Wormley-Hoddesdonpark Wood South facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Hertfordshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 192.5 hectares |
| Notification | 1984 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Wormley-Hoddesdonpark Wood South is a large and important natural area in Hertfordshire, close to Cheshunt. It covers about 192.5 hectares, which is like 475 football fields! This special place is protected because it's home to many important plants and animals.
It's known as a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it's one of the best places in the country for its wildlife. It's also part of the bigger Broxbourne Woods National Nature Reserve, which is a super important area for nature. On top of that, it's a Special Area of Conservation, meaning it's protected by European laws for its unique habitats.
Contents
Discover Wormley-Hoddesdonpark Wood South
Wormley-Hoddesdonpark Wood South is a fantastic example of a healthy woodland. It's a place where nature thrives, and it's protected so that future generations can enjoy it too. This area is listed in a very important book called A Nature Conservation Review, which highlights the most important wildlife sites in Britain.
Why Is This Wood So Special?
This woodland is protected for several key reasons. It's a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because of its amazing variety of life. These sites are chosen for their rare plants, animals, or special geology.
It's also part of a National Nature Reserve (NNR). NNRs are the most important places for wildlife in England. They are managed to protect nature and often allow people to visit and learn.
Finally, it's a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). This is a European-level protection that helps to conserve specific habitats and species across different countries.
Plants and Habitats You'll Find
The main part of Wormley-Hoddesdonpark Wood South is a beautiful forest. It's mostly filled with tall oak and hornbeam trees. These trees grow well here because the soil is mainly made of London clay.
Underneath the trees, you'll find a rich variety of smaller plants. These include common brambles, which provide food for many animals. In spring, the woodland floor is often covered with delicate wood anemones and bright blue bluebells, creating a stunning display.
Besides the main woodland, there are other interesting habitats too. You might discover areas of marshland, which are wet, boggy places perfect for certain plants and insects. There are also patches of acidic grassland, which have different types of grasses and wildflowers that like slightly sour soil.
Who Looks After This Wood?
A big part of Wormley Wood is owned and cared for by the Woodland Trust. This charity works hard to protect and restore woodlands across the UK. They make sure the wood stays healthy and is a safe home for all its wildlife.
The northern edge of this special site is bordered by a road called White Stubbs Lane.
