Image: Croxton Park, near Croxton Kerrial - geograph.org.uk - 67369

Description: Croxton Park, near Croxton Kerrial. Very rough scrubby land falling away to the stream which is one of the feeders into the lakes at Belvoir Castle. The main A607 runs just below the hill in the background. Croxton Park is of medieval origin. It is probably the best remaining example of ancient parkland in Leicestershire with largely unimproved rough pasture around the ancient trees. The lichen flora is amongst the richest in the East Midlands and the diversity of breeding birds is outstanding. The site lies partly on the Northampton sands but the valleys cut into Upper Lias Clay. On the sands a neutral to acid grassland has developed. Marshy areas within are dominated by rushes. Meadow grasses and cowslips occur in areas which are influenced by the underlying Lincolnshire limestone. Ancient pedunculate oaks and hawthorns occur sparingly in the grazed areas and amongst 200 year old oak plantations. The old oaks and ash trees in the sheltered valleys support many uncommon lichens. The old limestone walls also support a good selection of lichens including the only County record of Lecania baeomma. The old hollow trees, scrub filled valleys, ponds and large expanses of grassland provide excellent breeding bird habitats. Species include mallard, snipe, woodcock, curlew, woodpeckers, redstart, tree pipit, yellow wagtail and corn bunting.
Title: Croxton Park, near Croxton Kerrial - geograph.org.uk - 67369
Credit: From geograph.org.uk
Author: Kate Jewell
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