High Wood, Dunmow facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
The ruined gatehouse to High Wood
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| Area of Search | Essex |
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| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 41.5 hectares |
| Notification | 1986 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
High Wood, Dunmow is a special natural area in Great Dunmow, Essex. It covers about 41.5 hectares, which is like 100 football fields! This wood is officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because of its important plants and wildlife. It's protected to keep its unique natural features safe.
High Wood: A Special Place for Nature
High Wood is a very important place for nature. It was named a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1986. This means it has special plants, animals, or geological features that need to be protected. The local government, Uttlesford District Council, helps to look after this area.
What Makes High Wood Special?
The ground at High Wood is made of a type of soil called boulder clay and loess. These soil types help different kinds of trees and plants to grow.
- Trees: You can find areas with wet ash and maple trees. Other parts of the wood have strong pedunculate oak and hornbeam trees. Some of these areas are also considered ancient woodland. This means they have been continuously wooded for hundreds of years, making them very old and valuable.
- Plants: On the ground, there's a wide variety of plants. You might spot dog's mercury and pretty primrose flowers.
- Wildlife: The damp paths through the wood are perfect homes for many birds and tiny creatures like insects. These paths create extra habitats, helping different animals to thrive.
Visiting High Wood
High Wood is a private area. This means it is not open to the public for visits. It is kept undisturbed to protect its special natural environment.
