Westwood Woodland Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Westwood Woodland Park |
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| Type | Local Nature Reserve |
| Location | Southampton, Hampshire |
| OS grid | SU 454 095 |
| Area | 49.5 hectares (122 acres) |
| Managed by | Hampshire County Council and Southampton City Council |
Westwood Woodland Park is a special natural area in Southampton, Hampshire. It covers about 49.5 hectares, which is like 122 football fields! This park is officially a Local Nature Reserve, meaning it's protected because of its important wildlife and natural environments. It is owned by Hampshire County Council and managed by both Hampshire County Council and Southampton City Council.
Contents
Discovering Westwood Woodland Park
A Look Back in Time
Long, long ago, during the Middle Ages, Westwood Woodland Park was part of a much larger estate. This land belonged to Netley Abbey, a famous monastery from that time. This long history means the park has some really old trees and natural features that have been around for centuries.
What Kinds of Nature Live Here?
Westwood Woodland Park is home to many different types of natural environments, called habitats. These include:
- Ancient Woodland: This part of the park has very old trees, some of which have been growing for hundreds of years. You can find trees like oaks and areas where hazel trees have been coppiced (cut back to encourage new growth).
- Streams and Ponds: Water is a big part of the park, with small streams flowing through it and peaceful ponds. These watery areas are perfect homes for many different creatures.
- Marshes: Some parts of the park are marshy, meaning they are wet and boggy. Special plants and animals that love damp conditions thrive here.
- Grassland: Open grassy areas provide a different kind of habitat, where wildflowers can grow and insects can buzz around.
Who Lives in the Park?
Westwood Woodland Park is a fantastic place for wildlife. It's known for having several types of rare beetles, which are important for the park's ecosystem. Many different birds also call the park home, including:
- Barn Owls: These beautiful birds with heart-shaped faces hunt for food in the open areas.
- Skylarks: You might hear their cheerful songs high up in the sky.
- Linnets: Small, pretty birds often found in grassy and heathland areas.
- Meadow Pipits: Another type of small bird that likes open grasslands.
The park's mix of habitats makes it a perfect place for all these different species to live and thrive. It's a great spot to explore and learn about local wildlife!
