Stonesfield Common, Bottoms and Banks facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
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| Area of Search | Oxfordshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 26.9 hectares (66 acres) |
| Notification | 1989 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Stonesfield Common, Bottoms and Banks is a special natural area in Oxfordshire, England. It covers about 26.9 hectares (66 acres). This place is called a 'Site of Special Scientific Interest' (SSSI) because it's important for its unique plants and animals.
What Makes This Place Special?
Stonesfield Common, Bottoms and Banks is a 'biological' SSSI. This means it's recognized for its important living things, like plants and wildlife. The site has steep valleys and banks, which create different kinds of habitats for nature.
Unique Grasslands and Woodlands
Most of this area is made up of unimproved limestone grassland. This type of grassland hasn't been changed by farming or fertilizers. It's very natural and full of different wildflowers. There are also areas of scrub, which are bushes and small trees.
The site also has a part that is semi-natural ancient woodland. This means it's a forest that has been growing for a very long time, and it's mostly natural, not planted by people. These different areas make the site a great home for many species.
Plants You Might Find
The main type of grass in Stonesfield Common is called upright brome. This grass is common in natural grasslands. You can also find many beautiful herbs and wildflowers here, such as:
- Field scabious: A plant with pretty purple flowers.
- Greater knapweed: Another plant with thistle-like purple flowers.
- Lady's bedstraw: A plant with small yellow flowers that grow in clusters.
- Pyramidal orchid: A striking orchid with pink or purple flowers shaped like a pyramid.
These plants show how special and natural the grassland is. They help support many insects and other animals.
