Woldingham and Oxted Downs facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Surrey |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 128.4 hectares (317 acres) |
| Notification | 1986 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Woldingham and Oxted Downs is a special natural area in Surrey, England. It covers about 128.4 hectares, which is like 317 football fields! This place is known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it's protected because it has rare plants, animals, or important geological features.
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Exploring Woldingham and Oxted Downs
This amazing site is located east of Caterham in Surrey. It sits on the North Downs, which are a range of chalk hills. The area is sloped, offering different types of habitats for plants and animals.
What Makes This Place Special?
Woldingham and Oxted Downs is important for its diverse natural environments. It has three main types of habitats:
- Chalk grassland: This is a special type of grassy area that grows on chalky soil. It's full of unique wildflowers.
- Woodland: There are also areas with trees, providing homes for many creatures.
- Scrub: This refers to areas with bushes and small trees. These areas are important for birds and insects.
The mix of these habitats makes the Downs a fantastic place for many different species to live. It's especially known for its rich variety of plants.
Amazing Plants You Can Find Here
The chalk grassland areas are particularly special because they have so many different kinds of plants. Many of these plants are found in areas where animals graze, which helps keep the grass short and allows wildflowers to grow.
Grasses and Flowers
You might spot several interesting grasses and flowers here. Some common ones include:
- Red fescue and sheep’s fescue: These are types of grasses that grow well in chalky soil.
- Quaking grass: This grass has delicate seed heads that tremble in the breeze.
- Yellow oat grass: Another type of grass that adds to the variety of the grassland.
- Purging flax: A small plant with tiny white flowers.
- Thyme: This plant has small, fragrant leaves and purple flowers.
- Common centaury: A pretty pink flower often found in grasslands.
- Yellow-wort: A bright yellow flower that stands out in the green landscape.
Rare and Beautiful Orchids
One of the most exciting finds at Woldingham and Oxted Downs is the bee orchid. This incredible flower looks just like a female bee! This clever disguise helps it attract male bees, which then pollinate the flower. It's a wonderful example of how plants adapt to their environment.
