Woolhayes Farm facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
| Area of Search | Somerset |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 50°53′37″N 2°58′31″W / 50.89350°N 2.97533°W |
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 13.2 hectares (0.132 km2; 0.051 sq mi) |
| Notification | 1992 |
Woolhayes Farm is a very special natural area located east of Combe St Nicholas in Somerset, England. It covers about 13.2 hectares, which is roughly the size of 32.5 football fields! This land was officially recognized in 1992 as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, often called an SSSI.
Being an SSSI means that Woolhayes Farm has plants, animals, or natural features that are very important and need to be protected. It's like a special nature reserve where unique parts of the environment are kept safe.
Why Woolhayes Farm is a Special Place
Woolhayes Farm is important because it has types of land that are now very rare in Britain. These include areas of swamp, mire (which is like a bog or wet, spongy ground), and special kinds of grassland. These habitats are becoming harder to find, making Woolhayes Farm a vital home for many species.
It is the largest example of these rare habitats in Somerset. The plant and animal communities found here are also near the western edge of where they naturally grow. This makes the farm even more unique and important for scientists to study.
Amazing Plants and Animals
Woolhayes Farm is home to a variety of interesting plants and animals. One special plant found here is the corky-fruited water-dropwort (Oenanthe pimpinelloides). This plant is considered a "nationally scarce species," meaning it's rare across the whole country.
The farm is also a great spot for birds. Some of the birds that choose to breed here include the grasshopper warbler (Locustella naevia) and the reed bunting (Emberiza schoeniclus). These birds rely on the unique habitats at Woolhayes Farm to raise their young. Protecting this site helps these and many other species thrive.
