Rushmore and Conholt Downs facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Hampshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 111.5 hectares (276 acres) |
| Notification | 1984 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Rushmore and Conholt Downs is a very special natural area in Hampshire, England. It covers about 111.5 hectares (276 acres) of land. This is like having 275 football fields! This amazing place is protected because it's home to unique plants and animals. It is known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Contents
What Makes Rushmore and Conholt Downs Special?
This area is super important for nature. It is a "biological" SSSI. This means it is protected for its living things. It is also a Nature Conservation Review site, Grade I. This means it is one of the best places in the whole country for nature. It was officially recognized as special in 1984.
Exploring the Landscape
Rushmore and Conholt Downs has different types of land. You will find open grasslands and areas with bushes called scrub. There are also beautiful woodlands to explore.
Grasslands and Scrub
The chalk downs here have special grasslands. These areas are great for many insects and birds. The scrub areas provide shelter for animals. They also offer places for birds to nest.
Wonderful Woodlands
The woodlands at Rushmore and Conholt Downs are mostly filled with oak and ash trees. There is also a lot of hazel coppice. Coppice means the trees are cut back regularly. This helps new shoots grow from the base. It creates a dense, healthy woodland.
The Amazing Juniper Trees
One of the most special things about Rushmore and Conholt Downs is its stand of juniper trees. These trees are over a hundred years old! They are thought to be the oldest juniper trees growing on chalk soil in England. Some of these ancient trees are more than 6 metres (20 feet) tall. They stand tall and proud, showing their age and importance.
