Kings and Bakers Woods and Heaths facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Bedfordshire Buckinghamshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 212.8 hectares |
| Notification | 1984 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Kings and Bakers Woods and Heaths is a very special natural area in England. It covers 212.8 hectares, which is about the size of 500 football fields! This amazing place is located between Heath and Reach in Bedfordshire and Great Brickhill in Buckinghamshire. Most of it is in Bedfordshire, but a part called Rammamere Heath is in Buckinghamshire.
This area is so important that it was made a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in 1984. This means it's legally protected because of its rare plants, animals, or geology. It's also a National Nature Reserve and managed by the Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire, which helps look after nature.
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What Makes This Place Special?
Kings and Bakers Woods and Heaths is home to the largest remaining woodland in Bedfordshire. But it's not just woods! You'll also find open areas of lowland heath, which are like wild grasslands, and some small ponds. This mix of habitats makes it a perfect home for many different types of plants and animals.
Rare Plants You Might Find
This special site is known for its rare plant species. Some of these include:
- Great woodrush: A tall, grass-like plant that loves shady woodland floors.
- Wood vetch: A beautiful climbing plant with purple flowers.
- Saw-wort: A plant with thistle-like purple flowers that attracts many insects.
These plants are important because they are not found in many other places. Protecting this area helps them survive and thrive.
Amazing Animals and Insects
The diverse habitats at Kings and Bakers Woods and Heaths also support a rich variety of wildlife. If you visit, keep an eye out for:
- White admiral butterflies: These elegant butterflies have dark wings with white bands. They flutter gracefully through the woodlands.
- Tree pipits: Small birds known for their beautiful songs and their habit of singing while parachuting down from the sky.
Many other birds and insects also call this place home, making it a lively and buzzing environment.
Visiting Kings and Bakers Woods and Heaths
If you want to explore this wonderful natural area, you can find parking at Stockgrove Country Park. Part of Stockgrove Country Park is actually within the SSSI, so you can start your adventure there. It's a great place to connect with nature and see some of England's unique wildlife.
