Hoad's Wood facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Kent |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 80.5 hectares (199 acres) |
| Notification | 1989 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Hoad's Wood is a special forest located west of Ashford in Kent, England. It covers about 80.5 hectares (199 acres), which is like 200 football fields! This wood is officially recognized as a "Site of Special Scientific Interest" because it's home to many unique plants and animals.
Contents
What Makes Hoad's Wood Special?
Hoad's Wood is a "Site of Special Scientific Interest," often called an SSSI. This means it's a protected area in the United Kingdom. It is important for its wildlife and natural features. The wood was given this special status in 1989.
Why is Hoad's Wood Protected?
Natural England, a group that protects nature, says Hoad's Wood is a great example of a certain type of forest. It grows on a kind of soil called Wealden Clay. The main trees here are pedunculate oak and hornbeam.
Types of Trees in the Wood
- Much of the wood has hornbeam trees that are "coppiced." This means they are cut back regularly to grow many new shoots.
- There are also taller "standard" trees, like oaks, growing above the coppice.
- You can also find hazel and sweet chestnut trees in different parts of the wood.
Amazing Animals in Hoad's Wood
Hoad's Wood is a fantastic place for insects, especially moths and butterflies. Scientists have studied them a lot here. The wood is also home to many different kinds of birds that build their nests and raise their young there.
Birds You Might Find
Some of the birds that live and breed in Hoad's Wood include:
- Nightingale
- Woodcock
- Nuthatch
- Great spotted woodpecker
- Several types of tits
- Different kinds of Warblers
Can You Visit Hoad's Wood?
Hoad's Wood is on private land. This means it is owned by someone and is not open to the public. There are no paths or areas for people to visit.
