Stanton Great Wood facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Oxfordshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 58.2 hectares (144 acres) |
| Notification | 1987 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Stanton Great Wood is a very special forest in Oxfordshire, England. It covers about 58 hectares, which is like 143 football fields! This wood is officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, or SSSI. It's protected because it's home to many important plants and animals.
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Stanton Great Wood: A Special Place for Nature
Stanton Great Wood is a fantastic example of a traditional English woodland. It has been managed in a special way for a very long time. This helps keep the forest healthy and full of life.
What is a Site of Special Scientific Interest?
A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) is a place that is protected by law. These areas are chosen because they have rare wildlife, plants, or special geological features. Stanton Great Wood was given this special status in 1987. This means it's recognized as a really important spot for nature.
Trees and Plants of the Wood
The main trees you'll find in Stanton Great Wood are pedunculate oak, ash, and hazel. These trees are managed using an old method called "coppice with standards." This means some trees are cut back regularly to grow new shoots, while others are left to grow tall. This method creates different habitats for various plants and animals.
The wood has a "rich flora," which means there are many different kinds of plants growing there. You can find a wide variety of wildflowers, ferns, and other green things. This plant diversity is important for the insects and other creatures that live in the wood.
Amazing Insects of Stanton Great Wood
Stanton Great Wood is also home to a "diverse" group of insects. This means there are many different types of bugs, especially moths! Some of the cool moths you might find here include the buff footman, the poplar lutestring, and the blotched emerald.
One very special moth found here is the maiden's blush. Another important one is the small black arches, which is quite rare across the country. These insects are a big reason why this wood is so important and protected.
Visiting Stanton Great Wood
Stanton Great Wood is a private area. This means it is not open to the public for visits. Even though you can't walk through it, knowing about places like this helps us understand how important it is to protect nature. These special areas help keep our planet healthy for everyone.
