Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Commons facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
Thursley Common
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| Area of Search | Surrey |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 1,878.5 hectares (4,642 acres) |
| Notification | 1991 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Commons is a very large natural area in Surrey, west of Godalming. It covers about 1,878.5 hectares (that's over 4,600 acres!). This special place is important for its amazing wildlife, including insects, birds, and reptiles.
Parts of the Commons have different special protections. For example, Thursley Common is a National Nature Reserve. Other parts are Local Nature Reserves, like The Flashes and the Elstead Group of Commons. These areas are managed by the Surrey Wildlife Trust to help nature thrive.
What Makes This Place Special?
This area is known for its unique natural habitats. It's mostly heathland, which is a type of open land with small shrubs. But it also has a very important valley bog (a wet, muddy area) on Thursley Common. This bog is considered one of the best in the whole country.
The Commons are super important for many reasons. They are home to a wide variety of creatures. This includes rare insects, many different kinds of birds, and special reptiles like the sand lizard.
Special Designations Explained
Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Commons has several important titles that show how valuable it is for nature. These titles help protect the area and its wildlife.
Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)
This entire area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, or SSSI. This means it's one of the best places in the country for its wildlife or geology. The government protects SSSIs to make sure their special features are looked after.
National Nature Reserve (NNR)
Thursley Common is also a National Nature Reserve. NNRs are the most important places for wildlife and geology in the UK. They are managed to protect nature and sometimes allow people to visit and learn.
Ramsar Site (Wetlands)
A part of the Commons, called Thursley & Ockley Bogs, is a Ramsar site. Ramsar sites are wetlands that are important around the world. They are recognized for their unique plants, animals, and water habitats.
Special Protection Area (SPA) and Special Area of Conservation (SAC)
The Commons are also a Special Protection Area (SPA) and part of a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). SPAs protect rare or vulnerable birds and their habitats. SACs protect rare or threatened habitats and species other than birds. These titles show how important the area is for protecting Europe's natural heritage.
Amazing Wildlife
This area is a fantastic home for many different animals. It's especially important for its insects, birds, and reptiles.
Insects and Other Small Creatures
The Commons are buzzing with life, especially tiny creatures! Many different kinds of invertebrates (animals without backbones) live here. One special insect found here is the large marsh grasshopper. This grasshopper is nationally rare, meaning it's not found in many other places in the country.
Birds of the Commons
If you love birds, this place is for you! Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Commons is one of the best places in southern England for birds. Many different species live and breed here, making it a lively place for birdwatchers.
Reptiles and Amphibians
The Commons are also super important for reptiles. It's one of the best places to find them. A very special reptile that lives here is the sand lizard. This lizard is nationally rare and needs special habitats like the heathland found here to survive.
