Shorne and Ashenbank Woods facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Kent |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 197.4 hectares (488 acres) |
| Notification | 1988 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Shorne and Ashenbank Woods is a large, protected area of nature in Kent, England. It covers about 197.4 hectares (488 acres), which is like 488 football fields! This special place is located between the towns of Rochester and Gravesend. Part of these woods is also known as Shorne Wood Country Park, which is a popular spot for visitors.
Contents
Discover Shorne and Ashenbank Woods
Shorne and Ashenbank Woods is a very important place for nature. It is officially called a "Site of Special Scientific Interest," or SSSI. This means the area is protected by law because it has rare wildlife or special natural features.
A Home for Amazing Wildlife
These woods are home to many different kinds of insects and small creatures. They are especially important for invertebrates, which are animals without backbones. You can find lots of dragonflies, beetles, and "true bugs" here.
Rare Insects You Might Find
Some of the insects living in Shorne and Ashenbank Woods are quite rare. For example, two special kinds of beetles, Mordella holomelaena and Peltodytes caesus, live here. These woods provide the perfect habitat for them to thrive.
Ponds for Wildlife
In the past, there were places in the woods where clay was dug out of the ground. These old clay pits have now been changed into shallow ponds. These ponds are designed to be perfect homes for different kinds of wildlife, especially insects and amphibians.
Exploring the Woods
Good news! You can visit Shorne and Ashenbank Woods. There are paths and areas where people can walk and enjoy nature. It's a great place to explore and see some of the amazing plants and animals that live there.
