Wye Downs facts for kids
Wye Downs is a beautiful area of chalk hills and woodlands. It is located near the village of Wye in Kent, England. This special place is a National Nature Reserve. This means it is protected for its amazing wildlife and natural features. Natural England looks after it.
The Wye Downs area includes steep chalk slopes called escarpments. These slopes have several valleys known as coombes. These coombes were formed by frost and ice after the last ice age. The most famous coombe is called the Devil's Kneading Trough.
The land where the Wye Crown is found is also part of the National Nature Reserve. Imperial College London owns this field. The Crown was first carved into the chalk. Now, it is made of painted stones held in wire cages.
Wye Downs is also part of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest called Wye and Crundale Downs.
Amazing Wildlife
Wye Downs is home to many different kinds of plants and animals. It is a great place to see rare species.
Plants and Flowers
Over 21 types of orchids have been found here. One of the rarest orchids in the UK, the late spider-orchid, grows at Wye Downs.
Insects and Butterflies
Many uncommon insects also live here. These include the Duke of Burgundy butterfly. You might also spot the black-veined moth.
