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South Poorton - step back in time
South Poorton
A jewel in Dorset's ecological crown, this farmland has been managed in a traditional manner for centuries. Visiting this reserve is like stepping back in time.
In 2004, The Grasslands Trust bought 20 hectares (approx 51 acres) at South Poorton Farm, in West Dorset. Small flower-filled fields, ancient hedgerows and wet fens are typical features of this reserve and its surrounding landscape. The farm is jointly managed with the Dorset Wildlife Trust, who manage the reserve on a day to day basis.
What thrives in these meadows?
- Wild flowers abound in South Poorton including common knapweed, bird's foot trefoil and betony.
- Rich fens and wet meadows support yellow-flag iris, ragged-robin, several orchid species and wild angelica. The UK's largest insect – the great green bush cricket can also be found in these wet areas.
- Raven, common buzzard and many declining farmland birds such as yellowhammer use the meadows at South Poorton.
- Ancient hedgerow field maples are home to the rare shy cross your heart lichen
- The valley woodlands and grasslands abound with rare flies and craneflies.
- South Poorton Farm forms part of a larger landscape-scale project to link other nature reserves together. This will create a substantial area of countryside where people can enjoy the wildlife that thrives here.
Click here to find South Poorton.
What is currently happening at South Poorton:
Over the last few months, we have been working with the Kingcombe Centre nearby and Dorset Wildlife Trust to create a circular walk through this stunning farming landscape. The Anthill Trail opened April 2008 and is a fairly strenuous 3—4 hour walk involving steep climbs and ascents.
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