Wildlife
Our rich chalk downland is home to an abundant wildlife
© Rob Hewer
Rich flora and fauna
Denbies Hillside (including Hackhurst Down, White Down and Ranmore Common) is a special place and the area is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) by Natural England for its rich variety of flora and fauna.
How do we manage the hillside?
Scrub clearance is crucial to maintain the downland habitat
© Rob Hewer
Cattle grazing is crucial during the summer to maintain the herb-rich chalk grassland. A local farmer provides hardy Belted Galloways, which can cope with conditions on the slopes. We also carry out scrub clearance during the winter months. Thorn scrub habitat is an important part of the grassland areas but, if left unchecked, it quickly encroaches over the hillside.
Our special wildlife
Many creatures from butterflies to lizards and flowers such as Bee Orchids can be found on the hill.
Spring on the hill
Trees are budding, flowers are blossoming and many creatures are stiring after the cold winter. This is a great time to visit the hill and see what's around. If you see anything unusual please email us.
What are those odd small hills?
Ants nurse the butterfly caterpillars in underground chambers
© Rob Hewer
Lots of ant hills can be seen among the grassland areas, and they shouldn't be disturbed. The ants take the butterfly caterpillars into the underground chambers of the ant hills and nurse them. The caterpillars secrete a milky fluid that feeds the ants and they in return receive protection from predators. This is a good example of symbiosis in nature.