Lydden and Temple Ewell Downs facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Kent |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 63.2 hectares (156 acres) |
| Notification | 1986 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Lydden and Temple Ewell Downs is a very special place for nature near Dover in Kent, England. It covers about 63.2-hectare (156-acre) of land. This area is protected because it has unique plants and animals. It is known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), which means it's one of the best places in the country for wildlife.
It's also part of a larger protected area called the Lydden Temple Ewell National Nature Reserve. This reserve is managed by the Kent Wildlife Trust, a group that works to protect wildlife. The Downs are also part of the beautiful South Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
What Makes This Place Special?
Lydden and Temple Ewell Downs is famous for its amazing chalk downland. This is a special type of grassland that grows on chalky soil. It's one of the richest places in Kent for this kind of habitat.
The area is home to many different kinds of plants and animals. It's especially important for tiny creatures without backbones, like insects.
Amazing Animals
This nature reserve is a fantastic spot for butterflies! You can see many different types flying around. Some of the beautiful butterflies found here include:
- The marbled white butterfly, which has a striking black and white pattern.
- The adonis blue butterfly, known for its bright blue wings.
- The silver-spotted skipper, a very rare butterfly that is hard to find elsewhere.
These butterflies and other insects thrive in the chalk downland habitat.
Visiting Lydden and Temple Ewell Downs
You can visit Lydden and Temple Ewell Downs and explore its beautiful countryside. There are public paths that allow you to walk through different parts of the site. It's a great place to enjoy nature and spot some of the rare butterflies and other wildlife.
