Robins Wood facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Kent |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 47.7 hectares (118 acres) |
| Notification | 1987 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Robins Wood is a really special natural area in Kent, England. It covers about 47.7 hectares, which is like 118 football fields! This amazing place is officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because of its unique plants and natural features. It's located between the towns of Tunbridge Wells and Ashford.
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What Makes Robins Wood Special?
Robins Wood is a deep valley with a stream flowing through it. This creates a very humid, or damp, environment, which is perfect for certain types of plants to grow. The wood is part of a larger natural region called the Weald, which is known for its beautiful woodlands and rolling hills in southeast England.
A Home for Unique Plants
One of the most exciting things about Robins Wood is its incredible variety of plants, also known as its flora. You can find many different kinds of:
- Mosses: These are tiny, soft green plants that often grow in damp, shady places.
- Ferns: These plants have feathery leaves and reproduce using spores instead of seeds.
- Liverworts: These are small, simple plants that look a bit like flat leaves or tiny mosses, and they love very moist conditions.
The damp valley environment at Robins Wood is ideal for these plants to thrive.
Ancient Woodland History
The trees in Robins Wood are very old, making it an ancient woodland. Scientists believe that the trees here started growing back after the last ice age ended, about 11,700 years ago! Imagine, these woodlands have been growing and changing for thousands of years, making them a living link to the past. This long history means the woodland has developed a rich and stable ecosystem.
Exploring Robins Wood
If you love nature and exploring, you'll be happy to know that there are footpaths that go through some parts of Robins Wood. These paths allow visitors to experience the beauty and peacefulness of this special natural site while helping to protect its delicate environment. It's a great place to go for a walk and discover the amazing plants and the quiet atmosphere of an ancient forest.
