Hazeley Heath facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Hampshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 180.8 hectares (447 acres) |
| Notification | 1982 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Hazeley Heath is a really special place in Hampshire, England. It's a huge area of land, about 180 football fields big, that's protected because of its amazing nature. It's known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because it's home to many rare plants and animals. It's also part of a bigger area called the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area, which is super important for wild birds.
Contents
Discovering Hazeley Heath
Hazeley Heath is located west of Farnborough in Hampshire. It became a protected area in 1982. This means it's officially recognized for its important natural features.
A Home for Nature
This big heathland has lots of different kinds of places to explore. The soil and the way the land slopes change across the heath. This creates many unique habitats for plants and animals.
Different Habitats
- Acid Grassland: Areas with special grasses that like acidic soil.
- Bracken: Patches of tall ferns that grow in many places.
- Purple Moor-Grass: A type of grass that often grows in wet, boggy areas.
- Dry and Wet Heath: Areas that are either very dry or quite wet, both with specific types of heath plants like heather.
- Dense Gorse: Thick bushes with sharp thorns and bright yellow flowers.
- Birch Woods: Small areas with birch trees.
- Bog: Very wet, spongy ground where special bog plants grow.
Why is Hazeley Heath Protected?
Hazeley Heath is protected because it's a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it has some of the best examples of wildlife, geology, or landforms in England. Protecting these sites helps to keep rare plants and animals safe.
It's also part of the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area (SPA). SPAs are protected areas for wild birds. They are very important for birds that migrate or need specific habitats to survive.
Visiting Hazeley Heath
Hazeley Heath is common land. This means it's open for everyone to visit and enjoy. You can explore the different habitats and see the wildlife that calls this special place home. It's a great spot for walking and enjoying nature.
