Long Lye Meadow facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
| Area of Search | Somerset |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 50°54′07″N 3°02′38″W / 50.90190°N 3.04377°W |
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 3.3 hectares (0.033 km2; 0.013 sq mi) |
| Notification | 2002 |
Long Lye Meadow is a very special 3.3-hectare area of grassland located near Buckland St Mary in the Blackdown Hills, Somerset, England. It's known as a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it's a protected place because of its important plants and natural features. It was officially recognized as an SSSI in 2002.
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Discovering Long Lye Meadow
Long Lye Meadow is a beautiful spot in the countryside. It's not just any field; it's a carefully protected area. The meadow is part of the Blackdown Hills, which is a range of hills known for its natural beauty.
What is a Site of Special Scientific Interest?
A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) is a special area in the UK that is protected by law. These sites are chosen because they have some of the best examples of wildlife, plants, or geological features. Long Lye Meadow is a "biological" SSSI, meaning it's protected for its amazing plant life and natural habitats. Being "notified" in 2002 means it was officially recognized and given this protected status in that year.
Home to Unique Plants
The grassland at Long Lye Meadow is very diverse. It has many different types of plants, making it a rich habitat.
- One of the most exciting plants found here is the green-winged orchid (Orchis morio). These beautiful flowers are quite rare and add a splash of color to the meadow.
- You can also find the common twayblade (Neottia ovata). This orchid has two large leaves that look a bit like a pair of wings.
- In some parts of the meadow, you might spot the meadow thistle (Cirsium dissectum). Even though it's a thistle, it's an important part of the meadow's plant community.
Protecting This Special Place
Long Lye Meadow, along with a nearby area called Long Lye, has faced challenges. There were plans to make the A303 wider, which could have put these special natural areas at risk. Protecting places like Long Lye Meadow helps make sure these important plants and their habitats can continue to thrive for many years to come.
