Swyncombe Downs

Last updated
Swyncombe Downs
Site of Special Scientific Interest
Swyncombe Downs - geograph.org.uk - 677181.jpg
Location Oxfordshire
Grid reference SU 676 911 [1]
InterestBiological
Area47.1 hectares (116 acres) [1]
Notification 1984 [1]
Location map Magic Map

Swyncombe Downs is a 47.1-hectare (116-acre) biological Site of Special Scientific Interest east of Wallingford in Oxfordshire. [1] [2]

This is an area of chalk grassland and scrub on the steep slopes of the Chiltern Hills. The site is described by Natural England as outstanding for its butterflies and moths. Butterflies include the silver-spotted skipper, which is nationally rare, grizzled skipper and dark green fritillary. There are day flying moths such as the cistus forester, chimney sweeper and wood tiger. [3]

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References

  1. 1 2 3 4 "Designated Sites View: Swyncombe Downs". Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Natural England. Retrieved 29 March 2020.
  2. "Map of Swyncombe Downs". Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Natural England. Retrieved 29 March 2020.
  3. "Swyncombe Downs citation" (PDF). Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Natural England. Retrieved 29 March 2020.

51°36′54″N1°01′30″W / 51.615°N 1.025°W / 51.615; -1.025