At the heart of the Kent Downs and North Kent Woods NNR, a wealth of wildlife thrives. Some species, however, are particularly in need of our focus and action to ensure their future within this precious landscape. These Priority Species are essential to the ecological health of the area and provide a tangible focus for conservation efforts. By protecting these species, we are safeguarding the wider natural environment for generations to come.
Why They Matter
Each priority species has been selected for its significance to the NNR and its role within Kent’s broader ecosystem. Many of these species are rare or threatened, and their populations have been impacted by factors such as habitat loss, climate change, and human activities. Through targeted action—whether it’s land management, further research, or awareness campaigns—we can support these species and help them thrive in the wild.
Honey BuzzardThe rare Honey Buzzard thrives in Kent’s woodlands, feeding on wasps and insects. Its presence highlights a healthy ecosystem and rich biodiversity.
GoshawkThe Goshawk, a powerful forest raptor, hunts small mammals and birds in large woodlands. Its conservation is vital for protecting the Kent Downs’ forest ecosystem.
HobbyThe Hobby, a small and agile falcon, hunts insects and birds across Kent. It thrives in a mix of open and wooded habitats.
Lesser Spotted WoodpeckerThis striking small woodpecker relies on mature trees for nesting. With a declining population, it is a key focus for conservation in Kent’s ancient woodlands.
HawfinchThe Hawfinch, with its powerful beak, feeds on seeds and fruit from mature trees. Woodland protection is vital for sustaining this elusive bird’s population.
Long-eared OwlThe Long-eared Owl, a nocturnal hunter, depends on dense, mature forests. Protecting its habitat is essential for the health of Kent’s woodlands.
Hazel DormouseThe nocturnal Hazel Dormouse thrives in woodlands and hedgerows, feeding on nuts, berries, and flowers. It is a key indicator of Kent’s ecosystem health.
Harvest MouseIt nests in tall grasses and crops and is vulnerable to agricultural changes. Protecting hedgerows and grassy areas is vital for survival.
Brown HareBrown Hares thrive in Kent’s open farmland and grasslands, requiring large, undisturbed fields for grazing and breeding. They are key to grassland conservation efforts.
HedgehogHedgehogs, known for their distinctive spines, are in decline. They need hedgerows, gardens, and woodlands to thrive, making habitat protection crucial.
White-letter HairstreakThe rare White-letter Hairstreak butterfly depends on elm trees for its larvae. With elm decline affecting its population, focused conservation efforts are essential.
White AdmiralThis striking butterfly thrives in woodland clearings with bramble and honeysuckle. Protecting these habitats is essential for its survival.
Adonis BlueThe Adonis Blue, a chalk grassland butterfly, is known for its vibrant blue wings. Its conservation is vital for preserving Kent’s grassland ecosystems.
Liquorice Piercer MothThe rare Liquorice Piercer Moth, found in Kent’s chalky soils, feeds on liquorice plant roots. Its conservation highlights the importance of chalk grasslands for biodiversity.
Straw BelleThe rare Straw Belle moth thrives in Kent’s chalk grasslands. Protecting these meadows is vital for preserving both the species and the broader ecosystem.
Chalk Carpet MothThis moth thrives in chalk grasslands, emphasising the need to protect these rare, biodiverse habitats. Its conservation reflects a healthy chalk downland ecosystem.
Six-spotted Pot BeetleThe Six-spotted Pot Beetle, recently rediscovered in the Kent Downs, plays a key role in biodiversity. Its conservation is a success story of habitat restoration.
Saproxylic BeetlesThese beetles feed on decaying wood, recycling nutrients and supporting the ecosystem. Protecting ancient woodlands with ample deadwood is vital for their conservation.
Common ToadCommon Toads thrive in wetlands, ponds, and damp woodlands. Their conservation is crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems that support diverse wildlife.
Great Crested NewtThis amphibian depends on ponds and wetlands for breeding. Its conservation is vital for preserving Kent’s freshwater habitats and supporting other wetland species.
AdderThe Adder, the UK’s only venomous snake, inhabits heathlands and rough grasslands. Protecting these habitats is crucial for its survival and the local ecosystem.
Musk OrchidThe rare Musk Orchid thrives in chalk grasslands with specific soil conditions. Conserving these meadows is essential to protecting this delicate and beautiful species.
Lady OrchidThis striking orchid thrives in Kent’s woodlands under specific conditions. Its conservation underscores the need to protect healthy woodland ecosystems.
Ground PineThe rare Ground Pine thrives in chalk grasslands and needs careful habitat management. Protecting these unique meadows is essential for its survival.
Meadow ClaryMeadow Clary supports pollinators and enhances Kent’s biodiversity. Conservation efforts focus on protecting grassland habitats to ensure this rare plant’s survival.
Waxcap Grassland CommunityThese fungi recycle nutrients and indicate high-quality ancient grasslands, making their conservation vital for ecosystem health.
Oak-associated Dead Wood FungiThese fungi recycle nutrients from decaying oak, highlighting the need to protect ancient trees and deadwood habitats.
Hedgehog FungiThe Hedgehog Fungi supports woodland ecosystems, emphasizing the need to protect mature forests and fungal-rich habitats.The unique species that inhabit the Kent Downs and North Kent Woods NNR rely on the care and attention of everyone who values the natural world. By focusing on the conservation of our priority species, we are ensuring a healthy ecosystem for future generations. Whether it’s supporting local conservation initiatives or learning more about how you can make a difference in your own way, every action counts. Together, we can help safeguard Kent’s most important wildlife and protect the landscapes they call home.