Hardwick Wood facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Cambridgeshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 15.5 hectares |
| Notification | 1984 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Hardwick Wood is a really special forest located southwest of Hardwick in Cambridgeshire, England. It's about 15.5 hectares in size, which is like 30 football fields! This amazing place is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because of its unique nature. The Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire helps look after it.
Contents
Discovering Hardwick Wood
Hardwick Wood is an ancient woodland with a long history. It has been around since medieval times! Today, it's carefully managed to help all the plants and animals that live there.
What is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)?
A Site of Special Scientific Interest, or SSSI, is a special area in the UK. These places are chosen because they have rare wildlife, plants, or important geological features. Being an SSSI means Hardwick Wood is protected by law. This helps make sure its natural beauty and wildlife can thrive for many years.
How Hardwick Wood is Cared For
Hardwick Wood is managed using an old method called coppicing. This means that certain trees are cut down close to the ground every few years. Don't worry, it doesn't hurt the trees! Instead, it encourages new shoots to grow from the stump. This method creates different light levels in the wood. It helps many different plants and animals to grow and live there.
Trees and Plants of the Wood
Hardwick Wood is home to many types of trees. You'll mostly find ash and field maple trees here. In the oldest parts of the wood, there are big pedunculate oak trees. Below these tall trees, you can see smaller plants like hazel and hawthorn. On the ground, look out for beautiful flowers such as the early-purple orchid and yellow archangel. These plants add lots of color and life to the forest floor.
Amazing Birds of Hardwick Wood
This wood is a fantastic place for birdwatching! Many different bird species make their homes here. You might spot tiny willow warblers singing their cheerful songs. The shy marsh tit can also be found, often near damp areas. And listen for the lovely melodies of the blackcap, a common and beautiful songbird. These birds rely on the wood for food, shelter, and places to raise their young.
Visiting Hardwick Wood
If you want to explore this wonderful natural area, you can! There is easy access to Hardwick Wood by footpath. It's a great place to enjoy nature and see some of the amazing wildlife that calls Cambridgeshire home.
