Old Sulehay Forest facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
A path through Old Sulehay Forest
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| Area of Search | Northamptonshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 34.8 hectares |
| Notification | 1984 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Old Sulehay Forest is a very special natural area located east of King's Cliffe in Northamptonshire, England. It covers about 34.8 hectares, which is roughly the size of 50 football fields! This forest is part of a larger nature reserve called Old Sulehay, which is 85 hectares in total.
The Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire looks after this amazing place. They work hard to protect the plants and animals that live here.
Contents
What Makes Old Sulehay Forest Special?
Old Sulehay Forest is known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it's a protected area because of its unique wildlife, plants, or geology. The government decided it was important to protect this forest in 1984.
Why is it a SSSI?
This forest is very old and has different types of soil. This helps many different kinds of plants grow. It also has areas where trees have been managed using an old method called "coppicing." This involves cutting trees close to the ground to encourage new shoots to grow, which creates different habitats for wildlife.
Plants and Trees You'll Find
The ground in Old Sulehay Forest is full of many different plants. These plants are often called "ground flora" or "herbs." You can find lots of them here!
Some of the common plants that grow on the forest floor include:
- Dog's mercury: A common plant that grows in shady, damp woods.
- Bracken: A tall fern that can cover large areas.
- Bramble: The plant that gives us blackberries!
- Ramsons: Also known as wild garlic, it has a strong smell and white flowers.
- Wood anemone: A delicate white flower that blooms in spring.
- Bluebells: These beautiful blue flowers create a stunning carpet in the spring.
How to Visit Old Sulehay Forest
If you want to explore this special forest, you can access it by footpaths. These paths lead from Wansford Road, making it easy for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of Old Sulehay Forest. It's a great place to go for a walk and enjoy nature!
