Holton Wood facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Oxfordshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 50.6 hectares (125 acres) |
| Notification | 1984 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Holton Wood is a special place in Oxfordshire, England. It's a large, ancient woodland that is protected because of its amazing nature. Imagine a forest filled with old trees and lots of tiny creatures!
Contents
A Special Place for Nature
Holton Wood covers about 50.6 hectares, which is like 125 football fields! It's officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means the government has recognized it as one of the best places in the country for wildlife and natural features. It's protected so that its plants and animals can thrive.
Why is it Protected?
Being an SSSI means Holton Wood is important for its biology. This includes all the living things found there, from the tallest trees to the smallest insects. Protecting places like Holton Wood helps keep our natural world healthy and diverse.
A Look Back in Time
History of Holton Wood
Long, long ago, Holton Wood was part of a much bigger forest called Bernwood Forest. This huge forest was once a medieval hunting ground. Kings and nobles would hunt deer and other animals here centuries ago. Over time, parts of Bernwood Forest were cleared, but Holton Wood remained. It gives us a peek into what these ancient woodlands were like.
Trees and Plants
What Kind of Forest is it?
Holton Wood is a "semi-natural" forest. This means it has grown mostly on its own, but people have also managed it over many years. It uses a special way of growing called "coppice with standards."
Coppice with Standards Explained
- Coppice: This is when trees are cut down close to the ground. New shoots then grow from the stump. This helps the trees grow back quickly and provides wood for different uses. It also creates sunny spots on the forest floor, which are great for other plants and animals.
- Standards: These are taller, older trees that are left to grow big and strong. In Holton Wood, many of these "standard" trees are beautiful oaks. They are of different ages, creating a varied and interesting forest canopy.
This mix of young coppice growth and old standard trees makes the forest very healthy. It provides different habitats for many kinds of wildlife.
Amazing Animals
Butterflies and More!
Holton Wood is famous for its rich invertebrate fauna. "Invertebrates" are animals without backbones, like insects, spiders, and worms. This forest is a buzzing hub for these tiny creatures.
A Butterfly Paradise
One of the most exciting things about Holton Wood is its butterflies. There are 27 different species of butterflies found here! This is a huge number for one woodland. Some of the special butterflies you might see include:
- White Admiral: This elegant butterfly has dark wings with bright white bands. It glides gracefully through the trees.
- Purple Emperor: This is a truly magnificent butterfly. The males have iridescent purple wings that shimmer in the sunlight. They are quite rare and a joy to spot.
The mix of different trees and plants in Holton Wood provides the perfect food and shelter for these beautiful insects throughout their life cycle.
Why is Holton Wood Important?
Holton Wood is a fantastic example of an ancient woodland that has been carefully managed. It's a living museum of nature, showing us how forests can thrive when protected. Its old trees, unique management style, and amazing wildlife, especially its butterflies, make it a truly special place. It's a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage for future generations to enjoy.
