Kingdown and Middledown facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
.jpg) |
|
| Area of Search | Somerset |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 51°16′32″N 2°44′49″W / 51.27556°N 2.74685°W |
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 5.7 hectares (0.057 km2; 0.022 sq mi) |
| Notification | 1991 |
Kingdown and Middledown is a special natural area in the Mendip Hills of Somerset, England. It covers about 5.7 hectares (which is like 14 football fields!). This site is officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because it's home to some very rare plants. It was given this important protection in 1991.
Contents
What is Kingdown and Middledown?
Kingdown and Middledown is a "Site of Special Scientific Interest," or SSSI for short. This means it's a place that has been recognized as really important for its plants, animals, or geology. The main reason this area is protected is because of the unique and rare plants that grow there. It's like a special nature reserve for these plants!
Where is this Special Place?
This SSSI is located on the high, flat land of the Mendip Hills. It's split into two parts. One part, called Kingdown, is at the end of a dry valley. Here, you can see Carboniferous Limestone rocks sticking out of the ground like a small cliff. Right across from this cliff is an old quarry where limestone used to be dug out. The special conditions of this limestone area are perfect for the rare plants that live here.
Amazing Plants You Can Find Here
Kingdown and Middledown is famous for its rare plant life. One of the most important plants found here is the Cheddar Pink (Dianthus gratianopolitanus). This beautiful pink flower is considered "nationally rare," meaning it's very hard to find anywhere else in the country. It grows in clumps on the rocky parts of the site.
You can also discover other special plants at Kingdown and Middledown. These include the Soft-leaved Sedge (Carex montana) and the Cheddar Bedstraw (Galium fleurotii). These plants are known as "nationally scarce," which means they are not as common as other plants and need protection to help them survive.
Why is Kingdown and Middledown Protected?
The main reason Kingdown and Middledown is protected as an SSSI is to keep its rare plants safe. By giving it this special status in 1991, experts made sure that the habitat for the Cheddar Pink, Soft-leaved Sedge, and Cheddar Bedstraw is looked after. This helps these unique species continue to grow and thrive for future generations to enjoy. Protecting places like this is super important for keeping our natural world healthy and diverse.
