Leith Hill SSSI facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Surrey |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 337.9 hectares (835 acres) |
| Notification | 1991 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Leith Hill is home to a very special place called the Leith Hill Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It covers about 338 hectares (that's like 835 football fields!) and is located south-east of Dorking in Surrey, England. This SSSI is important because it protects amazing wildlife and plants.
The Leith Hill SSSI is made up of four different wooded areas that surround Leith Hill. These woods are like a giant natural home for many creatures.
Why Leith Hill SSSI is Special
Leith Hill SSSI was officially recognized as a special place in 1991. It's protected because of its incredible variety of living things. This area helps keep many different species safe and healthy.
Amazing Animals and Plants
The woods at Leith Hill are bustling with life. They are especially known for their diverse populations of birds and insects. Many of these creatures are rare or uncommon, making the area even more important.
Bird Life
If you visit Leith Hill SSSI, you might hear or see many different kinds of birds. These woods are a fantastic place for birds to build nests and raise their young. You can even find all three types of British woodpeckers here! Woodpeckers are known for pecking holes in trees to find food and create homes.
Cool Bugs and Moths
The insect world at Leith Hill SSSI is truly outstanding. Scientists have found many species here that are rare across the whole country. These include special beetles and moths.
For example, there's a beetle called Notolaemus unifasciatus that likes to live on dead wood. Another beetle, Silvanus bidentatus, enjoys munching on fungus. You might also spot the Agabus melanarius, which is a type of water beetle. Besides beetles, there are two types of moths found here that are also nationally rare. These tiny creatures play a big role in the ecosystem!
