
The SSSI is part of a bigger nature reserve. This reserve is about 444 hectares (1,097 acres) in size. West Berkshire Council owns the land. The Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust helps manage it. They work to protect the wildlife and habitats found here.
Contents
What is Greenham and Crookham Commons?
Greenham and Crookham Commons is a protected area. It is called a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it has important plants, animals, or geological features. The government protects these sites. They ensure the natural environment is kept safe.
The commons are also a nature reserve. Nature reserves are places where nature is protected. People can visit them to enjoy the outdoors. They can also learn about local wildlife.
A Home for Nature
Greenham and Crookham Commons is home to many different types of nature. It has the largest areas of heathland in Berkshire. It also features acid grassland. These are special habitats.
Plants and Habitats
Besides heathland and grassland, you can find other habitats here. There are areas of gorse scrub. This is a type of prickly bush. Broad-leaved woodlands also grow on the commons. These woods have many different kinds of trees. You can also find water-logged valleys. These areas are home to alder trees.
Amazing Animals
The commons are full of interesting creatures. Many different invertebrates live here. Invertebrates are animals without backbones. This includes many types of insects.
Some beautiful butterflies fly around the woodlands. These include the white admiral. You might also spot the purple emperor. The silver-washed fritillary is another lovely butterfly found here. These butterflies add to the beauty of the commons.
A Place with History
Greenham Common has an interesting past. In the 1980s, it was a military base. After the base closed, it was opened to the public. This happened in the year 2000. It became the nature reserve we know today. This change allowed nature to thrive. It also gave people a new place to explore.
