Worth Forest facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
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| Area of Search | West Sussex |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 43.8 hectares (108 acres) |
| Notification | 1986 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Worth Forest is a special natural area covering about 43.8 hectares (that's about 108 acres, or 60 football fields!). It's located south of Crawley in West Sussex, England. This forest is officially recognized as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because of its amazing plants and natural features. It's also part of the beautiful High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
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What Makes Worth Forest Special?
Worth Forest is a very old woodland. It sits in a type of valley called a "ghyll" (pronounced 'gill'). A ghyll is like a deep, narrow ravine or gorge, often formed by a stream cutting through soft rock over many years. In this case, a stream has carved its way through soft sandstone, creating the unique shape of the forest floor.
Unique Habitats in the Forest
The forest has different types of land, which means different plants can grow there.
- Wet Valley Bottoms: The bottom of the valley is often wet because the water doesn't drain away easily. Here, you can find thick carpets of Sphagnum moss. This moss is very important for creating boggy, damp conditions.
- Dry Upper Slopes: As you go up the slopes, the land becomes much drier. These areas are home to a wide variety of other mosses, liverworts, and lichens. These small plants and fungi add to the forest's rich biodiversity.
Why is it a Site of Special Scientific Interest?
A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) is a protected area in the UK. It means the land has special plants, animals, geology, or landforms. Worth Forest was given this special status in 1986 because of its unique biological features. Protecting these areas helps keep rare plants and animals safe for the future.
Visiting Worth Forest
Worth Forest is mostly private land. However, there are public footpaths that cross through the forest. This means you can still explore parts of this amazing natural space and enjoy its beauty. Remember to stick to the paths and respect the private land.
