East Wickham Open Space is a large area of grassland and woodland currently being managed to improve its value for wildlife. The Green Chain Walk runs through the site.
Local Wildlife Site
Accessible Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation
East Wickham Open Space
Borough: Bexley
Grade: Borough Grade II
Access: Free public access (all/most of site)
Area: 31.35 ha
Description
Wildlife
Steep banks on the north of the site contain small areas of scrub and wildflower rich acid grassland with scattered gorse and broom. Wet willow and hornbeam woodland with abundant alder in the middle of the site supports a small population of wild garlic, a species rare in London. Hare's-foot clover and yellow flag iris are also present. The site supports breeding sparrowhawk and green woodpecker. The extensive areas of semi-improved grassland support large numbers of invertebrates, particularly grasshoppers, locally scarce ringlet butterfly and a population of common lizards.Facilities
Cycle paths; walking route
Grasshopper © Jason Gallier
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