# file3

FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: barn owl, blackbird, blue tit, chiffchaff, cuckoo, crow, grey partridge, house sparrow, mallard, pied wagtail, skylark, song thrush, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Several small copper and small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen. 

There is evidence of rabbit grazing in the western half of the common.

VEG:
The only part of the common unfenced along the public road, at the eastern end (TG203323), contains tussocky {\it Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} dominated grassland with frequent {\it Holcus lanatus} and scattered {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Along the roadside, there are stands of {\it Anthriscus sylvestris} up to 5m wide, and further stands in the SW corner. In the SE corner, there is a small area of {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Salix} sp. dominated scrub.

The enclosure immediately to the west at TG201323 (viewed through binoculars) contains horse grazed, semi-improved neutral grassland, which appears to be dominated by {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} with locally frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne} and {\it Poa} sp. Other species noted: locally frequent {\it Carex hirta, Achillea millefolium, Bellis perennis, Centaurea nigra, Glechoma hederacea, Prunella vulgaris, Ranunculus acris, Rumex acetosa, R. obtusifolius, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Trifolium repens}. There are scattered patches of {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Cirsium arvense}. Sward height varies from about 3 to 25cm; some parts have been more heavily grazed than others. The pond near the road in this enclosure contains dense stands of {\it Glyceria maxima}.

The enclosure east of Goose Lane Farm contains poor semi-improved grassland near the road, which grades into semi-improved neutral grassland similar to that in the enclosure at TG201323, except that it also contains locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Bromus hordeaceus} and {\it Plantago lanceolata}. There are scattered patches (too small to map) of semi-improved acid grassland dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca} sp. with frequent {\it Potentilla erecta} and {\it Rumex acetosella}. The pond adjoining the roadside boundary fence at TG198325 contains frequent {\it Persicaria amphibia} and is fringed with frequent {\it Glyceria maxima, Juncus acutiflorus, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Ranunculus flammula}, plus occasional {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it J.inflexus}.  

Towards the west, the semi-improved neutral grassland described above grades into unimproved neutral grassland with scattered scrub and peripheral areas of dense scrub. The sward is horse grazed and generally less than 10cm high,  but contains locally abundant {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii} and {\it Dactylorhiza} sp. Frequent wide, shallow depressions contain abundant {\it Carex panicea} and {\it Pulicaria dysenterica}, often with frequent {\it Alopecurus geniculatus, Carex hirta, Glyceria fluitans, Cardamine pratensis, Equisetum palustre, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Ranunculus flammula}, plus occasional {\it Caltha palustris}. The scrub is mostly {\it Ulex europaeus}, with frequent {\it Rosa} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., plus occasional {\it Salix} sp. Saturated ground around a spring in the SW corner of the common (TG191320) supports all the species found in the shallow depressions, plus occasional {\it Apium nodiflorum, Filipendula ulmaria, Lychnis flos-cuculi} and {\it Triglochin palustris}. To the west of the spring, there are dense stands (too small to map) of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Typha latifolia} with frequent {\it Filipendula ulmaria}.

A discontinuous line of trees ({\it Alnus glutinosa, Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus robur}) of various ages, but including mature standards, runs along the southern boundary of the common.   

The common is listed in the East Anglian Valley Fen Dossier and described as follows:

"A quite narrow strip of grassland and fen along the north side of most of the length of a short, channelled tributary of the Scarrow Beck (a tributary of the River Bure). Much of the site is species-poor, neutral grassland of limited interest, but low-lying areas of the site (which often contain pools of standing water) support wetland vegetation. There is also some tall herb vegetation."

Quadrat data for the wetter areas of the common (Norfolk Grassland Survey, 1990) include stands classified as {\it Cynosurus-Caltha} flood pasture (MG8), but with some marginal species that may be suggestive of soligenous conditions. Species recorded include {\it Anagallis tenella, Blysmus compressus, Caltha palustris, Carex viridula} ssp. {\it oedocarpa, Dactylorhiza praetermissa, Equisetum fluviatile, E. palustre, Mentha aquatica, Myosotis scorpioides, Ranunculus flammula, Rumex palustris} and {\it Triglochin palustris} (E. Anglian Valley Fen Dossier, 1992).

MANAGE:
Used for cattle and horse grazing. A very diverse sward has developed in the western half of the common. This is exceptional in comparison to most other neutral grasslands on common land surveyed in the county. It would be desirable not to lose it by processes of improvement (eg. addition of fertilizers).

Continued grazing at an apppropriate level should keep scrub encroachment in check. It would be desirable to retain the existing areas of scrub as they provide nesting sites for birds and cover for amphibians and small mammals. 

In 1987, notes on field record cards from the Norfolk Grassland Survey commented that "Much of the site appears to be heavily overgrazed and poached" but the subsequent report suggests that "management is irregular and the site would benefit from grazing"! (E. Anglian Valley Fen Dossier).

The Thwaite Common Management Committee (Chaired by Lynn Bailey in 1997) had plans at the time of survey to make representations to the Secretary of State for the Environment (under Section 194 of the Law of Property Act 1925) to gain approval to erect fencing on the common.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chaffinch, house sparrow, woodpigeon. Areas of longer grass contain numerous grasshoppers. Several large white and small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen.

VEG:
The rank grassland is dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with locally abundant {\it Achillea millefolium} and {\it Potentilla reptans} plus locally frequent {\it Anisantha sterilis, Hordeum murinum, Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne, Anthriscus sylvestris, Centaurea nigra, Galium aparine, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Vicia cracca} and occasional {\it Calystegia sepium, Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Sambucus nigra, Silene vulgaris}, the nationally rare* {\it S. otites} and {\it Tragopogon pratensis}. Along the edge of the access tracks, there is frequent {\it Galium verum} and occasional {\it Plantago media}. 

There is a small area of {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated scrub towards the northern end of the common. A {\it Salix} sp. dominated hedge (up to 4m high and wide) with old {\it Salix alba} pollards runs along the western boundary. It is fringed with dense stands of {\it Urtica dioica}. At its southern end, there is a stand of {\it Quercus robur} trees. Along the riverbank (at the waters edge) there are dense stands of {\it Glyceria maxima} and {\it Phragmites australis}. 

*Nationally rare species are those occurring in 15 or few 10 km squares in Britain.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent management activities was seen.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, carrion crow, house sparrow, jackdaw, woodpigeon, swallow, yellowhammer. Several common blue, large white and small copper butterflies were seen.

VEG:
The common is a CWS which was surveyed 16.09.94 and therefore not revisited for the purposes of this survey. The following information is reproduced from the CWS survey:

"This extensive site occupies the fenland edge. It comprises a large area of well-grazed neutral grassland crossed with frequent hedge-lined dykes. The grassland is drier to the north and possibly semi-improved, but damper and unimproved to the south with frequent damp hollows and occasional standing water. The sward does not appear to be particularly diverse being generally
dominated by a few grass species although there is much local micro-topographical variation, and a good scrub-grassland matrix in places.

Semi-improved and unimproved neutral grassland is the dominant habitat throughout the site. The sward was well grazed at the time of survey.  Dominant grasses include {\it Lolium perenne, Holcus lanatus, Agrostis capillaris} with frequent {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Phleum pratense} and {\it Agrostis stolonifera}. {\it Poa annua} occurs on patches of bare ground, while {\it Dactylis glomerata} is present in less heavily grazed areas. Herbaceous species include {\it Rumex acetosa, Achillea millefolium, Cerastium fontanum} and {\it Trifolium repens}. Where scrub is present, {\it Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Mercurialis perennis} are found underneath. {\it Cirsium} spp. and {\it Senecio jacobaea} are present on drier banks with {\it Potentilla anserina, Ranunculus flammula, Cirsium palustre} and {\it Polygonum persicaria} restricted to damper hollows, largely in the south where occasional pools are present. Here the main drain held water at the time of survey although the majority of the remainder were dry. Although supporting a marginal flora of {\it Juncus effusus, Juncus conglomeratus, Phragmites australis, Glyceria} spp. and {\it Apium nodiflorum}. The dykes are in places lined by {\it Crataegus monogyna}.

Hedges and scrub are frequent across the site although particularly dense along the north east boundary where species include hawthorn {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra} and young {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Clumps of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. are frequent. {\it Ulex europaeus} is present in the south where it is heavily grazed, assuming a prostrate form, and ungrazed in the north east.

The site has a varied microtopography with numerous hollows and old drains particularly in the south. Poaching is frequent in the damper areas and the abundance of {\it Lolium perenne} in the north suggests semi-improvement."

There appears to be insufficient information from the CWS survey to determine whether there is any truly unimproved grassland on the common and therefore has all been mapped as semi-improved on the habitat map.

MANAGE:
Used for cattle grazing. Management suggestions made in the CWS survey include managing water levels, raising them in the north and rationalise car-parking.


FAUNA:
The following were recorded during the site visit: woodpigeon, swallows, mallards, the butterflies small copper, small blue and large white and the dragonfly {\it Ischnura elegans}.

VEG:
The majority of the common supports poor, semi-improved grassland with scattered broadleaved trees. The grassland is dominated by {\it Alopecurus pratensis} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} with abundant {\it Ranunculus acris} and occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata, Veronica chamaedrys, Anthriscus sylvestris, Carex hirta} and {\it C. ovalis}. Other species recorded were locally abundant {\it Rumex acetosa} and locally frequent {\it Holcus lanatus, Arrhenatherum elatius, Cerastium fontanum} ssp. {\it holosteoides, Achillea millefolium, Trifolium repens} and {\it Bromus hordaceous}. There are scattered small patches of acidic grassland with {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} and {\it Rumex acetosella} and some planted {\it Narcissus} sp. opposite houses. There is a rank area of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Poa} sp. grassland at the northern end of the common with abundant {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}, locally frequent {\it Urtica dioica, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Rumex obtusifolius} and occasional {\it Trifolium pratense}. 

The scattered trees (planted) include {\it Quercus robur, Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Acer campestre}. Other scattered trees include mature standard {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior, Aesculus hippocastanum, Populus} sp. and {\it Tilia} sp. The ranker area of grassland at the northern end of the common had scattered {\it Salix} sp. (some coppiced) and one old {\it Fraxinus excelsior} pollard. 

There are a few ponds on the common. The main one is shallow with scattered {\it Ranunculus} sp. (water crowfoot) and a clump of {\it Iris} sp. There is also a new pond dug in 1993 fringed with {\it Phalaris arundinacea} and occasional clumps of {\it Iris psedacorus} with {\it Urtica dioica} on the banks and occasional {\it Sambucus nigra}. The pond opposite the village stores was dry and grassed over.

MANAGE:
Part of the common (to the north of the main pond) was enclosed with temporary fencing with about 30 sheep. The sheep had access to the pond for water. There has been quite a lot of tree planting on the common both recently and in the past and a new pond had been dug (1993). Part of the common is managed as a sports pitch.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, moorhen, mute swan, swallow, yellowhammer. Several small tortoiseshell and ringlet butterflies were seen and 1 muntjac deer. Numerous cinnabar moth caterpillars were seen on {\it Senecio jacobaea}.

VEG:
Patchy acid grassland (on sandy soil) dominated by {\it Agrostis} sp. with occasional {\it Carex arenaria, Deschampsia cespitosa, Cladonia} sp. and {\it Polytrichum} sp. occupies the northern part of the common. There are scattered young {\it Pinus} sp. (which appear to have spread from an adjacent plantation) and {\it Quercus robur}, and scattered areas of bare ground which appear to have been caused by cable laying operations for the adjacent power station (under construction) to the north. Along the eastern bank of the Little Ouse River there are dense stands of {\it Conium maculatum}.

To the south of the area described above, in the linear section of the common, the acid grassland gives way to secondary broadleaved woodland fringed with scrub ({\it Salix} spp.), dense bracken and tall ruderal vegetation. The woodland is a mixture of {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Quercus robur} with scattered {\it Alnus glutinosa} in the lower, wetter areas. The fringing tall ruderal vegetation is dominated by {\it Conium maculatum} or {\it Urtica dioica} with locally frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus, Filipendula ulmaria, Galium aparine} and {\it Senecio jacobaea}, plus occasional {\it Carex acutiformis} and {\it Echium} sp. At the southern end of the common, there is a small area of {\it Pinus} sp. plantation.

MANAGE:
No ongoing management apparent, apart from a small area of planting ({\it Pinus} sp.) at the southern end of the common.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, house sparrow, swallow, woodpigeon.

VEG:
There are mature {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} trees along the roadsides. 2 weeping willows {\it Salix} sp. are situated on the central area of the common. The young broadleaved plantation along the NE facing boundary is a mixture of {\it Acer campestre, A. pseudoplatanus, Betula pendula, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra} with scattered {\it Prunus spinosa} - this may have resulted from natural seeding.

Along the bank of the River Thet at the eastern end of the common, there is a small area of rank grassland dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} with frequent {\it Achillea millefolium, Urtica dioica} and {\it Silene alba}. The riverbank supports dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it U. dioica} with abundant {\it Glyceria maxima} along the waters edge.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, moorhen, swallow, yellowhammer. Several small tortoiseshell and ringlet butterflies were seen. Numerous cinnabar moth caterpillars were seen on {\it Senecio jacobaea}.

VEG:
The tall ruderal vegetation is dominated by {\it Conium maculatum} or {\it Urtica dioica} with locally frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus, Filipendula ulmaria, Galium aparine} and {\it Senecio jacobaea} plus occasional {\it Carex acutiformis, Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Echium} sp. This vegetation is interspersed with scattered {\it Salix} spp. and young {\it Alnus glutinosa}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, house sparrow, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Numerous common frog tadpoles were seen in pond 1.

VEG:
The semi-improved neutral grassland is a mixture of {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne} and {\it Poa} spp. with locally frequent {\it Anisantha sterilis, Achillea millefolium, Anthriscus sylvestris} (along roads), {\it Bellis perennis Centaurea nigra, Galium verum, Glechoma hederacea, Lathyrus pratensis, Leucanthemum vulgare, Plantago lanceolata, Potentilla reptans, Ranunculus acris, Rumex acetosa, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Trifolium pratense,  T. repens} and {\it Vicia sativa} plus occasional {\it Geranium dissectum, Primula veris, Tragopogon pratensis} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys}.  

There are also scattered areas of semi-improved acid grassland (mostly too small to map) dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca ovina} with frequent {\it Achillea millefolium, Pilosella officinarum} and {\it Rumex acetosella}. 

At the northern end ot the common, there are small areas of plantation woodland ({\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Quercus robur}) and a small area of {\it Quercus robur} dominated woodland (semi-mature and mature standard trees). Ground flora species include locally frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Hedera helix, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Urtica dioica}. A row of Lombardy poplars has been planted along one of the access tracks in the northern half.

Along the CL boundary, there are discontinuous, scrubby hedgerows up to 4m high and 6m wide. They are dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} with locally frequent {\it Prunus spinosa, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Salix} sp. and {\it Sambucus nigra} plus occasional young {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Fraxinus excelsior} and mature standard {\it Quercus robur}. 

3 of the ponds on the common were surveyed. Pond 1 (TM103807) is mostly occupied by dense stands of {\it Glyceria maxima} with small areas of open water adjoining the bank which contain frequent {\it Persicaria amphibia} and {\it Ranunculus} sp. (water crowfoot) plus occasional {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica} and {\it Potamogeton natans}. These small areas of open water are fringed with frequent {\it Glyceria fluitans, Juncus acutiflorus} and {\it Mentha aquatica} plus occasional {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it J. inflexus}. 

Pond 2 (TM103804) contains occasional {\it Nymphaea alba}, fringed with occasional {\it Iris pseudacorus, Juncus effusus} and {\it J. inflexus}. There are 2 {\it Salix alba} trees on the southern side.

Pond 3 (TM104805) contains abundant {\it Potamogeton crispus}, fringed with stands of {\it Glyceria maxima}. It is partly shaded by surrounding young {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Ulmus procera} trees.

MANAGE:
2 loose cows, 2 tethered horses and a tethered goat were seen in the southern half of the common. It is likely that the tethered livestock is moved around the common as required. Parts of the grassland may be cut for hay in the late summer. The area recorded as B6 appears may have been re-seeded; to maintain floristic diversity, it would be desirable to avoid re-seeding or conversion to improved pasture.

Some planting of broadleaved trees has taken place in the northern half of the common. The dense, scrubby boundary hedgerows provide a good area of cover for birds and small mammals in a predominantly open, arable landscape.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, song thrush, yellowhammer. There is evidence of heavy rabbit grazing.

VEG:
The unimproved acid grassland which occupies most of the area of the common is dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca ovina} with abundant {\it Rumex acetosella} plus locally frequent {\it Hypochaeris radicata, Erodium cicutarium} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys}, scattered {\it Ulex europaeus} and patches of {\it Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica}. The sward is heavily rabbit grazed and generally less than 6cm in height, except around the edges of dense scrub. The {\it R. acetosella} is so abundant that, from a distance, it gives the sward an orange hue. Towards the northern end of the common, the unimproved acid grassland grades into semi-improved acid and semi-improved neutral grassland. The latter is mostly dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus}.

Along the eastern boundary, there is an area of {\it Ulex europaeus} dominated scrub with occasional {\it Ulex gallii}. Along the northern boundary, there is a belt of tall ruderal vegetation dominated {\it Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica} with scattered {\it Salix} sp. and {\it Ulex europaeus}.

MANAGE:
Does not appear to be used for livestock grazing. No ongoing management apparent.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chaffinch, house sparrow, yellowhammer. Several small copper butterflies were seen.

VEG:
All the grassland on the common was uncut at the time of survey and had not been grazed recently. Sward height was in the range 25 to 60cm. The semi-improved neutral grassland is dominated by {\it Alopecurus pratensis} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} with locally abundant {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Achillea millefolium, Centaurea nigra, Leucanthemum vulgare} and {\it Rumex acetosa}, plus locally frequent {\it Carex panicea, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Lathyrus pratensis, Potentilla reptans, Pulicaria dysenterica} and {\it Ranunculus acris} and occasional {\it Geranium dissectum} and {\it Silaum silaus}.

Areas recorded as unimproved neutral grassland contain the above species (but in different proportions) plus abundant {\it Briza media} with frequent {\it Agrimonia eupatoria, Galium verum} and {\it Orchis morio}, plus occasional {\it Filipendula ulmaria}.

The hedgerow along the NW boundary is up to 8m wide and 4m high. It is dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with frequent {\it Rosa} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.

MANAGE:
No livestock were seen at the time of survey. There is some scrub invasion from the hedgerow along the NW boundary but it is likely that most of the common is cut once a year and/or grazed lightly for a limited period.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, grey partridge, pheasant, pied wagtail, woodpigeon. The wet woodland, scrub, swamp and deadwood make the common attractive to a wide range of fauna (including amphibians) in a predominantly open improved grassland/arable landscape. Further survey is required. Curlews and nightjars breed here and the site is an important roost for raptors. Black Darter dragonflies present.

VEG:
Only a limited survey was carried out. The extent of the clearings shown on the map may not be accurate and should be checked using recent aerial photographs. 

Within about 50m of the CL boundary, the woodland is dominated by mature {\it Quercus robur} with locally frequent {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. On wetter ground towards the central part of the common, this grades into {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it F. excelsior} dominated woodland with scattered {\it Salix fragilis} and small clearings (probably created by fallen trees) where dense {\it Salix cinerea} scrub has developed. There is much standing and fallen deadwood. 

There is an understorey of scattered {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra} with locally frequent {\it Humulus lupulus} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum} plus occasional {\it Euonymus europaeus, Ligustrum vulgare, Rosa} sp. and {\it Viburnum opulus}; this gives way to {\it Salix} spp. on wetter ground.

The ground flora is dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Urtica dioica} with locally frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Dryopteris dilatata, Galium aparine, Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Glechoma hederacea, Hedera helix, Stachys sylvatica} and {\it Torilis japonica}, plus occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Arctium} sp., {\it Arum maculatum, Galeopsis tetrahit} and {\it Viola riviniana}. On wetter ground there is frequent {\it Carex acutiformis, Phragmites australis, Narthecium ossifragum, Drosera} spp. {\it Pinguicula vulgare, Angelica sylvestris, Cirsium palustre, Eupatorium cannabinum, Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Solanum dulcamara}, plus occasional {\it Juncus effusus, Caltha palustris, Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Scrophularia aquatica}. 

In the central area of the common, there is a large clearing. The area visible contains dense {\it Phragmites australis} fringed with frequent tall {\it Carex} sp. (possibly {\it C. acutiformis}) and occasional {\it Cladium mariscus}. Further survey of this area is required.

The drainage ditch running along the southern edge of Roydon Fen contains occasional {\it Hottonia palustris}. 

The fields within the CL boundary to the south of the fen appear to contain short, grazed improved grassland (viewed through binoculars only).

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent management activities was seen. It would be desirable to continue to leave standing and fallen deadwood {\it in situ}. In the long term, control of the spread of scrub onto the swamp in the central clearing may be required.


FAUNA:
The following were noted during the site visit: rabbit, yellowhammer, swallow, blackbird, woodpigeon, house sparrow, chiffchaff, the butterflies small copper and orange-tip and some burnet moths.

VEG:
The common supports large areas of continuous scrub with areas of semi-improved acid grassland with scattered scrub.

The grassland is less tha 5cm in height and comprises frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, Carex hirta, Rumex acetosella}, locally frequent {\it Cerastium fontanum, Galium saxatile, Holcus lanatus, Luzula campestris} and occasional {\it Juncus effusus, J. inflexus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Molinia caerulea}. The moss {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} was locally abundant. Scrub species included abundant {\it Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus} agg., locally frequent {\it Rosa} sp., {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Prunus spinosa} and occasional {\it Sambucus nigra, Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Salix} sp. There are some {\it Quercus robur} trees in the eastern area where there is also a small area dominated by {\it Juncus inflexus} with {\it J. effusus, Cardamine pratensis} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. 

Also recorded on the common were {\it Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas, Chamerion angustifolium, Veronica chamaedrys} and {\it Bryonia dioica}.

MANAGE:
No management observations were made. There are no pasture rights on the common, but the shortness of the grassland suggests it must be grazed (at least by rabbits). There has also been extensive scrub encroachment.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, house sparrow, magpie, woodpigeon, yellowhammer.

VEG:
The grass had recently been cut and the cuttings removed, and so it is possible that some herb species have been under-recorded.

The sward appears to be dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} with locally abundant {\it Dactylis glomerata, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Potentilla reptans}, plus locally frequent {\it Anisantha sterilis, Lolium perenne, Agrimonia eupatoria, Galium verum, Filipendula ulmaria, Leucanthemum vulgare, Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Stellaria graminea} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys}, plus occasional {\it Carex hirta, Geranium dissectum, Lathyrus pratensis} and {\it Silaum silaus}.

Along the western boundary, there is a discontinuous hedgerow of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with occasional {\it Rosa canina}. Along the base of the hedgerow and along the roadside, there is a belt (1 to 3m wide) of tall herb/grass vegetation dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata} with frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Galium aparine, Stellaria holostea, Torilis japonica} and {\it Urtica dioica}, plus occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium}.

MANAGE:
The sward had recently been cut, most likely for hay. It is not clear if any livestock are grazed on the common.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, chiffchaff, house sparrow, pheasant, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Several common blue, meadow brown and small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen.

VEG:
The rank grassland is dominated by {\it Alopecurus pratensis} with locally  abundant {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Poa} spp., and {\it Achillea millefolium}, plus locally frequent {\it Bromus hordeaceus, Carex hirta, Agrimonia eupatoria, Centaurea nigra, Leucanthemum vulgare, Plantago lanceolata, P. major, Potentilla reptans, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Rumex acetosa, Stellaria} sp., {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Trifolium pratense, T. repens} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys}, plus occasional {\it Phleum pratense, Filipendula ulmaria, Heracleum sphondylium, Lotus corniculatus} and {\it Tragopogon pratensis}.

The pond in the central area of the common contains dense stands of {\it Sparganium erectum} (occupies about 50 percent of area) with abundant {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica} and 1 large stand of {\it Iris pseudacorus}. The water is fringed with frequent {\it Myosotis scorpioides}. The bank supports abundant {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with frequent {\it Filipendula ulmaria}. The drains leading to/from the pond contain dense stands of {\it Sparganium erectum} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}. There are also 2 mature {\it Salix alba} trees and 1 mature {\it Populus} sp. tree.

Along the southern and eastern boundaries, there are wide, scrubby hedgerows which extend to form areas of dense scrub (15 to 20m wide). They are   dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with frequent {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it Sambucus nigra}, plus scattered {\it Acer campestre, A. pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur}. The tree species are of various ages, with trunk diameters up to 15cm at chest height.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent grazing was seen. The grass may be cut during the late summer. The wide scrubby hedgerows, dense scrub and adjoining long grass provide a good area of habitat for birds and small mammals in a predominantly open, arable landscape.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, blue tit, swallow. Several large white, meadow brown and common blue butterflies were seen. Areas of longer grass contain numerous grasshoppers.

VEG:
The grassland was uncut at the time of survey and had not been grazed recently. Sward height was in the range 25 to 50cm, except for the small area of semi-improved calcareous grassland, which was generally shorter (5 to 25cm). 

The semi-improved neutral grassland appears to be a mixture of {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Holcus lanatus}, although in the section west of the 54m spot height at TM142876, {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} is locally dominant. Other species recorded include locally abundant {\it Achillea millefolium, Ranunculus acris, R. repens} and {\it Rumex acetosa}, plus locally frequent {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Agrimonia eupatoria, Galium verum, Lathyrus pratensis, Leucanthemum vulgare, Plantago lanceolata, Stellaria graminea, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Vicia cracca}, plus occasional {\it Bromus hordeaceus, Carex ovalis, C. panicea} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria}.

The semi-improved calcareous grassland contains the same grass species but also frequent {\it Briza media} with abundant {\it Carex panicea, Agrimonia eupatoria, Galium verum} and {\it Lotus corniculatus} plus frequent {\it Bellis perennis, Primula veris} and {\it Prunella vulgaris}. The drains running through the semi-improved calcareous grassland contain abundant {\it Apium nodiflorum, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria} with frequent {\it Glyceria fluitans} plus scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Rosa} sp.

A discontinuous hedgerow (2 to 8m wide and up to 5m high) dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with frequent mature standard {\it Quercus robur} runs along the southern boundary of the common.

There is localized, scattered scrub ({\it Crataegus monogyna/Rubus fruticosus} agg.) in the central area of the common and scattered {\it Quercus robur} at the western end. About 80m west of Simonds Farm, there is a very old {\it Salix} sp. tree (probably {\it S. alba}).

Some {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} saplings (now 2 to 4m high) have been planted along the B1134.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent grazing was seen. The sward is probably cut once a year or grazed lightly for a limited period. The wide hedgerow with mature {\it Quercus robur} along the southern boundary, together with the long grass on the common, provides a good area of habitat for birds and small mammals in a predominantly open, arable landscape.


FAUNA:
Species seen during brief site survey: Yellowhammer, Pheasant, Green Woodpecker, Jay, Muntjac.

VEG:
Species observed during brief site survey of open grassland: {\it Sanguisorba minor, Achillea millefolium, Bellis perennis, Trifolium campestre, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Ophrys apifera, Anagallis tenella, Briza media, Polygala serpyllifolia, Listera ovata, Plantago media, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Primula veris, Potentilla erecta, Plantago lanceolata, Euphrasia} agg. {\it Carex nigra, Carex flacca, Equisetum} sp. {\it Leucanthemum vulgare}. In old ponds: {\it Phragmites australis, Carex} spp. Scrub areas include {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rosa canina, Prunus spinosa}.

NVC communities recorded at this site: M22a, M22b, M22c, M22d, M24a, M24b, M13b, M13c, S27b, S1, S2a, S4a, S25a, S25c, SD17d, CG2b/M24b, S9a/M22a, M13b, M24b, S2a, S25c, S26b, S25a, S25c. (Information provided by English Nature).

The woodlands are of {\it Quercus robur, Salix} spp. and {\it Betula} spp. with {\it Rubus fruticosus} as substantial understorey.

MANAGE:
From temporary site signs: Weed-wiping to eliminate ragwort. Restoration programme in place to conserve the pingo structures. Scrub control has been effected. Grazing by cattle.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chaffinch, house sparrow.

VEG:
The common was viewed from the road only, using binoculars. Young {\it Ulmus procera} dominated woodland with scattered mature {\it Fraxinus excelsior} appears to occupy the central area. There are peripheral areas of dense scrub ({\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Salix} sp.).

It is possible that there are clearings within the scrub/woodland which are not visible from the road.

MANAGE:
The extent of scrub and woodland suggests that grazing rights may no longer be exercised.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, coot, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Several large white, meadow brown and small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen, also several cinnabar moths. Areas of longer grass contain numerous grasshoppers.

VEG:
Those parts of the common along Sluice Road in Denver are either amenity grassland or tall grass/ruderal vegetation ({\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Elytrigia repens, Holcus lanatus, Cirsium arvense, Urtica dioica}). Outside Hollies Farm (TF603012), there are small enclosed areas of poor semi-improved and improved grassland. A pond just to the NE (TF604012) is fringed with dense stands of {\it Glyceria maxima} with frequent {\it Eleocharis palustris} and {\it Ranunculus flammula}. The bank supports dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Galium aparine} and occasional {\it Lythrum salicaria}. 

To the south, on the opposite side of the road (TF603010), there is an area of enclosed grazing land which contains semi-improved acid grassland, marshy grassland and tall herb vegetation with scattered scrub. The semi-improved acid grassland is dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} with frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus, Achillea millefolium, Hieracium pilosella} and {\it Rumex acetosella}. Sward height is generally less than 10cm. This grassland grades into marshy grassland dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} towards the western boundary; other species noted here include abundant {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}, plus frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Alopecurus pratensis, Carex hirta} and {\it Holcus lanatus} and occasional {\it Cirsium palustre}. Across most of this enclosure, there is scattered scrub ({\it Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus} agg., occasional {\it Salix} sp.). There are peripheral stands of tall herb vegetation ({\it Cirsium arvense, Urtica dioica}) along the eastern boundary.

The CWS description for Sluice common describes the area as a "cattle grazed common generally supporting rank neutral grassland. The very varied micro-topography includes numerous damp hollows and dry ridges.... Damp hollows support {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Juncus} spp. and {\it Potentilla anserina}. The drier hummocks and ridges, particularly to the east of the track, support {\it Pilosella officinarum, Rumex acetosella, Achillea millefolium, Plantago lanceolata, Agrostis capilaris} and {\it Aira praecox}. Between the two extremes {\it Holcus lanatus, Phleum pratense, Rumex acetosa, Senecio jacobaea, Cirsium vulgare} and {\it Carex hirta} occur. Towards the west large patches are dominated by {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Juncus} spp. Slightly drier rank areas are characterised by {\it Rumex obtusifolius, Arrhenatherum elatius, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica}." The scrub is described as becoming "denser in the south east corner around a large {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}, surrounded in turn by impenetrable stands of {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Cirsium palustre}."

A dyke bisects the site and is lined with species which include {\it Salix aurita, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Bryonia dioica}. The dyke itself supports {\it Juncus} spp., {\it Apium nodiflorum} and {\it Ranunculus sceleratus} (CWS description).

Verges along the the farm access tracks to the east of the area described above support tall grass/ruderal vegetation, species recorded: {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Elytrigia repens, Holcus lanatus, Hordeum murinum, Artemisia vulgaris} agg., {\it Cirsium arvense, Heracleum sphondylium, Lamium album, Tanacetum vulgare, Urtica dioica} and {\it Vicia hirsuta}. On the N. side of Track Cow Lane, there is a discontinuous, scrubby hedgerow dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} with frequent {\it Acer campestre} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and occasional {\it Bryonia dioica}.

Adjoining the A10, there is another area of grazing land, shown as Whin Common on the map (TF617010). This contains semi-improved acid grassland of a similar composition to the enclosure at TF603010, however, there is also frequent {\it Senecio jacobaea}. The grassland is fringed with areas of secondary broadleaved woodland ({\it Betula pendula}) along the A10 and dense scrub ({\it Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus} agg.). Just to the north of common road, there is an area of tall herb vegetation dominated by {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Phragmites australis} (along drains) and scattered {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Salix} sp. scrub. A few {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} saplings have been planted in this area.

Whin common is also a CWS described as follows:

"Dry acid grassland is the dominant vegetation although quite variable and becoming damp in places especially to the south. The vegetation in the area of the track is shorter, with a central hummocky rabbit grazed area supporting {\it Agrostis capillaris, A. stolonifera, Rumex acetosella, R. acetosa?} (listed as common sorrel {\it R. caesius?}), {\it Veronica} spp., {\it Achillea millefolium, Luzula campestris} and {\it Carex hirta}. It is badly invaded by {\it Senecio jacobaea} in places.

Long hollows in the north-east corner are a distinctive feature containing damp grassland. Species present include {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Juncus conglomeratus} and {\it Ranunculus flammula}.

Tall herb vegetation dominates the north west triangle, separated by steep, bare-sided ditches from the remainder of the area. The rank vegetation here includes {\it Phragmites australis, Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}. 

Mixed scrub is found around the periphery of the site, extending some way inwards in places... {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} intermingle with young {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur}.

A hedgeline dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} forms the eastern boundary."

The detached sections of the common to the north of Denver were not surveyed.

MANAGE:
No livestock were seen on the enclosed land at TF603010 or TF617010, but it looks as if it is still used for cattle and sheep grazing. Some locallised planting of trees was noted on Whin Common. The CWS descriptions relating to this common refer to cattle grazing on Sluice common and scrub clearance on Whin Common.


VEG:
Two parts of this common are designated the River Wissey County Wildlife Site. There is no public access to this common and the following information is reproduced from the CWS survey 11.07.95. The two parts support scattered scrub over neutral grassland. The scrub, although scattered, is abundant and dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} with occasional {\it Prunus spinosa}. {\it Salix cinerea, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Rosa canina} agg. are infrequent but significant components. The underlying grassland is dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus, Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Agrostis stolonifera}. Herbs include {\it Cirsium arvense, Ranunculus repens, Cynoglossum officinale, Thalictrum flavum, Rumex acetosa, Senecio jacobaea, Cerastium fontanum} ssp. {\it holosteoides} and occasional {\it Valeriana officinalis}. Wetter areas in the northern section are dominated by {\it Filipendula ulmaria} with {\it Juncus acutiflorus} and {\it Eupatorium cannabinum}. The area in between these two sections has been coded with the same grassland code as within the CWS but presumably is of poorer quality and has therefore been mapped as B6. There is no information on the southernmost end although the CWS survey states that the areas forming the CWS are surrounded by improved grassland and arable farmland. 

Borough fen is included in the East Anglian Valley Fen Dossier and in 1991 the site was described as still cattle-grazed  but virtually no fen apparent after three dry years. Sallows at the centre of the site were bare rooted (P.W.Lambley, 1992).

MANAGE:
"Improvements" were carried out during the 1970's and stock numbers increased with stock left on during the winter as well as the summer. In 1991 the site was still cattle-grazed (E. Anglian Valley Fen Dossier).


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, pheasant.

VEG:
The tall ruderal vegetation is mostly dominated by {\it Urtica dioica}; {\it Conium maculatum} is locally dominant. There is also locally abundant {\it Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Galium aparine}, with locally frequent {\it Symphytum x uplandicum} plus occasional {\it Arctium} sp. This vegetation is interspersed with patches of rank {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Elytrigia repens}. These are generally too small to map and the vegetation as a whole has been recorded as C31. There is also localized, scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Salix} sp. scrub. On the south side of the embankment, above the river, there are occasional stands of {\it Phragmites australis} (too small to map).

It should be noted that about 80 per cent of the length of the embankment was viewed through binoculars from nearby tracks to the north. The density of the vegetation prevented direct access along the public bridleway.


FAUNA:
Several ringlet butterflies and 1 banded demoiselle damselfly ({\it Calyopteryx splendens}) were seen in the SE section (TM717995). Areas of long grass here contain numerous grasshoppers.

VEG:
The verges of the farm access tracks are up to 3m wide. Species recorded include locally abundant {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Elytrigia repens, Lolium perenne} and {\it Poa} spp., with locally frequent {\it Achillea millefolium, Lamium album, L. purpureum, Ranunculus repens, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Urtica dioica} plus occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium}.

In the SE section (TL717995), there is a flood embankment which supports dense stands of {\it Urtica dioica} with abundant {\it Cirsium arvense} and {\it Galium aparine} plus frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Elytrigia repens} and {\it Phragmites australis} and occasional {\it Conium maculatum} and {\it Salix} sp.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent cutting of the verges was seen. The section at TM717995 appears to be unmanaged.


VEG:
Along the eastern side of the access track, there is a discontinuous scrubby hedgerow of {\it Acer campestre, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Salix} sp. The verges on both sides (which are up to 3m wide) support {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} dominated grassland with locally abundant {\it Dactylis glomerata, Elytrigia repens, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Lolium perenne} plus locally frequent {\it Phleum pratense, Anthriscus sylvestris, Artemisia vulgaris} agg., {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Plantago lanceolata} and {\it Urtica dioica} and occasional {\it Ballota nigra} and {\it Centaurea nigra}.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent management was seen. The verges may be cut once a year.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, house sparrow, grey partridge, skylark, swallow, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Several meadow brown and small copper butterflies and 1 rabbit were seen. Numerous common blue damselflies ({\it Enallagma cyathigerum}), pond snails and water boatmen were seen at ponds 1 and 6. Several smooth newts were seen in pond 6.

VEG:
The rank semi-improved neutral grassland is dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with abundant {\it Holcus lanatus} plus locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Dactylis glomerata, Deschampsia cespitosa, Poa} spp. and {\it Centaurea nigra} and occasional {\it Carex hirta, Cirsium arvense, Galium verum} and {\it Urtica dioica}. There are scattered patches (too small to map) of semi-improved acid grassland dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca} sp. with frequent {\it Galium saxatile}. There is also scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. scrub; this is concentrated around the ponds. The small areas of young broadleaved plantation contain a mixture of {\it Betula} sp., {\it Cornus sanguinea, Prunus} sp., {\it Quercus robur, Sorbus aucuparia, Salix} sp. and {\it Viburnum opulus}.

The largest pond (TM207912) has very gently sloping banks and an obvious draw down zone, suggesting the water was up to 0.3m deeper during the winter. It contains abundant {\it Chara} sp. and {\it Ranunuculus} sp. (water crowfoot), plus ocasional {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica} and {\it Nymphaea alba}. It is fringed with frequent {\it Alopecurus geniculatus, Glyceria} sp., {\it Lotus pedunculatus} and {\it Mentha aquatica}, plus occasional {\it Juncus inflexus, Lycopus europaeus, Ranunculus sceleratus} and {\it Typha latifolia}. Pond 2 (TM208913) to the NE contains rank grasses with scattered clumps of {\it Juncus inflexus}; there is no standing water. Pond 3 (TM206913) is similar. Pond 4 (TM20609145) contains abundant {\it Potamogeton natans} and is fringed with {\it Juncus inflexus} and {\it Typha latifolia}. Pond 5 (TM207915) contains {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} interspersed with scattered clumps of {\it Juncus effusus} (no standing water); it is surrounded by {\it C. monogyna, P. spinosa} and {\it R. fruticosus} agg. scrub. Pond 6 (TM20809145) contains abundant {\it Chara} sp. and {\it Potamogeton natans} with frequent {\it Eleocharis palustris, Glyceria fluitans} and {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica}. It is fringed with frequent {\it Alopecurus geniculatus, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Myosotis scorpioides} plus occasional {\it Lycopus europaeus} and {\it Oenanthe} sp.

MANAGE:
Except for a small area along the access track which had been mown recently, the sward is generally 30 to 60cm high. No evidence of recent livestock grazing was seen, or other management activity apart from the establishment of small areas of broadleaved plantation woodland. The remaining ponds will support a much larger range of amphibians and invertebrates than has been recorded here. Further survey to determine if great crested newts are present as well as smooth newts would be worth while.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: carrion crow, chiffchaff, house sparrow, magpie, mallard. 2 ringlet butterflies were seen and several rabbits.

VEG:
The large area of semi-improved neutral grassland (TG029030) in the northern half of the common is dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with locally abundant {\it Phleum pratense} plus locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Carex hirta, Dactylis glomerata, Poa} spp., {\it Glechoma hederacea, Silene alba, S. dioica, S. vulgaris, Ranunculus repens, Rumex acetosa, Stellaria graminea, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Trifolium pratense, T. repens} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys}. There are scattered patches of {\it Conium maculatum} and {\it Urtica dioica}. The grassland is fringed on its northern and eastern sides with dense scrub dominated by {\it Prunus spinosa} with frequent {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus} plus occasional {\it Bryonia dioica, Ligustrum vulgare, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Salix cinerea}. On the lowest ground along the CL boundary, the scrub is interspersed with patches of swamp vegetation dominated by {\it Phalaris arundinacea} with abundant {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Petasites hybridus, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica} plus occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Phragmites australis} and {\it Conium maculatum}. 

The western most part of the common (TG196031) is occupied by dense scrub dominated by {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} with frequent {\it Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus} and scattered {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} saplings. It is fringed with patches of tall ruderal vegetation dominated by {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium} plus occasional {\it Conium maculatum}. There is a narrow belt of young {\it F. excelsior} dominated woodland along the southern boundary.

The amenity grassland in the southern half of the common (TG200027) is fringed with tall ruderal vegetation dominated by {\it Urtica dioica} with locally frequent {\it Conium maculatum} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum}. Along its northern edge, there is a plantation of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. At the southern end, there is a more mature plantation of {\it A. pseudoplatanus} and {\it Populus} sp. A discontinuous scrubby hedgerow (up to 5m high and wide) dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} runs along the western boundary.

A limited survey was made of 5 of the ponds on the common. Pond 1 (TG199026, lying just outside the common boundary) is about 20m wide but no more than 30cm deep. It contains occasional {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica, Glyceria fluitans, Iris pseudacorus, Sparganium erectum, Typha latifolia} and {\it Veronica beccabunga}, fringed with abundant {\it Mentha aquatica} and frequent {\it Carex hirta, Ranunculus sceleratus} and {\it Lycopus europaeus}. The bank supports dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} with frequent {\it Conium maculatum} and {\it Urtica dioica} plus occasional {\it Dipsacus fullonum}.

Pond 2 (TG199025, also just outside the common boundary) contains dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica} (no standing water). Pond 3 (TG199024) just to the south is similar but also contains scattered {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

Ponds 4 and 5 (TG201030) appear to have been excavated recently; they are not shown on the original OS map and their banks are mostly bare soil. They contain occasional {\it Callitriche} sp. fringed with occasional {\it Juncus effusus}.

MANAGE:
It is not clear if grazing still takes place; it is most likely that this would be on the rank semi-improved neutral grassland in the northern half of the common. The recently excavated ponds will provide additional habitat for amphibians. 

Some planting has been carried out, most recently along the northern edge of the amenity grassland. The grassland around the young trees here has been allowed to remain rank (dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}) and this is preferable to maintaining a frequently mown short sward.

The dense scrub provides a good area of habitat for birds and small mammals, especially where it is interspersed with swamp and tall ruderal vegetation.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, house sparrow, mallard, moorhen, woodpigeon, yellowhammer.

VEG:
The grassland had been cut recently at the time of survey and the cuttings removed; it is possible that some species have been under-recorded.

The sward appears to be dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} with abundant {\it Achillea millefolium, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Trifolium repens} plus frequent {\it Agrostis} sp., {\it Lolium perenne, Poa} sp., {\it Centaurea nigra, Glechoma hederacea, Pimpinella saxifraga} and {\it Silaum silaus} and occasional {\it Agrimonia eupatoria} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys}.

In the southern half of the common, there is a small area of {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Populus} sp. woodland which may have been planted.

A mature {\it Fagus sylvatica} var. {\it purpurea} tree is situated at the northern end of the common, near the public telephone box.

Just outside the CL boundary (on the western side), there is a pond fringed with dense stands of {\it Iris pseudacorus} plus abundant {\it Solanum dulcamara} and frequent {\it Juncus effusus}. The bank supports rank {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with scattered {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium}.

MANAGE:
The grass had recently been cut, possibly in exercise of the right to cut and take herbage.


VEG:
The grassland had been cut recently at the time of survey; it is possible that some species were under recorded.

The semi-improved neutral grassland appears to be dominated by {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with locally abundant {\it Achillea millefolium, Potentilla reptans} and {\it Trifolium repens} plus locally frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Centaurea nigra, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg.; also occasional {\it Convolvulus arvensis, Pimpinella saxifraga, Silaum silaus} and {\it Tragopogon pratensis}. The strip of semi-improved neutral grassland on the eastern side of the common has a similar composition to the above, but also contains frequent {\it Agrimonia eupatoria, Daucus carota, Lotus corniculatus} and the nationally scarce* {\it Trifolium ochlroleucon}.

There is a strip of poor semi-improved grassland along the western boundary, with occasional {\it Salix} sp. on the boundary. 

*Nationally scarce species are those occurring in between 16 and 100 10 km squares in Britain (D.A. Pearman {\it et al} (1994), 'Scarce Plants in Britain')

MANAGE:
The grassland is cut at least once a year. Grazing may still take place.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blue tit, chiffchaff, house sparrow, robin, woodpigeon, yellowhammer.

VEG:
Only the areas visible from the public and informal footpaths were surveyed. 

The canopy appears to be dominated by {\it Quercus robur} with locally frequent {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Betula pubescens} plus occasional {\it Alnus glutinosa, Carpinus betulus, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Tilia europaea}. There is good regeneration of all these species and a wide age range. The oldest {\it Q. robur} trees have trunk diameters of about 1m at chest height. Fallen deadwood has been left {\it in situ}.

There is an understorey of scattered {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra} with occasional {\it Cornus sanguinea, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Salix cinerea}.

The ground flora is dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with locally frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and dense stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} where the canopy is more open. Along footpaths, there is  frequent {\it Holcus mollis, Circaea lutetiana, Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Urtica dioica} with occasional {\it Carex ovalis, C. remota, C. sylvatica, Corydalis} sp., {\it Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas, Lysimachia nemorum} and {\it Scrophularia nodosa}.

MANAGE:
The area surveyed appears to be closed to livestock. No evidence of recent felling or coppicing was seen. Nest boxes have been installed in the central area of the woodland. 

It would be desirable to continue the practice of leaving deadwood {\it in situ}.


FAUNA:
Yellowhammer, swallow, pheasant, skylark, moorhen, common gull and meadow brown butterfly were recorded during the site visit. The following is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

"The abundance of water plants supports a diverse assemblage of invertebrate species including the locally rare water-beetle {\it Illybius subaeneus}. The ponds are also breeding sites for the Great Crested Newt."

Breeding birds listed in the 1983 Phase 1 survey include Snipe, Lapwing, Sedge Warbler and Mallard. Fish were seen in the pond at TM225923 in 1983.

VEG:
Only a brief site survey was carried out. The grassland to the north-west was described as a mixture of {\it Holcus lanatus, Bromus hordaceous} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with scattered {\it Deschampsia cespitosa?}. {\it Alopecurus pratensis} was locally abundant. Other species recorded were frequent {\it Ranunculus acris}, locally frequent {\it Stellaria graminea, Lathyrus pratensis} and {\it Cynosurus cristatus} and occasional {\it Agrostis canina}. Part is used as a cricket pitch. 

There are a number of ponds on the common supporting {\it Eleocharis palustris, Glyceria maxima, G. fluitans, Galium} sp., {\it Potamogeton natans, Alisma plantago-aquatica, Ranunculus} sp. (water crowfoot), {\it Hippurus vulgaris?, Oenanthe fistulosa, Myosotis aquatica} and {\it M. scorpioides}. The nationally scarce* {\it Stratiotes aloides} was recorded in the pond at TM225921. The pond immediately west of Fritton Hall was overgrown with {\it Phragmites australis}. Two of the ponds were heavily overshadowed by trees (TM222921 and TM226925). The pond at TM222920 was full of algae. The area of the common to the north of the SSSI was mapped as supporting amenity and unimproved? neutral grassland. The southern end of the common was mapped as supporting unimproved neutral and acid grassland at the time of the Phase 1 survey in 1983. A number of scattered {\it Quercus robur} were recorded here in 1997.

Patches of acid grassland were recorded with {\it Nardus stricta, Agrostis} sp., {\it Potentilla erecta} and {\it Galium saxatile}.

Small areas of woodland supported canopy species {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula} with good regeneration, especially of {\it A. pseudoplatanus}. There was occasional {\it Tilia} sp. Most trees have a trunk diameter of 30cm ACH. A fine, very old {\it Quercus robur} was noted. {\it Crataegus monogyna} was present in the understorey. The ground flora comprises {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with {\it Geranium robertianum, Dactylis glomerata, Silene dioica} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}. There is a pond within woodland near the western edge of the common with 'murky' water fringed with {\it Juncus effusus}.

There is a tall overgrown hedgerow along the eastern boundary of the common with {\it Acer campestre, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} trees and dense {\it Prunus spinosa, Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Rosa} sp. Additional species recorded here in 1983 were {\it Carpinus betulus, Acer pseudoplatanus, Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Malus sylvestris}. Several ancient pollards of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} were noted and {\it Mercurialis perennis} was abundant under the hedge. There are also scattered {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees on the common. 

The following information is extracted from the Site Management Statement (1996):

Damp acidic grassland covers much of the site and is characterised by grasses such as {\it Agrostis capillaris, Nardus stricta} and {\it Danthonia decumbens} together with herbs such as {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Potentilla erecta}. The wetter areas on lower lying ground with impeded drainage are characterised by abundant {\it Juncus effusus, Pulicaria dysenterica} and {\it Carex hirta}. The site is the largest remaining area of damp acid grassland in east Norfolk, making it locally important. 

Where chalk fragments occur in the soil, at the south end of the site, neutral grassland occurs, dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} with associated herbs including {\it Primula veris, Galium verum} and {\it Orchis morio}. 

Together with the grassland, the other most important conservation interest of the site is the diverse series of ponds. These, because of the management of the surrounding area by traditional grazing and mowing, have remained free of pollution by nitrates and phosphates and consequently have a well developed waterside vegetation including species such as {\it Sparganium erectum, Eleocharis palustris, Oenanthe fistulosa} and {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris}. This vegetation is often zoned with an outer circle of {\it Mentha aquatica, Myosotis laxa, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Ranunculus flammula} and {\it Cardamine pratensis}. The deeper ponds with permanent water contain a variety of water plants. {\it Potamogeton natans} is generally dominant with {\it Ranunculus peltatus, Chara} sp. and {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica} also present.

The mature Oak and Ash trees and the younger woodland associated with them support 40 species of lichen, including a locally rare {\it Xanthorion} sp. and {\it Anaptychia ciliaris} which has become more scarce due to its intolerance of modern fertilisers.

In 1996 three of the deeper ponds were dominated by {\it Stratiotes aloides}, which is nationally scarce* but was probably accidentally introduced to this site a few years ago. 

Additional species recorded in the unimproved acid grassland during the Phase 1 survey, 1983 were {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Achillea millefolium, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Ulex europaeus, Luzula campestris, Rumex acetosa, Stellaria graminea, Trifolium repens} and, presumably in the wetter areas, {\it Potentilla anserina, Cirsium palustre, Juncus acutiflorus} and {\it J. articulatus}. Similarly for the neutral grassland; {\it Dactylis glomerata, Deschampsia cespitosa, Achillea millefolium, Centaurea nigra, Glechoma hederacea, Heracleum sphondylium, Hypericum perforatum, Juncus effusus, Veronica chamaedrys, Anthriscus sylvestris, Stellaria holostea, Fragaria vesca, Lathyrus pratensis, Medicago lupulina, Odontites vernus, Plantago lanceolata, Potentilla reptans, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Trifolium pratense, Vicia sepium, Pimpinella saxifraga, Lotus corniculatus, Cardamine pratense, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Urtica dioica} were also recorded.

12 ponds were recorded on the common in 1983 supporting, in addition to the species listed above, the marginal species {\it Juncus inflexus, Ranunculus repens, Carex nigra, C. hirta, Alopecurus geniculatus, Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum, Scrophularia auriculata, Hydrocotyle vulgaris} and the aquatic species {\it Lemna trisulca, L. minor} and {\it Alisma lanceolatum}. Shallower ponds supported {\it Glyceria fluitans, G. declinata} and {\it G. plicata}. One of the ponds (TM226927) was dominated by {\it Phragmites australis} with no open water (as in 1997) and one was completely overshadowed by trees (TM222921).

MANAGE:
In early August 1992 the majority of the site had been mown, probably over a month earlier, and the cuttings removed as if for a hay crop. This mowing was considered to be possibly rather early and that the mown areas could probably benefit from being 'opened up' by grazing. Around the mown areas, small pockets are unmanaged, probably which are too awkward or tussocky. Part of the site was enclosed with electric fencing and being grazed by 12 cows creating a mosaic of well grazed and less intensely grazed sward heights. One or two short swathes had been mown. The ponds were mostly with water (Site Integrity Monitoring). 

A site visit by English Nature in 1994 revealed that some areas of the common had been under-grazed, leading to these areas becoming invaded by brambles and scrub. The ponds were also becoming overgrown by brambles and in some cases trees are overhanging the water which will lead to nutrient enrichment to the detriment of the aquatic environment. Two ponds (TM225922 and TM225924) had had drains dug from middle road emptying into them again to the detriment of the aquatic environment. The pond within the woodland near the western boundary of the common was being used by domestic waterfowl which had caused puddling and could cause further nutrient enrichment. Middle road had been lined by a row of trees on each side, the east side approximately 10 years ago and the west side within the last 2 years. The water of the pond at TM223923 was turbid and poached by cattle at the time of the 1983 Phase 1 survey. 

According to the Site Management Statement (SMS) "Fritton Common" is one of only a few large grassy commons remaining in South Norfolk under traditional management (until recently by light cattle grazing). Part of the common (in the north east) is used as a cricket pitch. English Nature's objectives are to maintain the high botanical interest of the grassland areas; maintain the water levels and quality of the ponds by avoiding enrichment or fouling of the water; expand the area of grassland where this has become invaded by scrub and bramble; maintain the existing areas of mature oak and ash woodland and scattered mature trees for their conservation value, especially their lichens. Agreed management actions in the Site Management Statement are as follows:

Grassland Areas:

To maintain the wide range of plants in the grassland, it is vital to continue with a suitable regime of grazing and mowing over the Common. Fritton Common is grazed by sheep during the mid and late summer. A hay cut is taken from the northern part of the Common when possible. This should be left late enough in the summer for the plants to set their seed and be followed by aftermath grazing. The intensity of grazing will be reviewed occasionally by the landowners and English Nature to ensure that the rare plants are thriving.

No chemical fertilizers or herbicides are used on the Common. This is very important to maintain the grassland and to protect the ponds and the lichens growing on the trees from pollution.

The north eastern part of the Common is used as a cricket pitch and managed by regular mowing through the summer. The small area of grassland to the north of the cricket pitch should be swiped, with the cut material removed, if it is not grazed or mown.

Grassland areas which have become invaded by scrub and bramble:

The scrub will be cleared, with the cut material removed from the site. Annual mowing or grazing should prevent the re-establishment of scrub. The area to the east of the woodland around the pond at (TM222921) will be left ungrazed and unmown, but every 3 or 4 years any invading scrub will be cleared and stumps treated to prevent regrowth. The existing area of gorse may need cutting to prevent it expanding.

The Ponds:

Removing the overhanging branches from the ponds prevents the water plants being shaded and reduces the rate at which fallen leaves build up in the ponds.

Scrub is encroaching on some of the vegetation at the pond edges. This scrub should be removed. The priority ponds for this treatment are TM225921 and TM223923.

Drains were dug from the Middle Road which empty into ponds at TM225922 and TM225924. These drains should be re-sited so that they do not carry pollution into the ponds (English Nature to pursue this with the Highways Authority).

Three ponds to the East of Middle Road have become dominated by {\it Stratiotes aloides}. This was removed from one pond in 1996 as an experiment to see whether the previous water plant community recovers (TM225921). If not, then the other two ponds will be left, as {\it S. aloides} is of value to wildlife.

Waterfowl have used pond TM222921 for many years. Their numbers should not increase, as they may affect pond water quality.

Pond TM222921 also has gradually filled up with leaves and other debris and is now (1996) very shallow. Some of the ponds at Fritton Common will be cleared out over the next few years, with the details of work agreed in advance with English Nature. The woodland to the south and east of this pond has been heavily thinned. If ponds are cleared out, this must be done with care as some if not all, are probably clay lined. Insensitive work could break through the clay layer.

Mature oak and ash woodland and scattered trees:

Clearing the bramble from the woodland understorey will prevent it shading out the more interesting ground layer plants. The cut bramble will be removed from the site.

An avenue of trees was planted along Middle Road for part of the length of Fritton Common about fifteen years ago. If individual trees among these die, it is suggested that they are not replaced so that, in the long term, there will be scattered trees rather than dense rows which would shade out the grassland beneath them. Further planting on the open grassland will be avoided. 

No management observations were made during the site visit. An area of the SSSI was mapped as amenity grassland in 1997 (presumably the cricket pitch). This is not referred to in the SMS and may be an indication that the presumably regular mowing of this area could be detrimental to the grassland community. However, this habitat could have been mis-classified due to it having been recently mown and therefore difficult to assess.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, house sparrow, magpie, woodpigeon, swallow, yellowhammer.

VEG:
The grassland had been cut recently at the time of survey and the cuttings removed; it is possible that some species have been under-recorded.

The sward appears to be a mixture of {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Lolium perenne} with abundant {\it Achillea millefolium} plus locally frequent {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Trifolium repens}.

There is a line of mature standard {\it Quercus robur} trees along the road.

The hedge running along the eastern boundary is up to 4m high and wide. It is dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} with occasional young {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Sambucus nigra}.

MANAGE:
The grass had probably been cut for silage. Grazing may take place in the late summer or overwinter.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, swallow, yellowhammer.

VEG:
The common was viewed from the road only, using binoculars. Within 30m of  the road, the sward appears to be a mixture of {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Lolium perenne} with occasional {\it Rumex obtusifolius} and {\it Urtica dioica}. There is a strip of rank {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium} along the NW boundary.

Within 3m of the road, the drain along the NW side of the common contains abundant {\it Potamogeton natans} with occasional {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica}. There are dense stands of {\it Glyceria maxima} and {\it Phragmites australis} along the banks with occasional {\it Juncus effusus}.   

Along the roadside boundary, there are mature {\it Salix alba} pollards. Along the SE boundary, there are mature and young {\it Quercus robur} trees with frequent {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Salix} sp.

MANAGE:
The grassland was rank at the time of survey but it likely to be subject to grazing and/or cut at some time during the year.


VEG:
This common comprises a length of track bordered to the west by a double hedgerow along a ditch dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} with frequent {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Rosa} sp. and occasional {\it Salix} sp. (up to 5m wide and 5m high). On the eastern side there is a discontinuous hedgerow with {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Acer campestre} and {\it Rosa canina} (up to 5m high and 3m wide).

{\it Lolium perenne} is dominant along the track, bordered by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Urtica dioica, Heracleum sphondylium, Holcus lanatus, Dactylis glomerata} and locally frequent {\it Anisantha sterilis}.

At the southern end there is area of {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. scrub.

MANAGE:
Some cutting of {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Prunus spinosa} is required to maintain the footpath.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, swallow, woodpigeon, yellowhammer.

VEG:
Areas of rank semi-improved neutral grassland are dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne, Anthriscus sylvestris, Centaurea nigra, Convolvulus arvensis, Glechoma hederacea, Lathyrus pratensis, Ranunculus repens, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Trifolium dubium} and {\it T. pratense} plus occasional {\it Agrimonia eupatoria, Galium verum, Silaum silaus, Tragopogon pratensis} and {\it Vicia cracca}. Sward height is in the range 20 to 60cm.

The sward is generally shorter (10 to 30cm) in the small area recorded as semi-improved calcareous grassland and dominated by {\it Alopecurus pratensis} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with frequent {\it Agrimonia eupatoria, Galium verum, Primula veris} and the nationally scarce* {\it Trifolium ochroleucon} plus occasional {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum} and {\it Viola} sp. 

On the north side of the road, there are small areas of broadleaved woodland dominated by {\it Fraxinus excelsior} of various ages with occasional {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Tilia} sp. Small sections of verge in the eastern half of the common have been planted with {\it Acer campestre, Quercus robur} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} saplings; also in this area, there is a line of mature standard {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} on the north side of the road.

Patches of tall ruderal vegetation on both sides of the road are dominated by {\it Cirsium arvense} or {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Alliaria petiolata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Galium aparine, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Torilis japonica}. 

Discontinuous hedgerows on both sides of the road are mostly dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with frequent {\it Rosa} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. They are generally 2 to 4m high and wide.

*Nationally scarce species are those occurring in between 16 and 100 10 km squares in Britain (D.A. Pearman {\it et al} (1994), 'Scarce Plants in Britain')

MANAGE:
Parts of the grass verges are probably cut once a year, as are some sections of hedgerow. Some tree planting has been carried out in the eastern half of the common.


VEG:
The common supports rank {\it Arrhenatherum elatius/Holcus lanatus/Poa} sp. grassland with frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata} on the northern side. On the southern side there is frequent {\it Trifolium pratensis, Ranunculus acris, Alopecurus pratensis}, locally abundant {\it Achillea millefolium, Ranunculus repens}, locally frequent {\it Rumex acetosa} and occasional {\it Arctium} sp. 

The hedgerows comprise {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with occasional {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Euonymus europaeus}.

MANAGE:
No observations on management were made. The rankness of the grassland but lack of scrub suggests that it is cut periodically.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: black headed gull, common tern, house sparrow, skylark. Areas of longer grass in the dunes in the southern half of the common contain numerous grasshoppers.

VEG:
The beach is bounded on its western side by a sea wall, which is between 0.5 and 3m high above the western edge of the beach. Beyond the wall, there are caravan sites, a golf course and residential areas.

On the highest part of the beach, there is occasional, scattered {\it Ammophila arenaria, Carex arenaria, Leymus arenarius, Elytrigia juncea, E. atherica, Cakile maritima, Calystegia soldanella, Diplotaxis tenuifolia, Eryngium maritimum, Honckenya peploides} and {\it Ononis repens}. 

In the southern half of the common, there are low dunes on the eastern side of the sea wall and all the above species are more frequent. This area appears to be less frequently used by visitors. The most stable areas, along the edge of the wall also contain locally frequent {\it Achillea millefolium, Galium verum, Lotus corniculatus, Plantago lanceolata, Rhinanthus minor, Rumex acetosella} and {\it Sedum} sp., plus occasional {\it Tragopogon pratensis} and {\it Tussilago farfara}.

MANAGE:
The beach is used frequently by local people and tourists. There once may have been extensive dunes along this section of the coast before the spread of residential and other developments and construction of the sea wall. In places, the railing along the top of the wall is partially buried, showing that localized sand accretion is still in progress.

It would be desirable not to disturb the remaining or recently developed areas of low dune in the southern half of the common. In addition to being of value to wildlife, they also provide an obstruction to tidal inundation.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, house sparrow, woodpigeon.

VEG:
The broadleaved woodland occupies most of the area of the common. It is dominated by mature standard {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} with occasional {\it Fagus sylvatica}. There is good regeneration of {\it A. pseudoplatanus} and {\it F. excelsior} (abundant saplings). There is an understorey of scattered {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra} with occasional {\it Ilex aquifolium}. 

The ground flora is dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with locally abundant {\it Galium aparine, Mercurialis perennis, Ranunculus repens, Rumex sanguineus} and {\it Urtica dioica}. In the vicinity of the informal footpaths, there is frequent {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum, Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Stachys sylvatica} plus occasional {\it Carex sylvatica} and {\it Dryopteris filix-mas}. No standing water was seen in the pond in the central area of the woodland (viewed through binoculars only). It is shaded by surrounding trees and appears to contain dense stands of {\it Carex} sp. (probably {\it C. rostrata}) with frequent {\it Rorippa} sp. (looks like {\it R. nasturtium-aquaticum}), fringed with dense stands of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Urtica dioica} on the banks.

The small area of semi-improved neutral grassland in the SE corner of the common is dominated by rank {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata} with frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Deschampsia cespitosa, Aegopodium podagraria, Anthriscus sylvestris, Potentilla reptans, Vicia cracca} and {\it V. sativa}, plus occasional {\it Agrimonia eupatoria} and {\it Geranium pratense}. The pond situated in the middle of this grassland contains abundant {\it Ranunculus} sp. (water crowfoot) with occasional {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica}. It is fringed with frequent {\it Juncus acutiflorus, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Veronica beccabunga}, plus occasional {\it Ranunculus sceleratus}.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent felling or coppicing was seen. It would be beneficial to wildlfe to leave standing and fallen deadwood {\it in situ}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, chiffchaff, woodpigeon.

VEG:
Along the NW facing boundary, there is a discontinuous {\it Crataegus monogyna/Prunus spinosa} hedge (up to 3m high and wide) with mature standard {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} trees. The hedge along the southern boundary is similar, but it is trimmed and also contains {\it Rosa} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with occasional {\it Ilex aquifolium} and coppiced {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. The hedge is absent along the southern boundary of the arable field, but there are mature standard {\it Quercus robur} trees suggesting a hedge once may have been there. 

On the eastern side of the railway track, there is a small arable field fringed with {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna} and coppiced {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} (3 to 5m high) along the railway track. Under the canopy, the ground flora contains abundant {\it Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}. There are occasional {\it Q. robur} trees along the track on the eastern side of the field.

MANAGE:
The land is used for arable agriculture and livestock grazing. 2 horses were seen in the western-most field. The hedgerow along the southern boundary is trimmed at least once a year. It would be desirable to extend this along the southern edge of the arable fields if possible.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, house sparrow, starling, swallow, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Several orange tip, peacock, small copper and small tortoishell butterflies were seen and (in the marshy grassland and swamp areas) several Azure damselflies ({\it Coenagrion puella}), red damselflies (species not determined) and 1 common frog. Areas of long grass around scrub and tall ruderal vegetation contain numerous grasshoppers.

There is evidence of rabbit grazing in the southern half of the common.

VEG:
The following 3 paragraphs refer to the part of the common north of the 6m spot height at TG256161.

A belt of mature {\it Alnus glutinosa} dominated woodland with scattered {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Quercus robur} runs along the stream on the NW boundary of this part of common. To the east of this, there is a mosaic of marshy grassland, swamp, tall ruderal vegetation and scrub.  

The marshy grassland is dominated by dense {\it Filipendula ulmaria}. Within this, there are scattered patches (too small to map) of {\it Juncus articulatus} on saturated ground with frequent {\it Carex hirta, Angelica sylvestris, Caltha palustris, Equisetum palustre, Galium palustre, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Lotus pedunculatus, Mentha aquatica, Menyanthes trifoliata, Potentilla palustris} and {\it Ranunculus repens} plus occasional {\it Apium nodiflorum} and {\it Oenanthe fistulosa}. On drier ground, there are patches of {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with frequent {\it Agrostis} sp., {\it Achillea millefolium, Potentilla reptans} and {\it Succisa pratensis} plus occasional {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Rhinanthus minor} and {\it Viola hirta}. 

Towards the stream and belt of {\it Alnus glutinosa} dominated woodland, the marshy grassland grades into swamp dominated by {\it Glyceria maxima} with patches of {\it Phragmites australis} and occasional {\it Carex} sp. Along the edge of the woodland, there is a discontinuous belt of {\it Salix cinerea}. The swamp vegetation continues under the canopy. In the opposite direction, to the east, the marshy grassland grades into tall ruderal vegetation dominated by {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Cirsium arvense, Epilobium hirsutum, Galeopsis tetrahit, Galium aparine} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium} plus occasional {\it Armoracia rusticana} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Along the road and public footpath, there are patches of dense {\it Prunus spinosa} dominated scrub with frequent {\it Crataegus monogyna, Humulus lupulus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. plus occasional {\it Frangula alnus} and {\it Ulmus} sp. (saplings). Along the public footpath (ie. along the SW facing boundary of this part of the common) there is a ground flora of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with frequent {\it Corydalis} sp. and {\it Urtica dioica} plus occasional {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Viola hirta}.

South of the 6m spot height, there is a mosaic of dense and scattered scrub, dense bracken, tall ruderal vegetation and scattered trees with small, peripheral areas of broadleaved woodland. The tall ruderal vegetation and scrub is similar in composition to that described above. The scattered trees are mostly young {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur} with occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. Outside the Village Hall at TG257158    there is a small area of semi-improved neutral grassland dominated by {\it Alopecurus pratensis} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} with abundant {\it Achillea millefolium} plus frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Centaurea nigra, Galium verum, Ranunculus repens, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Vicia sativa}.

The peripheral areas of broadleaved woodland are dominated by {\it Quercus robur}. At TG255158 (just south of the Old Rectory) there is a small area of old coppiced {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent management activity was seen. The appearance of the common suggests that the right to graze cattle is no longer exercised. The mosaic of habitats will be attractive to a range of birds, small mammals and amphibians in a predominantly open, arable landscape. Some control of the spread of scrub and trees may be required in the long term if the existing open areas are to be retained.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, house sparrow, robin, woodpigeon. Several large white and small tortoiseshell butterflies seen, also, in the western half, numerous ladybirds. There is evidence of rabbit grazing on the grassland in the eastern half.

VEG:
The western half of the common contains dense scrub interspersed with patches of tall herb vegetation and dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, both with scattered scrub and saplings.

The scrub is dominated by {\it Prunus spinosa} with frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ribes} sp., {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ulex europaeus}. Areas of tall herb vegetation grade into patches of dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. They are dominated by {\it Chamerion angustifolium} with frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, Holcus lanatus, H. mollis, Festuca} sp., {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Conopodium majus, Galium aparine, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Stellaria holostea} plus occasional {\it Juncus effusus, Heracleum sphondylium, Hypochaeris radicata, Rumex acetosella} and {\it Narcissus} sp. (cultivated). There are also scattered {\it Betula pendula, Malus} sp., {\it Populus} sp., {\it Prunus avium} and {\it Tilia} sp. saplings. The {\it Tilia} saplings may have been planted.

The eastern half of the common contains grassland and is much more open in character. The sward is up to 10cm high and mostly dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} with locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Poa} spp., {\it Achillea millefolium, Centaurea nigra, Rumex acetosa, R. crispus} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys} plus occasional {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Armoracia rusticana, Galium verum, Geranium} sp., {\it Hypochaeris radicata, Lamium purpureum, Potentilla anserina, Tanacetum vulgare} and {\it Vicia cracca}. This {\it Holcus lanatus} dominated sward is interspesed with patches (too small to map) of more acidic grassland dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca} sp. with frequent {\it Rumex acetosella} and occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris} (carpet form, less than 3cm high).

There are scattered, semi-matural standard {\it Quercus robur} trees in this half of the common, with occasional {\it Fagus sylvatica} saplings which appear to have been planted. Along the road on the eastern boundary, there is occasional {\it Symphytum x uplandicum}.

MANAGE:
It is not clear if there are any tenant graziers; livestock would largely be restricted to the eastern half of the common because of the extent of scrub and bracken in the remaining area. Some of the saplings on the common appear to have been planted.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, house sparrow, great tit, woodpigeon, yellowhammer.

VEG:
Only a limited field survey was carried out.

The central area of the common contains extensive areas of {\it Ulex europaeus} dominated scrub with frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. This is interspersed with patches of dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and acid grassland (dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris}) with scattered scrub and {\it Betula pendula} and {\it B. pubescens} saplings. There are also areas of mature dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} with locally frequent {\it Erica cinerea}. On lower ground, these grade into wet heath with locally frequent {\it Molinia caerulea, Carex panicea, Erica tetralix} and {\it Sphagnum} spp.

Around the edge of the area described above (along the inside of the CL boundary), there is a belt of broadleaved woodland which in the drier areas is dominated by {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur} with frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and occasional {\it Populus tremula} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. On wetter ground along the southern boundary (which runs along the length of a shallow valley), the woodland is dominated by {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Betula pendula}. Some of the {\it A. glutinosa} is old coppice. There is an understorey of scattered {\it Salix cinerea}. Where the ground is saturated, there are stands of {\it Carex acutiformis, Phragmites australis} and {\it Iris pseudacorus} with frequent {\it Solanum dulcamara}. On slightly drier ground elsewhwere, there is frequent {\it Carex remota, Caltha palustris, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Dryopteris dilatata, Filipendula ulmaria, Galium aparine, Mentha aquatica, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Valeriana dioica}, plus occasional {\it Cirsium palustre, Dryopteris filix-mas, Geranium robertianum, Parnassia palustris} and {\it Silene dioica}.       

No further survey was carried out. The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

"Dry heathland covers much of the site and includes areas dominated by Bracken ({\it Pteridium aquilinum}) and Gorse ({\it Ulex europaeus}) and small patches of grass heath with common bent-grass ({\it Agrostis capillaris}), Sheeps's sorrel ({\it Rumex acetosella}), Wood sage ({\it Teucrium scorodonia}) and Tormentil ({\it Potentilla erecta}). Atlantic coastal heath, which occurs as isolated fragments in East Angla, is also present. Heather ({\it Calluna vulgaris}) is dominant with frequent Bell heather ({\it Erica cinerea}) and Western Gorse ({\it Ulex gallii}).

There is a gradation from dry to wet heathland at the top of the sloping ground. Cross-leaved heath ({\it Erica tetralix}) and Purple moor-grass ({\it Molinia caerulea}) are dominant with other characteristic species such as Common cotton grass ({\it Eriophorum angustifolium}), Heath rush ({\it Juncus squarrosus}), Many-stemmed spike-rush ({\it Eleocharis multicaulis}) and Pill-headed sedge ({\it Carex pilulifera}). The acidic flushes are dominated by and abundance of bog mosses ({\it Sphagnum} spp.) with round leaved sundew ({\it Drosera rotundifolia}), Marsh violet ({\it Viola palustris}), Bogbean ({\it Menyanthes trifoliata}) and Marsh pennywort ({\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris}). Bog pondweed ({\it Potamogeton polygonifolius}) is locally abundant along seepage lines.

Calcareous springs emerge lower down the slope and small areas of fen have developed in the valley-bottom. Reed ({\it Phragmites australis}), Blunt-flowered rush ({\it Juncus subnodulosus}) and Meadowsweet ({\it Filipendula ulmaria}) are dominant and other notable species include Grass of Parnassus ({\it Parnassia palustris}), Lesser spearwort ({\it Ranunculus flammula}), Ragged robin ({\it Lychnis flos-cuculi}) and Common spotted orchid ({\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii}).

Much of the valley bottom is reverting from to carr wodland dominated by Alder ({\it Alnus glutinosa}) and Sallow ({\it Salix cinerea}) with a ground flora that includes Yellow flag ({\it Iris pseudacorus}), Marsh marigold ({\it Caltha palustris}), Water mint ({\it Mentha aquatica}) and Remote sedge ({\it Carex remota}).

A number of uncommon mosses and lichens have been recorded from the wetter parts of the site."

{\it Racomitrium lanuginosum} and {\it Cladonia strepsilis} are listed in the English Nature Site Summary.

MANAGE:
Scattered areas of gorse have been burnt within the last year in the western half of the common. No egeneration was seen. In the English Nature Site Summary, the following Nature Conservation Objectives are listed: (1) Maintain and restore dry heathland habitat. (2) Maintain and restore wet heathland habitat. (3) Clear some areas of valley floor to re-establish some mesotrophic - calcareous fen.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, chiffchaff, cuckoo, house sparrow, mallard, moorhen, partridge, yellowhammer.
The following were also noted: grey squirrel, large white butterfly, common blue damselfly.

VEG:
The largest pit in the eastern half of the commom is used for fishing. It is fringed with frequent {\it Mentha aquatica} and {\it Veronica beccabunga}, plus occasional stands of {\it Typha latifolia} and frequent, overhanging {\it Salix} sp. The surrounding land supports dense bracken and tall herb vegetation ({\it Epilobium hirsutum, Urtica dioica}) with scattered scrub ({\it Salix sp., Crataegus monogyna}). Small areas of disturbed ground support {\it Lactuca serriola, Senecio jacobaea} and {\it Viola arvensis}. 

The smaller pit to the east is surrounded by overhanging {\it Alnus glutinosa, Salix fragilis} and {\it Salix} sp. There are scattered stands of {\it Typha latifolia} at the southern end. On the bank, there is a groundflora of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Silene dioica} and {\it Urtica dioica}.

The remaining woodland in the western half of the common is a mixture of {\it Betula pubescens, B. pendula} and {\it Quercus robur} with an understorey of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra} with occasional {\it Humulus lupulus} and {\it Rosa} sp. The youngest woodland is at western end. Also in this area, there are patches of tall herb vegetation ({\it Chamerion angustifolium/Urtica dioica}) with frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Glechoma hederacea, Lamium album} and {\it Rumex obtusifolius} plus occasional {\it Arctium} sp, {\it Conium maculatum, Geranium dissectum, Silene dioica} and {\it S. vulgaris}. A recently created area of bare ground joins an access track which looks as if it is used by heavy vehicles (eg. gravel trucks).

MANAGE:
The common appears to be ungrazed. No ongoing management apparent.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, house sparrow, yellowhammer.

VEG:
The northernmost section contains {\it Alnus glutinosa} dominated woodland with an understorey of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Salix} sp., which extends beyond the edge of the canopy. Ground flora species recorded include abundant {\it Ranunculus ficaria} with frequent {\it Hedera helix, Silene dioica} and {\it Urtica dioica}. The woodland is fringed with patches of tall herb vegetation dominated by {\it Urtica dioica} with abundant {\it Galium aparine} and {\it Silene dioica} plus frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Galeopsis tetrahit} and {\it Ranunculus ficaria}. Scattered wet depressions contain stands of {\it Iris pseudacorus} with frequent {\it Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Pulicaria dysenterica}.

The central section contains forb vegetation dominated by {\it Filipendula ulmaria} (recorded as B5 on the survey map) with locally abundant {\it Valeriana dioica} plus locally frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Angelica sylvestris, Cardamine pratensis, Centaurea nigra, Cirsium palustre, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Mentha aquatica, Menyanthes trifoliata, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Silene dioica} plus occasional {\it Caltha palustris, Cardamine flexuosa, Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Pulicaria dysenterica}. This is fringed on the eastern side with dense scrub dominated by {\it Prunus spinosa} with scattered {\it Betula pendula} saplings. Under the canopy, there is a ground flora of {\it Glechoma hederacea, Geum urbanum, Mercurialis perennis, Ranunculus ficaria} and {\it Stachys sylvatica} plus occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium}. 

The southernmost section is dominated by coppiced and standard {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} with an understorey of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra} with occasional {\it Corylus avellana, Lonicera periclymenum, Prunus spinosa, Ribes} sp. and {\it Viburnum opulus}. There is a ground flora of scattered {\it Dryopteris dilatata, Geum urbanum, Hedera helix, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Mercurialis perennis} and {\it Silene dioica. Alliaria petiolata} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris} are abundant within 3m of the road side.

MANAGE:
The northern and southernmost sections appear to be ungrazed. The small area of dense scrub in the central section is not spreading. This suggests that the forb vegetation is cut or grazed at least once a year.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, coot, mallard.

VEG:
The common was viewed from the road using binoculars.

The swamp is dominated by dense {\it Glyceria maxima} with scattered {\it Cirsium palustre} and {\it Phalaris arundinacea} plus occasional {\it Carex} sp.. Along the road, there are stands of {\it Anthriscus sylvestris} with frequent {\it Galium aparine, Lamium album} and {\it Urtica dioica} plus occasional {\it Conium maculatum} and {\it Rumex} sp. 

Near the road, the river contains {\it Callitriche} sp. and is fringed with frequent {\it Apium nodiflorum} and {\it Myosotis scorpioides} plus occasional {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica, Epilobium hirsutum, Mentha} sp. and {\it Phalaris arundinacea}. {\it Kniphofia} sp. have been planted where the river borders amenity grassland near the road.

An embankment has been constructed along most of the length of the river where it borders the common. It is covered with dense {\it Urtica dioica} with occasional {\it Salix} sp.

To the north of the swamp is a grazed/mown area dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} with numerous scattered shoots of {\it G. maxima}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, chiffchaff, house sparrow, magpie, song thrush, yellowhammer. Several rabbits and orange tip and small tortoiseshell butterflies seen.

VEG:
The acid grassland is dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} and {\it Festuca ovina} with abundant {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Rumex acetosella} plus frequent {\it Teucrium scorodonia, Erica cinerea, Potentilla erecta, Hypericum} sp.{\it Polygala serpyllifolia, Pseudoscleropodium purum, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} and occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum} (less than 5cm high) and {\it Calluna vulgaris} (carpet form). There are peripheral stands of dense bracken along the CL boundary, also scattered scrub and trees. The scrub is a mixture of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus}. The trees are mostly young {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Quercus robur}, although there are a few mature standard {\it Q. robur} trees in the eastern half of the common, where there is also a very old {\it Malus} sp. tree.  

At the eastern end of the common, there is a small area of more neutral grassland dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} with frequent {\it Bellis perennis, Erodium cicutarium, Glechoma hederacea, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Lamium album} and {\it Plantago coronopus}.

Along the NW boundary of the common, there is a discontinuous scrubby hedgerow of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Sambucus nigra} with a ground flora of locally abundant {\it Lamium album, Mercurialis perennis} and {\it Silene dioica} plus occasional {\it Chelidonium majus} and {\it Stellaria holostea}.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent livestock grazing was seen, but the common appears to have been subject to heavy grazing pressure. There may be seasonal livestock grazing, but it appears that rabbits make a major contribution to the level of grazing on the common. 

The presence of occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris} suggests that the common may once have supported dry heath. The remaining {\it C. vulgaris} is too scattered to allow any short term regeneration of dry heath following reduction of grazing pressure.

In the past the {\it P. aquilinum} has been sprayed and scrub encroachment checked. Motorcycle scrambling has been an issue on this common.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, blue tit, chiffchaff, house sparrow, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Several peacock butterflies were seen. According to the information board, common frog, great spotted woodpecker and grey wagtail are also present. Although none were seen at the time of survey, breeding dragonflies and damselflies may use the wetland area and lodge.

VEG:
The most floristically diverse area of the common is the spring fed area in the central part of the common. Below the springs there is a lawn of bryophytes with frequent {\it Carex hirta, C. nigra, C. panicea, Holcus lanatus, Juncus articulatus, Caltha palustris, Centaurea nigra, Equisetum arvense, E. palustre, Lotus pedunculatus, Cardamine pratensis, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Pedicularis sylvatica} plus occasional {\it Listera ovata, Fritillaria} sp. (could be {\it F. meleagris} or a cultivated variety) and {\it Ranunculus ficaria}. 

A stream (0.75 to 2m wide) runs along the valley bottom. Its upper part (within 100m of the SE boundary) contains frequent {\it Potamogeton polygonifolius}; this gives way to abundant {\it Apium nodiflorum} lower downslope. Along the banks, there are discontinuous stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} with frequent {\it Caltha palustris, Cirsium palustre} and {\it Juncus articulatus} plus occasional {\it Eleocharis} sp., {\it Iris pseudacorus, Scrophularia aquatica} and {\it Typha latifolia}. On the southern side of the stream, towards the western end of the valley, there are stands of {\it Phragmites australis} (not very dense) growing through a carpet of {\it Caltha palustris} and {\it Menyanthes trifoliata}. There is frequent {\it Centaurea nigra} and {\it Rhinanthus minor} around the drier edges.

At TG074386, there is a small lodge (ie. reservoir) which contains frequent {\it Rorripa nasturtium-aquaticum} and occasional {\it Typha latifolia}, fringed with dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum}.

This part of the common is listed on the East Anglian Valley Fen Dossier with the following description: "A small area of spring fed fen forming the headwaters of a small tributary of the R. Glaven. It supports open flush communities (cf. {\it Pinguiculo-Caricetum}) in a curious juxtaposition with tall herb {\it Epilobium hirsutum} communities, developed along a spring-line below a bracken covered slope. There are also patches of fen meadow." The {\it Carex dioica-Pinguicula} flush was surveyed in 1989 by W. Fojt, species recorded including: {\it Anagallis tenella, Caltha palustris, Dactylorhiza praetermissa, Equisetum palustre, Eriophorum angustifolium, Mentha aquatica, Menyanthes trifoliata, Ranunculus flammula, Triglochin palustris, Drepanocladus revolvens} and {\it Philonotis calcarea}. Additional species recorded in 1984 include {\it Carex viridula} ssp. {\it oedocarpa, C. nigra, Dactylorhiza traunsteineri} (nationally scarce*), Eleocharis quinqueflora, Juncus articulatus, Bryum pseudotriquetrum, Cratoneuron filicinum} and {\it Riccardia pinguis} (B. Wheeler).

The surrounding habitats are a mosaic of broadleaved woodland, dense scrub, semi-improved grassland and dense bracken. The woodland is mostly dominated by {\it Quercus robur} with frequent {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Betula pendula} and {\it B. pubescens} plus occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. There is good regeneration of all these species.

The woodland adjoining the western boundary contains an understorey of locally dense {\it Prunus spinosa} with scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}. The ground is mostly covered in leaf litter, interspersed with patches of {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Oxalis acetosella} and {\it Ranunculus ficaria} plus scattered {\it Dryopteris dilatata, Geranium robertianum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.; there is also occasional {\it Corydalis} sp., {\it Geranium molle, G. pratense, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Lunaria annua. Alliaria petiolata} is frequent around the edges of the canopy.

Areas of scrub are dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with locally frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus} plus occasional {\it Cytisus scoparius, Ilex aquifolium, Rosa} sp. and {\it Sambucus nigra}. All these species also occur as localized scattered scrub in areas of dense bracken and semi-improved grassland.

The largest area of semi-improved neutral grassland is situated in the southern half of the common (TG074385). The most abundant grass species are {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Festuca} sp., {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Poa} spp. Sward height was in the range 30 to 80cm. Herb species recorded include abundant {\it Achillea millefolium} and {\it Centaurea nigra} with locally frequent {\it Plantago lanceolata, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Vicia hirta} and {\it V. sativa} plus occasional {\it Galium verum, Lotus corniculatus} and {\it Saxifraga granulata}. There are also scattered patches of {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}.   

According to the information board, {\it Triglochin palustris} and marsh orchid (species not defined) are also present.

*Nationally scarce species are those occurring in between 16 and 100 10 km squares in Britain (D.A. Pearman {\it et al} (1994), 'Scarce Plants in Britain')

MANAGE:
The following is reproduced from the information board: "Sheep and horses were grazed on the common until the 1950's. They helped to keep the taller and coarser vegetation in check, thereby allowing the more interesting lower growing and less vigourous plants to thrive.

Nowadays, with livestock more intensively reared, and widespread use of fertilizers and herbicides, flower rich meadows and fens are in decline, making Spout Hills even more special.

Cutting and clearing the annual crop of vegetation to reproduce the effect of grazing animals will help the plant communities to flourish in the wetter areas. Elsewhere, the ever-invading scrub, bracken and bramble will need at least to be held in check and managed to maintain a diversity of woodland and scrub habitats."

The following was noted in 1984 (B. Wheeler): site not obviously managed at the time of visit, but not rank and with good open flush communities, with plenty of water. The patches of tall herb fen around some spring heads is suggestive of some nutrient enrichment, but it is not obvious how this is compatible with the occurrence of adjoining patches of open, low fertility flushes.

Evidence of recent burning of {\it Ulex europaeus} was seen in the southern half of the common.

The present mosaic of woodland, scrub and bracken provides a good area of cover for birds and small mammals.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, chiffchaff, house sparrow, robin. Several large white and small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen.

VEG:
The scrub along the roadsides is dominated by {\it Prunus spinosa} with abundant {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. plus frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Rosa} sp. and {\it Sambucus nigra} and scattered {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Salix} spp. and {\it Ulex europaeus}. There are occasional gaps in the scrub which contain a mixture of {\it Anisantha sterilis, Dactylis glomerata, Poa} spp., {\it Alliaria petiolata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Centaurea nigra, Chamerion angustifolium, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Urtica dioica} with occasional {\it Armoracia rusticana} and {\it Malva sylvestris}.

The large pond shown on the OS map at TG350321 (lying just outside the common boundary) is now dense scrub with small peripheral areas of swamp ({\it Typha latifolia}) and tall herb vegetation ({\it Chamerion angustifolium, Cirsium arvense, Urtica dioica}). The scrub is dominated by {\it Salix} spp. with frequent {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Sambucus nigra} and occasional {\it Bryonia dioica} and {\it Humulus lupulus}. The scrub is so dense that the central area is impenetrable. The ground is covered with a thick layer of leaf litter interspersed with scattered patches of {\it Alliaria petiolata, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Urtica dioica} plus occasional {\it Juncus inflexus, Epilobium hirsutum, Iris} sp. (possibly {\it I. foetidissima}), {\it Stachys sylvatica} and {\it Smyrnium olusatrum}.

MANAGE:
Partly used for arable crop production. No ongoing management apparent in the remaining area.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, house sparrow.

VEG:
The scrub is dominated by {\it Prunus spinosa} with locally dominant {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. plus scattered {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Betula pubescens, Cytisus scoparius} and {\it Quercus robur}. This grades into {\it Alnus glutinosa/Quercus robur} woodland in the western quarter of the common.

The ground is covered in leaf litter but interspersed with frequent scattered {\it Holcus mollis, Ceratocapnos claviculata, Dryopteris dilatata, Lonicera periclymenum, Rubus fruticosus} agg. plus occasional {\it Phragmites australis} which appears to have spread from the bank of the drain along the western boundary which supports dense stands of this species.


VEG:
This common forms an additional part of Crostwight Heath (see also CL4). The northern part of this common supports continuous scrub with scattered broadleaved trees, grading into semi-natural broadleaved woodland towards the common boundary. The southern part supports semi-natural broadleaved woodland. The two commons comprising Crostwight Heath were surveyed as one unit. The following information of relevance to the habitats on this common relates to the whole of Crostwight Heath. 

The dense scrub is dominated by {\it Ulex europaeus} (up to 4m high) with locally frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and scattered {\it Betula} sp. 

The woodland is dominated by {\it Betula} sp.; {\it Quercus robur} is locally co-dominant. A few {\it Q. robur} trees in the southern half of the common are very old, with trunk diameters of about 1m at chest height. There is also occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. The understorey is composed of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ulex europaeus} with occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. The ground flora is mostly dominated by dense {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., with locally frequent {\it Holcus mollis, Ceratocapnos claviculata, Glechoma hederacea, Silene dioica, Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, plus occasional {\it Juncus effusus, Arum maculatum, Chamerion angustifolium, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Stellaria holostea}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, house sparrow, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Several common blue and small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen. 

The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

"...Other habitats present on the site include deciduous woodland, neutral grassland and small ponds. This wide range of wet and dry habitats supports several reptiles and amphibians such as Adder, Common lizard, Slow worm, Great crested newt and Smooth newt. Among the more interesting species of breeding bird are Snipe, Grasshopper warbler, Garden warbler, Lesser whitethroat and Redpoll."

VEG:
Only a very limited survey of the northern quarter of the common was carried out. A large part of this area appears to be occupied by dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Salix cinerea} with occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Tamus communis} and scattered young {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. Within 80m of the boundary with CL35, there are areas of wet ground in shallow small valleys, with abundant {\it Schoenus nigricans} and {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris} plus frequent {\it Carex flacca, C. hirta, C. lepidocarpa, C. panicea, Juncus articulatus, J. inflexus, Angelica sylvestris, Cardamine pratensis, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, D. praetermissa, Equisetum palustre, Listera ovata, Lotus pedunculatus, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Pedicularis sylvatica, Menyanthes trifoliata} and {\it Valeriana dioica} plus occasional {\it Briza media, Caltha palustris, Cirsium palustre} and {\it Scrophularia aquatica}. Tall swamp vegetation ({\it Phragmites australis}) is locally dominant. The gently sloping sides of these shallow valleys support {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum} with frequent {\it Eupatorium cannabinum} and {\it Urtica dioica} plus occasional {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}. This habitat frequently grades into surrounding {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

No further survey was carried out. The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

"Calcareous mire communities have developed along the drainage lines of springs that emerge from underlying chalk. Here Blunt-flowered rush ({\it Juncus subnodulosus}) and Bog-rush ({\it Schoenus nigricans}) are dominant but a variety of other sedges including Long-stalked yellow sedge ({\it Carex viridula} ssp. {\it brachyrrhyncha}), Flea sedge ({\it Carex pulicaris}) and Glaucous sedge ({\it Carex flacca}) also occur. These diverse areas of low-growing vegetation on a moss carpet are notable for many uncommon species such as butterwort ({\it Pinguicula vulgaris}), Bog pimpernel ({\it Anagallis tenella}), Great sundew ({\it Drosera anglica}), Grass of Parnassus ({\it Parnassia palustris}), Southern marsh orchid ({\it Dactylorhiza praetermissa}), Marsh helleborine ({\it Epipactis palustris}) and Fragrant orchid ({\it Gymnadenia conopsea}).

Wet acidic heathland surrounds the calcareous mires and is characterised by Soft Rush ({\it Juncus effusus}), Jointed rush ({\it J. articulatus}), Purple moor-grass ({\it Molinia caerulea}), Quaking grass ({\it Briza media}) and Bog mosses ({\it Sphagnum} spp.). Also present are areas of tall fen vegetation on very wet ground with impeded drainage where Common reed ({\it Phragmites australis}) is dominant but Common sallow ({\it Salix cinerea}) is invasive in many places.

The dry heathland is now dominated by Bracken ({\it Pteridium aquilinum}) and Gorse ({\it Ulex europaeus}) but small pockets of Heather ({\it Calluna vulgaris}), Bell heather ({\it Erica cinerea}) and Cross-leaved heath ({\it Erica tetralix}) still survive. Acidic grassland also occurs locally and is characterised by Wavy hair grass ({\it Deschampsia flexuosa}), Sweet vernal grass ({\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}) and Sheep's sorrel ({\it Rumex acetosella}). Bushes of Hawthorn ({\it Crataegus monogyna}) and Blackthorn ({\it Prunus spinosa}) on many open areas of heath." 

The nationally rare* species {\it Dryopteris cristata} and the nationally scarce** {\it Gentiana pneumonanthe} and {\it Thelypteris palustris} have been recorded in the area of the SSSI. 

*Nationally rare species are those occurring in 15 or few 10 km squares in Britain.

**Nationally scarce species are those occurring in between 16 and 100 10 km squares in Britain (D.A. Pearman {\it et al} (1994), 'Scarce Plants in Britain')

MANAGE:
The Beeston Common Management Group are  mainly responsible for the management of the site on behalf of the owners, Sheringham Town Council. The common is managed primarily for nature conservation and is the subject of a Countryside Stewardship agreement which expires in 2002.

The 1992 Management Plan lists 8 objectives:

1) To maintain the mosaic of acid and calcareous habitats and associated plant and animal communities.

2) To control the spread of invasive species such as bracken, gorse, bramble, willow and birch.

3) To extend and maintain areas of open heath, bog and grassland.

4) To maintain areas of fen and carr.

5) To maintain existing areas of semi "mature" woodland and selected stands of primary wood and scrub. 

6) To maintain open water courses and ponds, regulating water levels as appropriate.

7) To promote public access for quiet recreational purposes and for study.

8) To encourage the use of the common for environmental education.

The management plan sets out how the above objectives are to be achieved in practice. Management work includes mowing of bog, fen, wet/dry heath and grassland habitats at set frequencies and times of the year and the cutting of invasive scrub and bracken.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: barn owl, chaffinch, chiffchaff, coot*, greylag goose*, swallow, yellowhammer. Several azure damselflies ({\it Enallagma cyathigerum}) were seen along the western and southern boundaries. 

*These birds were seen in stands of {\it Phragmites australis} on the western side of the River Ant.

VEG:
The {\it Alnus glutinosa} dominated woodland in the western half of the common contains abundant {\it Salix cinerea} with occasional {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. There is good regeneration of {\it A. glutinosa} and {\it S. cinerea}. The ground flora along the western edge contains abundant {\it Phragmites australis} with frequent {\it Iris pseudacorus, Phalaris arundinacea, Urtica dioica} and {\it Valeriana dioica} plus occasional {\it Angelica sylvestris}.

In the western half of the common, the woodland and {\it Salix} scrub grades into dense {\it Phragmites australis} dominated swamp with scattered {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Salix cinerea}.

An untrimmed, dense {\it Salix} spp. / {\it Alnus glutinosa} hedge (up to 5m high and 6m wide) runs along the northern boundary.

The common was viewed from the public footpath running along the eastern boundary and the concessionary footpath running along the southern boundary using binoculars.

MANAGE:
No ongoing management apparent. The large area of swamp with alder and willow woodland, and its proximity to the open water of the River Ant provides a good area of cover for wetland birds.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted during the survey: chaffinch, chiffchaff, house sparrow, woodpigeon.

VEG:
Most of the largest section of the common is a mature {\it Pinus} sp. plantation with scattered {\it Betula pendula, Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus robur} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. There is an understorey of scattered {\it Rhododendron ponticum} with occasional {\it Ilex aquifolium}. The ground is mostly covered in pine needles, but in lighter areas towards the edge of the canopy there are dense stands of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with frequent {\it Galium aparine} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and occasional stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

Along footpaths and tracks, there are dense stands of {\it Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Corydalis} sp., {\it Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Silene dioica} and {\it Torilis japonica}. To the NE of the plantation, there is an area of mature {\it Calluna vulgaris} dominated dry heath with frequent scattered {\it Betula pendula}.

The detached section to the south (TG085370) was viewed from the road only and appears to contain poor semi-improved grassland. This may not be accurate and further on-site survey is required.

The smallest section (TG085365) is surrounded on 3 sides by a {\it Pinus} sp. plantation and appears to be a disused pit. It contains dense {\it Ulex europaeus} with scattered {\it Betula pendula, B. pubescens, Prunus} sp., {\it Quercus robur, Rosa} sp. and {\it Sambucus nigra}. There are dense stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} along the northern edge. Along the roadside edge, there are stands of {\it Torilis japonica} with frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Chamerion angustifolium, Corydalis} sp., {\it Ornithopus perpusillus, Plantago lanceolata, Silene dioica, Teucrium scorodonia, Urtica dioica} and {\it Vicia sativa}, plus occasional {\it Artemisia vulgaris} agg., {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Montia sibirica} and {\it Rumex acetosella}.

MANAGE:
Locallised removal of {\it Rhododenron ponticum} has been carried out in the pine plantation.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, house sparrow, mallard, moorhen, robin, woodpigeon. Numerous frog tadpoles and water fleas ({\it Daphnia} sp.) were seen in ponds 3 and 4. Several large white butterflies were seen. There is evidence of rabbit grazing in the western half of the common. According to a local resident, there used to be resident nightingales on the common and the ponds support good populations of newts (species not specified), damselflies and dragonflies.

VEG:
West of the railway, there are four large ponds separated by poor semi-improved grassland with patches of semi-improved acid grassland, scattered scrub and trees ({\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium, Quercus robur}).

The patches of semi-improved acid grassland (too small to map separately from B6) contain {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca} sp., with frequent {\it Achillea millefolium, Glechoma hederacea, Rumex acetosella} and {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}. The sward is generally short (less than 5cm high).

All the ponds in this section were surveyed and are numbered 1 to 4 on the map. 

Pond 1 contains only about 10 x 5m of open water in its centre; the remaining area contains dense stands of {\it Glyceria maxima}. There is overhanging {\it Salix} sp. scrub on the western side.

Pond 2 contains dense stands of {\it Glyceria maxima} with a belt of {\it Typha latifolia} on the southern side. It is fringed on the western side with {\it Salix} sp. scrub with frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and occasional {\it Ulex europaeus}. On the eastern side, there are 2 mature {\it Quercus robur} trees. The pond may have been polluted in some way; unlike the other ponds on the common, the water is an opaque light grey colour.

Pond 3 is mostly open water. It contains frequent {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica, Ranunculus} sp. (water crowfoot) and blanket weed (a filamentous alga). It is fringed with frequent {\it Solanum dulcamara} plus occasional {\it Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Lycopus europaeus}. The pond is partially shaded by {\it Salix} sp. scrub on the south side and nearby {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Quercus robur} trees.

Pond 4 (just outside CL boundary) contains abundant blanket weed plus occasional {\it Callitriche} sp. It is fringed with a dense tangle of {\it Salix} sp. scrub (which extends into the water) and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. This largely prevents access to the bank around the southern half of the pond. At the southern end, there is a mature, overhanging {\it Salix fragilis} tree and a rotting trunk which has fallen into the water. Under the more open parts of the scrub canopy, there is a patchy groundflora of {\it Glechoma hederacea, Hedera helix} and {\it Ranunculus ficaria} with occasional {\it Cardamine pratensis} and {\it Juncus inflexus}.

Drainage ditches (up to 0.75m deep and 1m wide) join all the ponds mentioned above. These contain occasional {\it Angelica sylvestris, Glyceria maxima, Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Solanum dulcamara} with locally frequent {\it Galium aparine, Geranium robertianum, Ranunculus ficaria, Silene dioica} and {\it Urtica dioica} on their banks.

East of the railway, there is amenity grassland with scattered scrub ({\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa}). 2 ponds were surveyed in this area. Pond 5 is surronded by overhanging {\it Salix} sp., {\it Salix viminalis} and {\it Sambucus nigra} with occasional {\it Alnus glutinosa} saplings. Under the scrub, there is a ground flora of scattered {\it Arum maculatum, Glechoma hederacea, Ranunculus ficaria} and {\it Urtica dioica}.

Pond 6 contains dense stands of {\it Phragmites australis} with frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica} with occasional {\it Chelidonium majus, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Salix} sp.

MANAGE:
Part of the common is mown regularly and managed as amenity grassland. According to a local resident, the common was once all dense scrub, but this was cleared by the council some years ago. Nightingales were resident before this time. She also mentioned that the ponds support good populations of newts (species not specified), damselflies and dragonflies.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, house sparrow, mallard, moorhen, pied wagtail, woodpigeon.

VEG:
The composition of the sward varies widely over the site. The most abundant grass species appear to be {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Poa} spp. There are small areas where {\it Juncus effusus} is dominant; these have been mapped as B5. Other species recorded in the sward include locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Carex hirta, Cynosurus cristatus, Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne, Bellis perennis, Cardamine pratensis, Cerastium fontanum} ssp. {\it holosteoides, Glechoma hederacea, Lotus pendunculatus, Plantago lanceolata, Potentilla anserina, Ranunculus acris, R. flammula, R. repens, Rumex acetosa, Stellaria media} and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. plus occasional {\it Carex panicea, Caltha palustris, Equisetum palustre, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Prunella vulgaris, Rumex crispus, R. obtusifolius} and {\it Urtica dioica}.  

The drains which cross the common contain locally abundant {\it Glyceria fluitans} and {\it G. maxima} with locally frequent {\it Apium nodiflorum, Azolla filiculoides, Juncus inflexus, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Veronica beccabunga}. The grass sward on the banks contains scattered {\it Cirsium arvense, C. palustre, Ranunculus flammula, Senecio aquaticus} and {\it Urtica dioica}.

Along the eastern boundary, there is a scrubby, discontinuous {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated hedgerow with mature standard {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur. Acer pseudoplatanus, Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees are situated along the western boundary.

MANAGE:
Used for cattle grazing. There has been recent limited clearance of some of the drains.


VEG:
The common was viewed from the boundaries only, using binoculars. Within the sward, there are scattered patches of {\it Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Glyceria maxima}. Along the northern edge, patches of {\it Caltha palustris} and {\it Phalaris arundinacea} with scattered {\it Salix} sp. bushes are also visible. Other species visible in the sward include frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Ranunculus} sp. (looks like {\it R. acris}) and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg.

It should be noted that recording this grassland as poor semi-improved may not be correct - on site survey is required.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, house sparrow, magpie. Pond snails and pond skaters were seen in the pond. 

The following additional information concerning fauna is reproduced from the notice board near the eastern entrance to the common:

"...On the grasslands the common lizard may be seen basking in the summer sunshine." 

"The common is a haven for birdlife; over 40 species have been recorded, including mistle-thrush, nightingale, tree-creeper, great spotted woodpecker, spotted flycatcher, linnet, willow and long-tailed tits, chiffchaff, willow warbler and whitethroat." 

"The pond is of great wildlife interest because of the newts, both smooth and great-crested, that breed in it and the dragonflies and damselflies that occur. Ten species have been recorded at various times between May and September. Damselflies include emerald and azure, dragonflies include ruddy darter, brown hawker and the southern hawker..."

"The butterfly population includes meadow brown, wall brown, gatekeeper, ringlet, large skipper, small skipper, green-viened white, orange-tip, small tortoiseshell, red admiral, painted lady, common blue, small copper, small heath, comma, brimstone and holly blue. The elephant hawk and emperor moths have also been seen."

VEG:
The woodland surrounds an extensive area of dense scrub and scattered trees with smaller areas of acid grassland and dry heath. It is generally dominated by mature {\it Quercus robur}, although in the southwest quarter, mature {\it Betula pubescens} is dominant. Other tree species noted: occasional {\it Acer campestre, Prunus avium, Tilia} sp. and {\it Ulmus glabra}. Some of the {\it A. campestre} and {\it Q. robur} trees appear to have been coppiced at an early stage in their growth. 1 pollard was seen. There is localized regeneration of {\it B. pubescens} and {\it Q. robur}, mostly along the western boundary, where saplings are frequent. Some standing {\it Betula} deadwood has been left {\it in situ}, and this supports the birch polypore fungus ({\it Piptoporus betulinus}).

The density of the understorey varies. In the eastern half, there is occasional, scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Salix} sp., {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ulex europaeus}. In the western half (especially along the western boundary), the understorey is much denser and there is frequent coppiced {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} with occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Rosa} sp. and {\it Tamus communis}. 

Under the canopy, there are extensive areas covered with leaf litter and twigs where ground flora species are sparse; these are interspersed with patches of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with scattered {\it Dryopteris dilatata} and locally frequent (mostly in the vicinity of footpaths) {\it Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Glechoma hederacea, Hedera helix, Holcus mollis} and {\it Teucrium scorodonia} plus occasional {\it Lysimachia nemorum, Stachys sylvatica} and {\it Viola riviniana}. Under gaps in the canopy, there is frequent {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Urtica dioica} with occasional {\it Centaurea nigra}.
A larger gap in the canopy, along the western boundary, is occupied by dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

The large area of dense scrub which is surrounded by the woodland, is dominated by {\it Ulex europaeus} with scattered young {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Quercus robur} trees. Some clearance of this and {\it Betula} trees has recently been carried out in the north west quarter of the common, perhaps in an attempt to create areas of acid grassland or dry heath. The scrub is fringed with scattered areas of acid grassland and dry heath. The acid grassland is a mixture of {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca} sp. with frequent {\it Galium saxatile, Rumex acetosa} and {\it R. acetosella} plus occasional {\it Carex hirta}. The dry heath is dominated by mature {\it Calluna vulgaris}.

A small pond (The Newt Pond, see Fauna section) in the eastern half of the common with very gently sloping banks is fringed with frequent {\it Glyceria fluitans, Juncus effusus, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Ranunculus flammula}. 

According to the notice board near the eastern entrance, {\it Alnus glutinosa, Carpinus betulus, Campanula rotundifolia, Cirsium palustre} and orchids (species not specified) are also present on the common.

MANAGE:
Coppicing of {\it Corylus avellana} has been carried out in the last ten years and more recently there has been some clearance of dense {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub and young {\it Betula} sp. woodland in the NW quarter of the common. 

The following general information is reproduced from the notice board near the eastern entrance to the common:

"The common covers 24 acres. It consists of a series of attractive wildlife habitats and landscapes. The area is managed so as to maintain and improve the quality of the wildlife habitats, and improve the paths so that access for people is also easier."


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, house sparrow, song thrush, yellowhammer.

VEG:
The woodland is mostly dominated by {\it Betula} sp. {\it Alnus glutinosa} is locally dominant (with frequent {\it Fraxinus excelsior}) on lower, wetter ground in the central area of the common. Along the NE facing boundary, there is an area of old {\it Castanea sativa} coppice. 

The {\it Betula} sp. dominated areas also contain occasional {\it Pinus} sp., which have probably spread from adjoining plantations. The {\it Betula} sp. trees generally have a spindly appearance with high crowns; regeneration is good and there is a wide age range, although trunk diameters do not exceed 15cm at chest height. There is an understorey of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Rhododendron ponticum}. The ground is covered with a thick layer of leaf litter interspersed with patches of {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Molinia caerulea, Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.

Towards the lower ground in the central area of the common, the {\it Betula} sp. dominated canopy grades into a mature {\it Alnus glutinosa} dominated canopy with frequent {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and occasional {\it Prunus padus} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. Some {\it A. glutinosa} appears to have been coppiced at an early stage in its growth. Regeneration of this species and {\it F. excelsior} is good and there are frequent scattered saplings. There is an understorey of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Viburnum opulus}.

The ground is frequently saturated and supports carpets of {\it Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Solanum dulcamara} with locally frequent {\it Callitriche} sp., {\it Cirsium palustre, Equisetum palustre, G. palustre, Mentha aquatica, Urtica dioica} and {\it Valeriana officinalis} plus occasional {\it Carex hirta, C. remota, Deschampsia cespitosa, Juncus effusus, Cardamine pratensis, Cardamine} sp., {\it Lycopus europaeus} and {\it Ranunculus flammula}. Rotting logs and the bases of tree trunks are covered with a variety of bryophytes including {\it Mnium hornum, Plagiomnium affine, P. undulatum} and {\it Thuidium tamariscinum}. The areas described above grade onto drier ground which supports frequent {\it Holcus mollis, Dryopteris dilatata, Galium aparine, Geum urbanum, Hedera helix, Silene dioica} and {\it Stachys sylvatica} plus occasional {\it Alliaria petiolata, Ranunculus ficaria, Stellaria holostea} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys}.

Much standing and fallen deadwood has been left {\it in situ} in the {\it Betula} and {\it Alnus} dominated areas. Dead {\it Betula} trunks support {\it Piptoporus betulinus}.

The mature {\it Castanea sativa} coppice along the NE boundary all appears to be of a similar age. There is very little regeneration. The ground is covered in a thick layer of leaf litter interspersed with scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Around the bases of the tree trunks, there is occasional {\it Leucobryum glaucum}.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent livestock grazing, felling, planting or coppicing was seen. For the benefit of wildlife, it would be desirable to continue the practice of leaving standing and fallen deadwood {\it in situ}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, house sparrow, great tit, pheasant. Several large white butterflies were seen.

VEG:
South of the road, the tall herb vegetation is dominated by {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Aegopodium podagraria, Anthriscus sylvestris, Cirsium arvense, Galium aparine, Heracleum sphondylium, Lamium album} and {\it Silene dioica} plus occasional {\it Arctium} sp. On lower ground, this grades into {\it Filpendula ulmaria} dominated vegetation with occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Caltha palustris} and {\it Cirsium palustre}. Drainage ditches which cross the site are fringed with dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum}, with locally frequent {\it Juncus inflexus, Equisetum telmateia} and {\it Veronica beccabunga} plus occasional {\it Caltha palustris} and {\it Scrophularia aquatica}. A small pond (about 5m wide) in the southern half is fringed with abundant {\it Equisetum telmateia}. 

A trimmed {\it Taxus baccata} boundary hedge runs along the eastern boundary. The bank below this supports frequent {\it Alliaria petiolata, Equisetum telmateia, E. arvense, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Mercurialis perennis} plus occasional {\it Alchemilla} sp., {\it Arum maculatum, Lunaria annua, Mecanopsis} sp., cultivated {\it Narcissus} sp. and {\it Primula veris}.

Across the common, there is occasional scattered {\it Alnus glutinosa, Corylus avellana} (1 bush only seen), {\it Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior, Salix} sp. and {\it Sambucus nigra}. The trees are mostly saplings. A few older trees are situated near the eastern boundary. 

North of the road, there are dense stands of {\it Urtica dioica} similar to those described above. A stream is fringed with frequent {\it Apium nodiflorum} and partly shaded by overhanging mature {\it Salix fragilis}.

MANAGE:
Apart from trimming of the eastern boundary hedge, the common appears to be unmanaged. In future, scrub will probably spread gradually over the site.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blue tit, chaffinch, house sparrow, swallow. Several orange tip butterflies were seen.

VEG:
Most of the area of this linear common is occupied by dense {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} dominated scrub with frequent {\it Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus} plus scattered {\it Acer campestre, A. pseudoplatanus, Alnus glutinosa, Cytisus scoparius, Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus robur, Salix} sp., {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ulmus procera}. The trees are of various ages; the oldest are situated along the boundaries of the adjoining fields. At the southern end of the common, the scrub grades into {\it Quercus robur} dominated woodland.

The ground flora under the woodland is dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with frequent {\it Galium aparine, Glechoma hederacea, Hedera helix, Lonicera periclymenum, Teucrium scorodonia} and {\it Urtica dioica} plus occasional {\it Adoxa moschatellina, Arum maculatum, Chamerion angustifolium, Ceratocapnos claviculata, Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Narcissus} sp.

The edge of the scrub along the road is fringed with tall grass/ruderal vegetation dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata} with frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium, Torilis japonica} and {\it Urtica dioica}. 

It is unclear from the common register maps as to whether the southernmost section is part of this common land unit or the adjacent CL215.

MANAGE:
No ongoing management apparent. It is likely that the scrub developed after the exercising of grazing ceased. The scrub provides a valuable  area of cover for birds and small mammals in a predominantly open landscape.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, house sparrow, woodpigeon. Several large white, peacock and small blue butterflies were seen.

VEG:
The dense scrub is dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with locally abundant {\it Ulex europaeus} and scattered young {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur}. This adjoins areas of dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} which contain patches (too small to map) of tall herb vegetation dominated by {\it Chamerion angustifolium} with frequent {\it Urtica dioica}. Along informal footpaths runnung through the {\it Pteridium}, there is frequent {\it Ceratocapnos claviculata, Galium saxatile, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Rumex acetosella} plus occasional {\it Geranium molle. Anthriscus sylvestris, Torilis japonica, Urtica dioica} and {\it Anisantha sterilis} are frequent along the roadside.

Most of the broadleaved woodland is situated in the western half of the common. It is dominated by {\it Betula pendula} with occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Quercus robur}. Regeneration is good and there is a wide age range. Most trees have trunk diameters of less than 10cm at chest height. Some of the older {\it Betula} appears to have been coppiced at an early stage in its growth. There is a ground flora of scattered {\it Holcus mollis, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Teucrium scorodonia}.

In the eastern corner, there is a small area of {\it Quercus robur} dominated woodland with frequent {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. This has an understorey of scattered {\it Corylus avellana} with occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna}. The ground flora consists of scattered patches of {\it Holcus mollis, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Montia perfoliata}, plus occasional {\it Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas, Arum maculatum} and {\it Geranium robertianum}.

MANAGE:
Some {\it Ulex europaeus} in the central area of the common has been burnt within the last year; this may have been accidental. Domestic rubbish has been dumped in a pit in the woodland in the eastern corner of the common; it would be desirable to prevent further accumulation.

No evidence of recent livestock grazing, coppicing, felling or planting was seen. Because of the large extent of dense bracken and scrub, the common is largely unsuitable for livestock grazing.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chaffinch, coot, domestic duck, house sparrow, mallard, moorhen, swallow, woodpigeon. Large white, orange tip and small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen in the northern half of the common.

VEG:
The small area to the south of the road bridge is improved grassland fringed with tall herb vegetation (dominated by {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Conium maculatum} and {\it Galium aparine} plus occasional {\it Arctium} sp., {\it Glyceria maxima} and {\it Phalaris arundinacea}). It appears to be used for informal recreation rather than grazing. Mature {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} overhang the River Wensum; the waters edge is fringed with discontinuous stands of {\it Glyceria maxima} and {\it Phalaris arundinacea}.

The main area of the common is used for sheep and horse grazing. In the northern half, the sward is a mixture of {\it Festuca} sp., {\it Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne} and {\it Poa} spp. with distinct areas of tussocky {\it Dactylis glomerata}. Herb species recorded: locally abundant {\it Potentilla anserina} with locally frequent {\it Bellis perennis, Cerastium fontanum} ssp. {\it holosteoides, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. plus occasional {\it Carex hirta, C. ovalis, Cardamine pratensis} and {\it Cirsium arvense}. Scattered shallow depressions (most are too small to map) contain stands of {\it Glyceria maxima} with occasional {\it Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Galium palustre}. 

Most of the grassland was observed through binoculars from the CL boundary; the sward appears to be similar to that in the northern half described above and has been recorded as B6; on-site survey is needed to confirm this.

The drain which runs in a north-south direction across the common contains occasional {\it Nuphar lutea} and {\it Callitriche} sp. and is fringed with dense stands of {\it Glyceria maxima} with locally abundant {\it Phalaris arundinacea} and occasional {\it Carex} sp., {\it Mentha aquatica} and {\it Typha latifolia}. The banks support dense stands of {\it Urtica dioica} (which extend up to 8m into the surrounding grassland) with locally abundant {\it Epilobium hirsutum} plus locally frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Alliaria petiolata, Filipendula ulmaria, Galeopsis tetrahit} and {\it Galium aparine}.

Along the western boundary, there is a scrubby, discontinuous {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated hedgerow with mature standard {\it Quercus robur}.

MANAGE:
Used for sheep and horse grazing. The land may be subject to flooding during the winter.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, blue tit, chiffchaff, house sparrow, woodpigeon.

VEG:
The woodland is dominated by mature {\it Betula pendula} with frequent {\it Betula pubescens} and {\it Quercus robur} plus occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Fagus sylvatica, Malus} sp. and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. There is localized regeneration of all these species. Some of the older {\it Betula} trees appear to have been subject to coppicing at an early stage in their growth. In the western quarter of the common, some of the {\it Betula} and {\it Quercus} trees appear to have been planted. Standing and fallen deadwood has been left in place: dead {\it Betula} trunks support {\it Piptoporus betulinus}. 

There is an open understorey of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} with occasional {\it Corylus avellana, Cytisus scoparius, Ilex aquifolium, Prunus spinosa, Salix} sp. and {\it Ulex europaeus}.

The ground is covered with leaf litter, interspersed with patches of {\it Holcus mollis, Hedera helix, Geranium robertianum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Pteridium aquilinum} (western quarter) and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. plus occasional {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum, Deschampsia flexuosa, Alliaria petiolata, Anenome nemorosa, Conopodium majus, Centaurea nigra, Lunaria annua, Stellaria holostea} and {\it Teucrium scorodonia}.
Along the road side on the north side of the common, there is abundant {\it Mercurialis perennis}. 

In the central area of the common, there is a small area of semi-improved acid grassland dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca} sp.

MANAGE:
Areas of uneven ground in the central and western areas of the common suggest that soil/mineral extraction once took place. 

There is no evidence of recent coppicing. It appears that some planting may have taken place in the western quarter of the common. For the benefit of wildlife, it would be desirable to continue the practice of leaving standing and fallen deadwood {\it in situ}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, woodpigeon.

VEG:
The central area of the common is a mosaic of rank grassland and tall herb vegetation. Species recorded include locally abundant {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Urtica dioica} with locally frequent {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Anthriscus sylvestris, Centaurea nigra, Chamerion angustifolium, Galium aparine, Heracleum sphondylium, Lamium album} and {\it Rumex obtusifolius} plus occasional {\it Angelica sylvestris, Conopodium majus} and {\it Galeopsis tetrahit}. Four drains are shown on the map; only the western-most one was seen - its banks support abundant {\it Filipendula ulmaria}. 

The surrounding scrub is dominated by {\it Salix} spp. with frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. plus scattered {\it Prunus spinosa, Ribes} sp., {\it Ulex europaeus} and young {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Betula} sp. This grades into young {\it Betula} sp. dominated woodland on the western side of the common with scattered {\it Alnus glutinosa}.


VEG:
Mostly {\it Quercus robur} secondary woodland with {\it Betula pendula} and {\it B. pubescens} and areas of {\it Salix} sp. scrub. Along the eastern edge there is an area of continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Salix} sp. and {\it Prunus spinosa} scrub.


VEG:
The broadleaved woodland is dominated by {\it Betula} sp. with occasional {\it Quercus cerris, Q. robur, Larix} sp., {\it Pinus} sp. and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. The {\it Betula} sp. trees generally have a spindly appearance with high crowns; regeneration is locally good and there is a wide age range, although trunk diameters do not exceed 20cm at chest height. Some standing deadwood has been left {\it in situ} and this supports {\it Piptoporus betulinus}. There is an understorey of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. The ground is covered with a thick layer of leaf litter interspersed with patches of {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. plus occasional {\it Holcus mollis, Corydalis} sp., {\it Hedera helix, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Polytrichum} sp. {\it Alliaria petiolata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Galium aparine, Geum urbanum, Glechoma hederacea, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Stachys sylvatica} are frequent along the edge of the canopy where access tracks pass through the woodland; there is also occasional {\it Fragaria vesca}, cultivated {\it Narcissus} sp. and {\it Teucrium scorodonia}.

In the northern half of the common, there are areas of enclosed, improved grassland grazed by horses and cattle.

Along the southern boundary, there is an area of {\it Pinus} sp. plantation which appears to continue southwards, outside the CL boundary.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent felling, coppicing or planting was seen. The wooded areas of the common appear to be ungrazed. Livestock is restricted to enclosed, improved grassland in the northern half of the common. For the benefit of wildlife, it would be desirable to continue the practice of leaving deadwood {\it in situ}.


FAUNA:
Blackbird, chiffchaff, woodpigeon, yellowhammer and the butterflies large white, peacock and small blue were recorded during the site visit. There were abundant tadpoles in pond 1 (TG260350). Reedbeds support sedge warbler and reed bunting (SSSI citation). Two Red Data Book species of Diptera have been recorded from the site ({\it Pteromicra glabricula} and {\it Colobaea distincta}) and seven notable species of Diptera ({\it Calliopum elisae, Chelifera angusta, Hilara nigrohirta, Oscinella angularis, O. angustipennis, Oxycera trilineata} and {\it Tropidia scita}) and the site is listed on the Invertebrate Site Register.

VEG:
Southrepps common is situated in the upper valley of the River Ant. The central part of the common is designated a SSSI. The SSSI supports very local fen communities largely restricted to E. Anglia.

The following is an extract from the SSSI citation:

"On the lower area of the northern valley slope an intricate mosaic of vegetation types has developed with {\it Juncus subnodulosus} dominating. Calcareous fen species, several of which are particularly uncommon in the county, are present here including {\it Parnassia palustris, Briza media, Anagallis tenella, Triglochin palustris} and {\it Carex pulicaris}. Associated low hummocks support species more characteristic of acid conditions including {\it Cirsium dissectum, Calluna vulgaris, Luzula multiflora, Nardus stricta, Danthonia decumbens} and {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}.

The southern valley side has developed an open bed of {\it Phragmites australis} under much of which {\it J. subnodulosus} again dominates. Exceptionally large colonies of the uncommon {\it Epipactis palustris} and {\it Gymnadaenia conopsea} var. {\it densiflora} are present throughout, together with {\it Valeriana dioica} and occasional {\it Carex oedocarpa} ssp. {\it brachyrrhyncha} and {\it Menyanthes trifoliata}. Small areas of open bryophyte carpets occur very sporadically and these support the low-growing calcicole species characteristic of the northern valley side together with {\it Pedicularis palustris, Euphrasia officinalis} agg. and {\it Eleocharis quinqueflora}. Around the margins of this area {\it P. australis} has become dominant..." 

The area of fen was subject to an NVC survey in 1992/3 as part of the Norfolk Valley Fen Survey. The vegetation to the south of the stream showed clear dominance of {\it Phragmites australis} showing continuous variation from rank and nitrophilous S26 ({\it Phragmites australis-Urtica dioica} tall herb fen) and simple, species-poor reed swamp (S4a, {\it P. australis} swamp, {\it P. australis} sub-community) through S25a ({\it Phragmites australis-Eupatorium cannabinum} tall herb fen, {\it P. australis} sub-community to M24a ({\it Molinia caerulea-Cirsium dissectum} fen meadow, {\it Eupatorium cannabinum} sub community) and M24b (typical sub-community) with this last classifying the most species-dense patches around the dipwell and just north of the stream. The {\it P. australis} dominated vegetation occured on notably drier ground and the abundance of nitrophiles such as {\it Cirsium arvense, Galium aparine} and {\it Urtica dioica} suggest increased fertility and limited or no exposure to oligotrophic, flushing waters. 

The northern part of the fen was largely devoid of {\it Phragmites}. Near to the stream a narrow heterogeneous stand was present in which species such as {\it Carex acutiformis, Filipendula ulmaria, Juncus subnodulosus, Pulicaria dysenterica} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum} are patchily mixed at variable cover. This vegetation was bordered upslope by an area of M24b in which {\it Cirsium dissectum} was, in places, strikingly abundant. Moving north there was a gradual change to a coarse {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} dominated grassland (MG1) characterised by the disappearance of {\it J. subnodulosus} and a more gradual reduction in {\it Cirsio-Molinietum} herbs. Species associated with this community were frequent {\it Heracleum sphondylium} plus {\it Cirsium palustre, Centaurea nigra, Carex nigra, Potentilla anserina, Angelica sylvestris, Rhinanthus minor, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Festuca arundinacea, Plantago lanceolata, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Carex hirta} (present at variable cover and frequency) and locally {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris}. {\it Festuca rubra, F. ovina} and {\it Holcus lanatus} were recorded as dominant species in this area in 1986 with the additional species {\it Pulicaria dysenterica, Caltha palustris, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, D. praetermissa} and {\it Cirsium dissectum}. 

Wheeler and Shaw recorded M13 {\it Schoeno-junceta} from the south east of the site with one patch supporting {\it Carex dioica} and {\it Eleocharis quinqueflora}. Neither of those species nor M13 were recorded during the 1992/93 survey despite thorough searching. 

The fen vegetation is largely surrounded by scrub and marginal woodland with {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Salix cinerea, S. fragilis, Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Quercus robur}. Ground flora species recorded from this habitat in the 1986 Phase 1 survey were {\it Phragmites australis, Filipendula ulmaria, Carex acutiformis, Valeriana officinalis, Glechoma hederacea, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ribes nigrum}.

Additional species recorded from the areas of marshy grassland during the 1986 Phase 1 survey included abundant {\it Lotus pedunculatus}, frequent {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Galium palustre, C. panicea, Equisetum palustre} and {\it Agrostis canina}, occasional {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Galium uliginosum, Rhinanthus minor} (locally frequent) and {\it Succisa pratensis. Holcus lanatus} was locally dominant and {\it Listera ovata} and {\it Carex echinata} rare. {\it Blysmus compressus, Berula erecta} and {\it Viola palustris} were recorded from these communities during 1980 and {\it Dactylorhiza maculata} in 1984.

The following notes were made on this part of the common during the site visit. The area of swamp appears to be {\it Phragmites australis} plus abundant {\it Filipendula ulmaria}. 

{\it Carex} sp., {\it Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Urtica dioica} plus occasional {\it Iris pseudacorus} and abundant {\it Galium aparine} were recorded in the ground flora of the {\it Alnus glutinosus} woodland surrounding the fen. Occasional {\it Briza media}, frequent orchids, abundant {\it Valeriana dioica} and locally abundant {\it Carex pendula?} were noted in {\it Juncus} spp. areas and also frequent {\it Eupatorium cannabinum, Myosotis aquatica} plus {\it Angelica sylvestris}. 

The western section of the common comprises young {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} woodland (trunk diameters to 20cm ACH, a few coppiced) with areas of {\it Prunus spinosa/Crataegus monogyna} scrub which also contains occasional {\it Salix} sp., {\it Sambucus nigra, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Cytisus scoparius}. Understorey species recorded beneath the {\it A. pseudoplatanus} were {\it Prunus spinosa, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}. Beneath the scrub and {\it A. pseudoplatanus} there was leaf litter with numerous {\it A. pseudoplatanus} seedlings beneath the woodland. {\it Ranunculus ficaria} and {\it Adoxa moschatellina} were locally frequent. Other species recorded were: frequent {\it Urtica dioica, Pteridium aquilinum, Lonicera periclymenum}, occasional {\it Arum maculatum, Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas} and locally abundant {\it Hedera helix}. {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Salix cinerea} were scattered towards the western end. Also recorded: locally frequent {\it Silene dioica}, occasional {\it Tamus communis}, locally abundant {\it Glechoma hederacea, Holcus mollis} (frequent at edges), {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Torillis japonica, Heracleum sphondylium, Urtica dioica} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys} (along paths) and occasional {\it Centaurea nigra}.

The pond at TG260350 has {\it Nuphar lutea} plus abundant {\it Crassula} sp. fringing the water. A stand of {\it Typha angustifolia} occupies half of the pond with occasional {\it Iris pseudacorus} and frequent {\it Myosotis aquatica. Eleocharis palustris} was also frequent fringing the water. Also recorded were a water crowfoot ({\it Ranunculus} sp.), occasional {\it Solanum dulcamara, Glyceria fluitans} (around the edges), locally frequent {\it Ranunculus flammula} and occasional {\it Eleocharis palustris} and {\it Equisetum palustre}. Some {\it Filipendula ulmaria} was noted at the edges of the {\it Rubus fruticosus} scrub. There was a {\it Juncus effusus} marshy area around the pond with {\it Potentilla anserina, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Cirsium palustre}. 

The eastern end of the common supports {\it Crataegus monogyna} scrub with scattered {\it Quercus robur} with an understorey of {\it Holcus mollis?} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. There is a clearing of {\it P. aquilinum} near the eastern boundary. The ground flora is similar to that described from the western section except there is also occasional {\it Polypodium vulgare} and locally frequent {\it Chelidonium majus} and {\it Corydalis} sp. {\it Chamerion angustifolium} occurs around the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and there is locally frequent {\it Stellaria holostea}, also occasional {\it Cytisus scoparius}.

MANAGE:
The SSSI is under Countryside Stewardship and is an LNR. Boardwalks have been installed to allow public access. In comparing the 1986 Phase 1 survey map and that of the 1992/3 NVC map there appears to have been expansion of woodland on the SSSI.

The nature conservation objectives for the site are to:

1) Maintain an open fen area.

2) Maintain the open reedbed on the southern valley side.

3) Continue to maintain the overall habitat diversity including scrub areas and alder carr along the river as used by nesting Reed Bunting and Sedge Warbler.

4) Maintain viable populations of all recorded rare or scarce invertebrate species (Site Objectives Statement).

At the time of the 1986 Phase 1 survey, there was some locallised grazing by horses and/or tethered cows and goats. Part of the {\it J. subnodulosus} fen had been mown in 1991.


FAUNA:
The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation within which this common lies:

The site is of national importance for its fenland invertebrate fauna, and a considerable number of rare or notable species have been recorded from several groups. There is a large population of the Swallow-tail Butterfly, whose larvae feed on {\it Peucedanum palustre}, and it is the only known site in Britain for {\it Trogus lapidator}, a wasp parasite on the Swallowtail. 45 species of moth considered rare or notable are present, including the only British localities for the Small Dotted Footman {\it Pelosia obtusa}, whose larvae depend on algae attached to Reed litter. Small pools in shallow depressions, largely associated with 19th century peat diggings and turf ponds and wetter areas of fen, are of exceptional interest for their aquatic coleoptera (water-beetles), and indeed the site is considered to be the most important in Britain for this group. The many rare relict fen species present are indicative of an undisturbed post-glacial history, and include {\it Agabus striolatus, Hydranea palustris} and {\it Hypdroporus scalesciarius}. The weevil, {\it Ceutorhynchus querceti} is one of several rare Coleoptera in addition to the water-beetles, and a particularly large number of rare or notable Diptera (Trueflies) has been recorded. The site also supports a wide range of breeding birds and insects including the majority of the broadland specialities. Areas of reedswamp around the margins of the Broads provide a nesting habitat for wildfowl such as Gadwall, Pochard, Teal, Shoveler and Tufted Duck. Cromes Broad and Barton Broad attract moderate numbers of wintering wildfowl including Mallard, Teal, Wigeon, Shoveler, Pochard and Tufted Duck.

VEG:
CL352 lies within the extensive Ant Broads and Marshes SSSI and at the time of the 1982 Phase 1 survey supported a large area of swamp vegetation with marginal woodland.

The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

The flood-plain of the middle Ant valley, one of the 5 principal river valley systems constituting Broadland, supports one of the most extensive remaining areas of undeveloped primary fen habitats in Britain, and is considered to form the finest example of unpolluted valley fen in Western Europe. Nationally important stands of carr woodland are also present, principally in the vicinity of Barton Broad, and the wide range of wetland habitats has given rise to an associated fauna of exceptional interest.

In contrast with other Broadland river valleys, there are extensive areas of species-rich mixed fen communities that are still regularly cut for reed and sedge. Past management coupled with local hydrological and substrate variations has resulted in the development of the most diverse pattern of fen vegetation of all the Broadland valleys, and provides the only known sites for several plant communities and uncommon species that were once more widespread in Broadland. Further particularly distinctive features of the Ant Valley wetlands include the presence of numerous pools and turf ponds within the fen, plus a diversity of woodland types which exhibit similarities to those of the Bure Valley. 

Extensive areas of fen vegetation have developed on flat waterlogged floodplains on peat alongside the river, and show an outstanding range of variation, including plant communities almost wholly restricted to Broadland. These species-rich fens are principally dominated by {\it Phragmites australis}, and associates include {\it Cladium mariscus, Calamagrostis canascens, Lysimachia vulgaris, Lythrum salicaria, Valeriana officinalis, Iris pseudacorus, Rumex hydrolapathum} and a large population of the {\it Peucedanum palustre} (nationally scarce*). Associated with these, is a diverse understorey of {\it Juncus subnodulosus, Potentilla palustris} and {\it Molinia caerulea}, together with a variety of herbs such as {\it Galium palustre, Mentha aquatica} and occasional {\it Epipactis palustris}.

Within this tall-fen community there is considerable variation, and several distinct vegetation types can be recognised. Fairly extensive areas are managed as commercial sedge-beds cut on a three to four year rotation so that {\it Cladium mariscus} has attained prominence. {\it Schoenus nigricans} is an important component of the understorey throughout much of the cut areas, and in derelict mowing-marshes, woody species such as {\it Myrica gale}, have invaded the open fen. Ferns are especially abundant and include {\it Osmunda regalis}, the uncommon {\it Thelypteris palustris} (nationally scarce*) and populations of the nationally rare** {\it Dryopteris cristata}. In contrast, wetter areas remain as unmown primary fen, often developed as a floating mat of vegetation which has colonised open water, as at Sutton Broad. {\it Carex pseudocyperus, Ranunculus lingua} and {\it Carex lasiocarpa}, are all markedly more frequent here than in other fen areas, and particularly notable species include {\it Sium latifolium, Cicuta virosa} and {\it Carex appropinquata} (all nationally scarce*).

An interesting community occurs along the edge of the fens where they back onto the valley slopes of the adjoining upland. Here, {\it Molinia caerulea} is generally dominant with frequent {\it Cirsium dissectum} and {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Nardus stricta} and {\it Potentilla erecta}.

Small pools and stands of mire vegetation occur in shallow depressions as an intimate mosaic within the tall fen, and are largely associated with nineteenth century peat-diggings and turf ponds. Such areas are relatively isolated from the influence of nutrient-rich river water and support a number of plant communities not found elsewhere in Broadland. The numerous permanent pools attest to the high water levels throughout the year, and support a diversity of aquatic plants including the local species: {\it Baldellia ranunculoides, Potamogeton coloratus} (nationally scarce*), {\it Hypericum elodes} and three species of {\it Utricularia}. 

Hydroseral succession has resulted in the development of particularly species rich communities in old turf-ponds, characterised by {\it Carex lasiocarpa, C. rostrata} and the notable {\it C. diandra} over a carpet of bryophytes such as the uncommon mosses {\it Cinclidium stygium} and {\it Scorpidium scorpiodes}. Other species present include {\it Eriophorum angustifolium, Menyanthes trifoliata, Parnassia palustris, Drosera anglica, Carex limosa, Dactylorhiza incarnata, Pedicularis palustris} and the notable {\it Dactylorhiza traunsteineri} (nationally scarce*). The nationally rare** {\it Liparis loeselii} also grows here at one of its few British stations.

A network of species-rich dykes support an abundance of aquatic plants, including {\it Hydrocharis morsus-ranae, Hottonia palustris, Myriophyllum spicatum} and the local Broadland species, {\it Stratiotes aloides} (nationally scarce*).

*Nationally scarce species are those occurring in between 16 and 100 10 km squares in Britain (D.A. Pearman {\it et al} (1994), 'Scarce Plants in Britain').

**Nationally rare species are those occurring in 15 or few 10 km squares in Britain.

MANAGE:
There is no specific information on the management of the common. The SSSI as a whole supports fairly extensive areas of commercial sedge-beds cut on a three to four year rotation, derelict mowing-marshes and wetter areas which remain as unmown primary fen. Small pools and stands of mire vegetation occur in shallow depressions and are largely associated with nineteenth century peat-diggings and turf ponds.


FAUNA:
Please see under the entry for CL352 for a description of the fauna of the SSSI within which this common lies.

VEG:
At the time of the 1982 Phase 1 survey this common supported a large area of swamp or tall fen vegetation with marginal woodland, a small area of unimproved acid grassland on the outer margin of the fen and an area of standing open water. For a description of the vegetation of the SSSI, please see under the entry for CL352.

MANAGE:
There is no specific information relating to the management of this common but please see under the entry for CL352 for a brief description of the management of the SSSI.


FAUNA:
The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

The whole of the North Norfolk coast is of great ornithological interest with nationally and internationally important breeding colonies of several species. The geographical position of the North Norfolk Coast and its range of habitats make it especially valuable for migratory birds and wintering waterfowl, particularly Brent and Pink-footed geese. The intertidal sands and muds provide valuable feeding grounds for wintering ducks and geese. The mudflats also have locally abundant concentrations of invertebrates of importance as wildfowl and wader food sources. Secondary mixed woodland and scrub have developed on the landward side of the planted pines at Holkham which provide valuable cover for migratory passerine birds. Natural brackish lagoons are present at Holme and in the Cley-Salthouse area. In addition, artificial lagoons have been created at Titchwell and Cley. The shallow water, and an abundant invertebrate fauna in the mud, make these coastal lagoons important feeding sites for wintering and passage waders and waterfowl. Many of the reedbeds are managed to provide the conditions favoured by rare breeding birds. Extensive areas of permanent grazing marsh derived from reclaimed saltmarsh are present in several places along the coast. The wet, rough grassland is suitable breeding habitat for several species of wader and is a valuable feeding area for wintering wildfowl. A number of relict saltmarsh creeks on the marshes have developed into brackish reedbeds of considerable ornithological importance. 

Of the breeding birds, most noteworthy are breeding colonies totalling up to 4,500 pairs of Sandwich Terns which represent about 1/l2th of the world population. The largest colony of Little Terns in Western Europe is located on Blakeney Point. On the North Norfolk Coast as a whole, there are up to 400 pairs of Little Terns which constitute over 2090 of the British population. Bird species with breeding populations of national importance include up to 1,000 pairs of Common Terns, 27 pairs (in 1982) of Avocets and up to 100 pairs of Bearded Tits. Bitterns and Marsh Harriers are regular breeders in small numbers and Garganey and Black-Tailed Godwit breed on occasions.

Migratory birds, notably waders and passerines are often present in great abundance in the spring and autumn. Wintering birds include large numbers of Brent Geese and smaller numbers of Pink-footed Geese and White-fronted Geese. Ducks and waders are also present in great abundance on the marshes and intertidal areas. The shingle banks and foreshore provide suitable habitats for wintering passerines such as Twite, Snow Buntings and Shore Larks. 

The Natterjack Toad, a rare amphibian in Britain, breeds in shallow pools in the dune slacks at two sites on the coast. 

Red Squirrels occurred in the dune pine woods until 1981 at Holkham. Otters breed and hunt within the whole site.

A total of 86 species of breeding birds were recorded from the SSSI in 1987 including the additional species Montagu's harrier, water rail, little ringed and ringed plovers, lapwing, snipe, redshank, arctic tern, tawny owl, skylark, meadow pipit, stonechat, wheatear, sedge warbler, reed warbler, tree sparrow, linnet, redpoll, crossbill, parrot crossbill and reed and corn buntings.

The site also supports internationally important numbers of knot, wigeon, nationally important wintering numbers of European white-fronted geese, pintail, shelduck, grey and ringed plovers, oystercatcher and redshank and nationally important breeding populations of rare species, including gadwall, shoveler, garganey, black-tailed godwit, bearded tit and parrot crossbill (SPA listing).

VEG:
CL65 is the largest of a series of adjoining commons on the North Norfolk coast (and the largest in Norfolk) which lie within the North Norfolk Coast SSSI. The common includes Scolt Head Island, an important offshore shingle bank. The following description is reproduced from the SSSI citation.

The North Norfolk marshland Coast extends for some 40 kms. between Hunstanton and Weybourne. The area consists primarily of intertidal sands and muds, saltmarshes, shingle banks and sand dunes. There are extensive areas of brackish lagoons, reedbeds and grazing marshes. The coast is of great physiographic interest and the shingle spit at Blakeney Point and the offshore shingle bank at Scolt Head Island are of special importance. The whole coast has been intensively studied and is well documented.

A wide range of coastal plant communities is represented and many rare or local species occur. The area, much of which remains in its natural state, now constitutes one of the largest expanses of undeveloped coastal habitat of its type in Europe.

Intertidal Sands and Muds

Extensive intertidal areas are present along the entire coast. Intertidal flats mostly consist of sand or mud and shingle and are unvegetated. Some mudbanks have seasonal growths of {\it Zostera marina} and green algae (mostly {\it Enteromorpha} sp. and {\it Vaucheria} sp.) which provide valuable feeding grounds for wintering ducks and geese. 

Saltmarsh 

The saltmarshes are the finest coastal marshes in Britain and among the best in Europe. They have accreted in sheltered positions either behind sand bars such as on Scolt Head or on sheltered parts of the coast as at Stiffkey. Differences in marsh height reflect differences in age. The saltmarsh flora is exceptionally diverse and includes a number of uncommon species.

Succession is clearly shown from scarcely vegetated mud at the seaward boundary of the marsh to maritime grassland on the upper marsh. The foremarsh is characterised by colonising species such as {\it Salicornia} spp. and {\it Spartina anglica}. {\it Aster tripolium} is often dominant on the lower marsh which in turn grades into the extensive areas of midmarsh. {\it Limonium vulgare} is dominant with {\it Halimione portulacoides} lining the banks of the creeks. Other species occurring in this zone include {\it Plantago maritima, Triglochin maritima, Suaeda maritima} and {\it Seriphidium maritima}. The upper saltmarsh is characterised by grasses such as {\it Elytrigia atherica} and {\it Puccinellia maritima}. A shorter vegetation is often found on the upper marsh near the saltmarsh-shingle interface. It is diverse and includes two rare species; {\it Limonium bellidifolium} (nationally rare*) and {\it Frankenia laevis} (nationally scarce**).

The saltmarshes, with their associated shingle structures, form a geomorphological unit of the highest importance for tracing the post glacial evolution of the area. 

Dunes 

Dune systems occur at a number of localities along the coast but are best developed at Holme and Holkham. On Scolt Head Island and at Blakeney Point sand dunes have developed on a shingle base. The stabilised, mature dunes hold a rich flora including a number of uncommon halophytic (salt tolerant) species. 

The foredunes are generally comprised of wind-blown sand with scattered plants of the primary colonising species {\it Elytrigia juncea} and {\it Leymus arenarius}. Ephemeral species such as {\it Cakile maritima} and {\it Salsola kali} also occur in this zone. The yellow dunes are further consolidated by the binding rhizomes of {\it Ammophila arenaria} and several other species occur including {\it Eryngium maritimum, Honkenya peploides} and {\it Carex arenaria}. The vegetation is most diverse on the stable grey dunes. {\it Ammophila arenaria} is still abundant but {\it Festuca rubra} is often co-dominant. The calcareous nature of the dunes is revealed by the presence of such species as {\it Erophila verna} agg., {\it Centaurium erythraea, Lotus corniculatus, Anacamptis pyramidalis} and {\it Ophrys apifera}. Two rare plants (both nationally rare*), {\it Gnaphalium luteo-album} and {\it Corynephorus canescens} are associated with the grey dunes.

{\it Pinus nigra} var. {\it maritima} has been planted at Holkham to stabilize the dunes, and has spread through self-seeding. {\it Goodyera repens} (nationally scarce**) and {\it Monotropa hypopitys} occur locally under the mature pines. Secondary mixed woodland and scrub have developed on the landward side of the pines.

Dune slacks are present behind the main dune systems at Holme and Holkham. These wet areas have a characteristic flora that includes {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Epipactis palustris} and {\it Dactylorhiza praetermissa}.

Shingle

The North Norfolk Coast is rich in shingle structures consisting of material derived and re-worked from glacial drift. Scolt Head Island is an extensive offshore barrier island with a complex sequence of shingle ridges and dunes and is of the highest national importance as a geomorphological site, and Blakeney Point is a large shingle spit; both are important educational and research sites, that have been well studied and feature extensively in the literature.

The shingle banks are colonised by a variety of specialised plants. Characteristic species include {\it Sedum acre, Armeria maritima, Silene maritima, Glaucium flavum, Honkenya peploides, Beta vulgaris} ssp. {\it maritima} and {\it Lotus corniculatus}. At the saltmarsh-shingle interface, a discrete community occurs including {\it Suaeda vera} (nationally scarce**), an uncommon species in Britain, which is often abundant here with {\it Limonium binervosum} and {\it Seriphidium maritima}.

Brackish Lagoons and Reedbeds.

Natural brackish lagoons are present at Holme and in the Cley-Salthouse area. In addition, artificial lagoons have been created at Titchwell and Cley. 

Extensive reedbeds have developed at Cley, Brancaster and Titchwell: here {\it Phragmites australis} is dominant with {\it Juncus gerardii, Ranunculus baudotii, Bolboschoenus maritimus} and {\it Typha latifolia}.

Maritime Pasture and Grazing Marsh

Maritime pasture is present on the Cley and Salthouse Marshes (not common land), where several plants characteristic of damp grazed areas occur including {\it Alopecurus geniculatus, Polypogon monspeliensis} (nationally scarce**), {\it Juncus articulatus} and {\it Potentilla anserina}.

Extensive areas of permanent grazing marsh derived from reclaimed saltmarsh are present in several places along the coast. The dominant grass species in the sward are {\it Agrostis stolonifera, Alopecurus pratensis} and {\it Lolium perenne}. 

A number of relict saltmarsh creeks on the marshes have developed into brackish reedbeds of considerable ornithological importance. The grazing marsh at Holkham was reclaimed in the l7th and l8th centuries. A network of clear water dykes is present with a variety of marginal plants including {\it Phragmites australis, Ranunculus flammula, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Lycopus europaeus}. Amongst several interesting species of water plant recorded are the uncommon {\it Ceratophyllum submersum} and {\it Potamogeton obtusifolius}. A fringe of dry grassland is present above the saltmarsh at Holkham and is annually mown and occasionally grazed.

Scolt Head Island was included in the National Sand Dune Vegetation Survey (Site report No. 71, Scolt Head Island Dunes, 1989). The following information is reproduced from that survey and also the habitat map.

Scolt Head Island is the largest and most typical British example of the offshore island type of dune system. It consists of a series of dune ridges over shingle extending for approximately 6 kilometres in an east-west direction. A series of recurved lateral shingle ridges project into extensive saltmarshes on their lee side. The saltmarshes become inundated completely during spring tides. The island is separated from the mainland by a comparatively narrow tidal channel. Its historic importance as one of the sites where ecological study was initiated and from where there has been a long history of biological and geomorphological recording adds to its intrinsic scientific value. It is highly dynamic, with areas of active accretion and erosion. Its isolation and comparative lack of past and present exploitation mean that it is one of the most truly natural features remaining on the coastline of England. 

Towards the eastern end, the main ridge was breached by storms in 1953. This and subsequent storms have destroyed the dunes over a length of approximately lkm., exposing the underlying shingle. Storm waves have washed through onto the saltmarsh beyond, inundating it with sand. Pioneer dune vegetation is re-establishing itself in this zone. The front of the main dune ridge is eroding for some distance on either side of the breakthrough, rapidly so in the area of the Norton Hills. Layers of intertidal mud, some containing the remains of saltmarsh plants, can be seen weathering out on the beach on the seaward side of the breakthrough. This would appear to confirm the impression, gained from trying to fit modern aerial photographs to the 1:10,560 map, that this section of the main ridge has retreated bodily towards the mainland.

The vegetation of the island consists of sand dune, shingle and saltmarsh communities. The latter two types were sampled where they contained a significant amount of sand. Sparse strandline associations dominated by {\it Honckenya peploides} (SD2) occur most notably at the prograding western end of the island. Along most of the length of the main dune ridge, with the exception of those areas that are actively eroding, the vegetation closest to the sea comprises foredune of {\it Elytrigia juncea} (SD4) or {\it E. juncea} with {\it Ammophila arenaria} (SD6a). Behind this, the main foredune ridge rises with its open or closed swards dominated by {\it A. arenaria, Elytrigia atherica} and {\it Festuca rubra} (SD6e). {\it Poa pratensis} is important in some stands (SD6f). Associated species which may be prominent in the foredunes include {\it Carex arenaria, Hypochaeris radicata, Senecio jacobaea, Eryngium maritimum, Calystegia soldanella, Lactuca virosa} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}. In some of the more mature areas of dune grassland {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} becomes prominent.

A lower and more open vegetation sometimes occurs towards the back of the foredunes. It is marked by the presence of a diversity of annual species such as {\it Phleum arenarium, Valerianella locusta, Myosotis ramosissima, Aira praecox, Erophila verna, Cerastium semidecandrum} and {\it C. diffusum} (SD7b). {\it Elytrigia atherica} often co-exists with the annuals (SD7b/e) and occasionally becomes dominant to form a tall, species-poor sward (SD7e). Also of local occurrence here are various stands of scrub, notably those dominated by {\it Ligustrum vulgare, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and the introduced {\it Rosa rugosa}. This species was introduced to the House Hills in the 1920's, where it is still most abundant. However, it has spread considerably since then and is now to be found over a stretch of several kilometres of foredune between the hut and the washover.

Another major dune formation occurs on older and more stable areas of dune, where {\it Carex arenaria} is dominant with a suite of associated mosses and lichens (SDlla). There is a particularly fine sequence of dune communities on the Norton Hills which runs through from pioneer dunes to extensive and well developed stands of this type.

The remaining types of dune vegetation are comparatively unimportant in terms of area but include scrub of {\it Ulex europaeus}, a small area of neutral grassland dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} around the hut and a small grove of {\it Populus alba} close to the site of the abandoned building on House Hills. There are no dune slacks on the island and the only wetland is a small pond on the House Hills.

A particular feature of Scolt Head Island is the combination of dune and saltmarsh. Usually the lower limit of dune vegetation on the lee side of the system is well marked by a belt of {\it Suaeda vera} (nationally scarce**) (SM25). Where this is absent the transition to saltmarsh is more subtle; vegetation dominated by {\it E. atherica} with associated upper saltmarsh species such as {\it Cochlearia danica} and {\it Seriphidium maritima} may be present (SM24). Elsewhere there are associations on shingly substrates including {\it S. vera} (nationally scarce**), {\it Limonium binervosum} and {\it Frankenia laevis} (nationally scarce**) (SM21.2) and some communities which appear to be outside the scope of the NVC framework.

The dunes at Scolt contain one formerly nationally scarce species, {\it Euphorbia paralias}, which was locally frequent. Four other rare species were found however at the sand dune-upper saltmarsh transition. These were {\it Limonium bellidifolium}, a Red Data Book species (nationally rare*), and three national scarcities**: {\it Suaeda vera, Limonium binervosum} and {\it Frankenia laevis} ({\it L. binervosum} is no longer nationally scarce). All were well-represented, occurring together in the SM21.2 stands.

The remains of an old dune system, a precursor to Scolt Head Island, lie in the saltmarsh on the mainland side of Norton Creek. It is fragmented, much eroded and encroached upon by saltmarsh vegetation.

*Nationally rare species are those occurring in 15 or few 10 km squares in Britain.

**Nationally scarce species are those occurring in between 16 and 100 10 km squares in Britain (D.A. Pearman {\it et al} (1994), 'Scarce Plants in Britain')

MANAGE:
Most of the SSSI is managed for nature conservation by the National Trust, the Norfolk Naturalists' Trust, Norfolk Ornithologists Association, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and English Nature. 

The following information is reproduced from the National Sand Dune Vegetation Survey:

Scolt Head island as a whole appears to suffer little from the effects of the few visitors it receives; there is only slight erosion and a minimal trampling effect in the vicinity of the huts (the steep eroding faces of the Long Hills and the Norton Hills coast are probably part of the natural cycles of erosion and accretion present on the island).

At the time of survey, rabbit grazing, although only of local significance, was still able to maintain sward diversity within the dunes. However, the spread of large amounts of scrub and the considerable areas of rank grassland, especially evident if compared to old photographs (Allinson & Morley 1989), indicate that grazing levels have fallen. A particular cause for concern is the spread of {\it Rosa rugosa} which is especially invasive. This has increased its range dramatically in recent years and is continuing to do so (S. Woodell, pers.comm).

Management policy for the Scolt dunes needs to be very carefully thought out and "standard" solutions applicable to mainland sites are not automatically appropriate to a site with such a high degree of naturalness. There should be a general presumption against intervention and any exceptions to this policy should be carefully thought out. There is probably a good case for resisting the further spread of the alien {\it Rosa rugosa}. It is less obvious what should be done about grazing. A first step might be to monitor those communities that are most likely to deteriorate through lack of grazing, SD7b and SDlla for example. If the loss of species is then judged to be unacceptable, consideration should be given to ways of increasing the level of grazing. Research into the past use of Scolt Head would be desirable in order to see whether there has been any history of stock grazing*. Ideally any new grazing scheme should attempt to mimic traditional forms of land use. An obvious possibility for Scolt would be to explore ways of increasing the rabbit population.

The island is a National Trust property which is leased to the NCC and managed as a National Nature Reserve. 

*There are grazing rights on the common but these may only relate to part of the area.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chaffinch, house sparrow, yellowhammer. Evidence of rabbit grazing was seen in the area north of the access track.

VEG:
The semi-improved acid grassland to the north of the fenced access track to Harpur's Green Farm was viewed through binoculars only. It appears to be dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris}, with frequent {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne, Achillea millefolium, Centaurea nigra, Prunella vulgaris, Plantago lanceolata} and {\it Senecio jacobaea}. There is frequent scattered {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. scrub with occasional {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rosa} sp. {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Phleum pratense} and {\it Vicia} sp. (looks like {\it V. cracca}) are frequent around the edges of the scrub.

On the southern side of the track, there is an area of rank grassland dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Anthriscus sylvestris, Centaurea nigra, Torilis japonica} and {\it Urtica dioica} and frequent scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior} (saplings) and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. The rank grassland grades into {\it Chamerion angustifolium} dominated tall ruderal vegetation at the western end of this area.  

The common is bounded by dense, scrubby hedgerows (up to about 8m wide and 6m high) dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus robur} and {\it Rosa} sp. The {\it F. excelsior} and {\it Q. robur} trees are mostly semi-mature with some saplings. Some of the older trees appear to have been coppiced at an early stage in their growth.

MANAGE:
Used for grazing, except the area south of the access track. The dense, scrubby hedgerows provide a good area of cover for birds and small mammals in a predominantly open, arable landscape.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, carrion crow, chaffinch, house sparrow, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Several small blue, large white and small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen.

VEG:
Only the southern half of the common was surveyed on foot. The improved grassland is mostly a mixture of {\it Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Lolium perenne} with locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Bellis perennis} and {\it Ranunculus acris}. The area recorded as semi-improved neutral grassland at the southern end is wetter than the surrounding land and also contains frequent {\it Carex} sp., {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Centaurea nigra} plus occasional {\it Lotus pedunculatus}. 

The common is bounded by wide, scrubby hedgerows dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with locally frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus}. 

Several ponds adjoin the CL boundary; 4 were surveyed. Pond 1 (TF953210) is fringed with abundant {\it Mentha aquatica} and {\it Veronica beccabunga} and partly shaded by overhanging {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Salix fragilis} on its southern side. 

Pond 2 (TF954209) contains abundant {\it Nymphaea alba} and is fringed with stands of {\it Iris pseudacorus}. The bank supports stands of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Urtica dioica} with occasional {\it Kniphofia} sp. 

Pond 3 just to the north is fringed with occasional {\it Juncus inflexus} and shaded by surrounding {\it Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Salix} sp.

Pond 4 (TF955215) contains abundant {\it Potamogeton crispus} and is fringed with {\it Juncus inflexus}. The bank is mostly short grass with scattered {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Salix} sp.

MANAGE:
Used for cattle grazing. The common is the subject of a Countryside Stewardship application. The wide, scrubby hedgerows provide a good area of cover for birds and small mammals.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, house sparrow. Several large white butterflies were seen.

VEG:
The common was viewed from the northern boundary fence only. The central area contains dense {\it Glyceria maxima} interspersed with occasional {\it Iris pseudacorus} and scattered patches (too small to map) of {\it Cirsium arvense, Urtica dioica} and short grassland. The swamp vegetation is fringed on its northern side with dense stands of {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Conium maculatum} and {\it Galeopsis tetrahit} (this continues on the north side of the path onto the riverbank). On slightly higher ground on its southern side, there is what appears to be short, poor semi-improved grassland with scattered trees and scrub ({\it Crataegus monogyna, Salix} sp., {\it Ulex europaeus, Betula} sp. and {\it Quercus robur}).

MANAGE:
Used for cattle and horse grazing, enclosed with wire fencing.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, house sparrow. Several large white and small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen.

VEG:
The lower sections of the common adjoining the River Wensum contain dense stands of {\it Glyceria maxima} with frequent {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Phragmites australis}, fringed with scattered scrub ({\it Salix} spp.) and {\it Alnus glutinosa}. Within 50m of the riverbank (on the south side), there is scattered {\it Carex paniculata} (tussocks are up to 1m high). Along the riverbanks, there are dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Conium maculatum} and {\it Phalaris arundinacea}.

The southern-most section, between the disused railway line and a minor public road, is situated on a gentle slope above the floodplain. It appears to contain short, poor semi-improved grassland with scattered patches of {\it Iris pseudacorus, Rumex obtusifolius} and {\it Urtica dioica} and scattered scrub ({\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Ulex europaeus}). This section was viewed fom the southern boundary, where there is a {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated hedgerow (2 to 3m high and wide) with mature standard {\it Quercus robur}.

MANAGE:
The southernmost section is used for grazing. The two remaining sections adjoning the river appear to be ungrazed.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, carrion crow, house sparrow, yellowhammer.

VEG:
The northern end of the wood is dominated by mature standard {\it Quercus robur} with scattered {\it Sorbus aucuparia} saplings and scattered {\it Ilex aquifolium}. The ground flora in this area is dominated by dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.

Moving south, the {\it Q. robur} dominated woodland gives way to {\it Betula pubescens} dominated woodland with scattered {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. There is a mixture of very old and young trees - the latter form dense stands in places. Much {\it Betula} deadwood has been left {\it in situ}; this supports the birch polypore fungus {\it Piptoporus betulinus}. The ground flora in this area is dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. plus occasional {\it Molinia caerulea, Sphagnum recurvum} and {\it Thuidium tamariscinum}. 

In the southern quarter of the common, the {\it Betula} dominated woodland gives way to old {\it Alnus glutinosa} coppice with occasional {\it Salix fragilis} and an understorey of scattered {\it Corylus avellana} with occasional {\it Prunus padus}. Where the ground is saturated, there is a mixture of {\it Phalaris arundinacea, Carex riparia} and {\it Phragmites australis} with occasional {\it Glyceria maxima, Angelica sylvestris, Caltha palustris, Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Sphagnum recurvum}. Drier areas support abundant {\it Glechoma hederacea} with frequent {\it Galium aparine} and occasional {\it Alliaria petiolata} and {\it Ranunculus ficaria}. There is a dense covering of bryophytes around the tree trunks; species recorded include {\it Aulacomnium palustre, Plagiomnium affine, P. undulatum} and {\it Thuidium tamariscinum}. 

Along the southern edge of the common, there is an area of {\it Salix} spp. dominated scrub with scattered {\it Corylus avellana}, which encloses a small area of swamp dominated by {\it Phragmites australis} with frequent {\it Phalaris arundinacea}.   

The CWS entry describes the woodland as dominated by {\it Betula pendula} with an understorey of young {\it B. pendula, Q. robur} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} with scattered {\it Sambucus nigra}. Frequent {\it Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica} are also noted in the area of {\it Salix cinerea} scrub with a few scattered young {\it Q. robur, B. pendula} and {\it Sambucus nigra}.

MANAGE:
Most of the {\it Alnus glutinosa} was coppiced at an early stage in its growth, this is now all mature. No contemporary management apparent. 
Standing and fallen deadwood has been left {\it in situ}; if any management is resumed on the common, it would be desirable to allow this to continue.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, chiffchaff, cuckoo, house sparrow, pied wagtail, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. The following were also noted: several rabbits and common frogs, domestic cat.

VEG:
The woodland is mostly situated in the eastern half of the common. It is dominated by {\it Quercus robur} with frequent {\it Betula pendula} and occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. The ground is mostly covered with leaf litter, but there is scattered {\it Dryopteris dilatata, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Ranunculus ficaria}. The woodland is fringed with and borders areas of dense and scattered scrub ({\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Salix} spp., {\it Ulex europaeus}), tall herb vegetation ({\it Chamerion angustifolium, Reynoutria japonica, Urtica dioica}) and acid grassland. The acid grassland is dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} with locally frequent {\it Rumex acetosella}. In places it is so heavily rabbit grazed that it has developed into a carpet of {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus. Betula pendula} and {\it Q. robur} trees of various ages are scattered across the more open areas of the common; in the western quarter, there is also scattered {\it Fraxinus excelsior} (old coppice trees).

The common contains a number of ponds and areas of saturated ground. The latter is situated in the northern quarter and supports dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} with frequent {\it Urtica dioica} and scattered {\it Cirsium palustre} and {\it Caltha palustris} (recorded as C31), interspersed with areas of standing water (too small to map) which contain {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica, Juncus effusus, Persicaria amphibia, Ranunculus flammula} and {\it Solanum dulcamara} plus occasional {\it Typha latifolia}.

The largest pond on the common (TF82252795) is surrounded by {\it Salix} sp. scrub and is fringed with frequent {\it Juncus effusus, Alisma plantago-aquatica, Glyceria fluitans} and {\it Solanum dulcamara}. The two small ponds along the footpath just north of this contain occasional {\it Callitriche} sp. and {\it Persicaria amphibia} and are fringed with {\it Juncus effusus, Caltha palustris, Epilobium hirsutum, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Typha latifolia}.

The other smaller ponds on the common are similar to those described above, although there are fewer species where surrounding scrub casts a heavy shade.

The following information is reproduced from the CWS review (based on the NWT 1985 habitat survey):

"The site consists of scrub over acid grassland. There are several pools and low boggy depressions across the site.

To the south the ground is slightly raised and consequently drier than elsewhere. Here scrub dominates with abundant {\it Ulex europaeus, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rosa canina} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Young trees also occur here, mainly {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Salix fragilis}. The ground flora is dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with herbs such as {\it Teucrium scorodonia} and {\it Rumex acetosella}.

To the north the site is more open with a sward of {\it Juncus} spp., {\it Carex} spp., {\it Epilobium palustre} and {\it Cardamine pratensis}. Pools support {\it Veronica beccabunga, Callitriche} spp. and emergents such as {\it Typha latifolia}."

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent livestock grazing, scrub or tree removal was seen. The overgrazing of the areas of acid grassland has probably been caused by rabbits.


FAUNA:
Small blue butterfly was recorded during the site visit. The SSSI citation mentions that several pairs of snipe nest on the marshy areas and other breeding birds include Lapwing, Sedge Warbler and Cuckoo. Active badger setts were present on the common in 1983.

VEG:
Only a brief survey of the site was carried out. The site is bisected by the River Nar which is fringed by dense {\it Glyceria maxima} extending across the valley floor. Most of the common appeared to be occupied by swamp dominated by {\it Glyceria maxima} with areas of {\it Carex paniculata} and scattered {\it Phragmites australis, Phalaris arundinacea, Salix} sp. and {\it Epilobium hirsutum}. Other species recorded include frequent {\it Caltha palustris} and {\it Angelica sylvestris}, locally abundant {\it Myosotis aquatica}, locally frequent {\it Apium nodiflorum} and {\it Potentilla palustris}, scattered {\it Cardamine pratensis} and occasional {\it Hypericum tetrapterum} and {\it Lycopus europaeus}. Abundant {\it Potentilla anserina}, frequent {\it Angelica sylvestris}, locally abundant {\it Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Glechoma hederacea}, locally frequent {\it Cirsium palustre} and {\it Pulicaria dysenterica} and occasional {\it Scrophularia aquatica} were noted in wet grassy areas along the footpath. {\it Silene vulgaris, Anisantha sterilis, Arctium} sp. and {\it Galium aparine} were recorded along the base of the mature, discontinuous hedgerow of {\it Sambucus nigra, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} along the northern boundary. Slopes along the southern side of the common supported {\it Deschampsia flexuosa/Rumex} sp. beneath {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and locally poor semi-improved grassland? with {\it Cirsium} sp.

The SSSI was subject to a Phase 1 survey by English Nature in 1983. During that survey a number of habitats were identified. The majority of the common supported a marshy grassland community dominated by {\it Carex disticha, Juncus} spp. and {\it Holcus lanatus}. Other species recorded were {\it Festuca pratensis, Carex echinata, C. paniculata, Glyceria maxima, Carex nigra, C. panicea, Juncus subnodulosus, J. effusus, J. articulatus, Equisetum palustre, E. fluviatile, Ranunculus repens, Potentilla anserina, Caltha palustris, Epilobium hirsutum, Angelica sylvestris, Berula erecta, Geum rivale, Eriophorum angustifolium, Valeriana dioica, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Ajuga reptans, Carex acutiformis, Ranunculus acris, Myosotis scorpioides, Cardamine pratensis, Mentha aquatica, Menyanthes trifoliata, Lotus pedunculatus, Cirsium palustre, Dactylorhiza incarnata, D. praetermissa, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Filipendula ulmaria, Galium uliginosum, Potentilla palustris}. This habitat was notable for the abundance of {\it Menyanthes trifoliata} and {\it Dactylorhiza} spp. {\it Equisetum palustre} was dominant in places. The SSSI citation also lists {\it Blysmus compressus, Succisa pratensis} and {\it Cirsium dissectum} from this habitat. 

There were also several areas of tall fen vegetation dominated either by {\it Phragmites australis} or {\it Glyceria maxima}. Associated species included {\it Menyanthes trifoliata, Carex acutiformis, Scrophularia auriculata, Berula erecta, Caltha palustris, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}. 

Along the southern boundary of the site were {\it Pteridium aquilinum} covered slopes with scattered scrub of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Ulex europaeus, Quercus robur} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Holcus mollis, Urtica dioica} and {\it Galium saxatile}. In this area there was also an area of dry heath/acid grassland mosaic dominated by {\it Holcus mollis, Nardus stricta} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} with {\it Galium saxatile} and scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. At the base of this slope was a band of {\it Sphagnum} sp. and {\it Polytrichum} sp. dominated vegetation with the following associated species: {\it Erica tetralix, Calluna vulgaris, Holcus mollis, Luzula campestris, Caltha palustris, Dryopteris carthusiana, Potentilla palustris, Eriophorum angustifolium, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Potentilla erecta, Juncus bulbosus, J. squarrosus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Carex paniculata, C. nigra} and {\it C. echinata}. This grades through into the marshy grassland. 

Also along the base of the bracken slopes and on higher ground were areas of wet acid grassland dominated by {\it Holcus mollis, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Potentilla erecta}. Associated species were {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Festuca ovina, Nardus stricta, Poa pratensis, Carex hirta, C. nigra, C. panicea, Achillea millefolium, Saxifraga granulata, Trifolium repens, Cirsium palustre, Galium saxatile, Juncus effusus, J. squarrosus, J. articulatus, Lotus pedunculatus, Luzula campestris, Potentilla anserina} and {\it Ranunculus repens}. 

Along the northern edge of the common was a band of damp, unimproved neutral grassland dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} with {\it Carex hirta, Juncus inflexus, Rumex acetosa, Ranunculus acris, Plantago lanceolata, Dactylorhiza praetermissa, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Potentilla reptans, P. anserina, Rhinanthus minor, Galium saxatile, Veronica chamaedrys, Luzula campestris, Cirsium palustre, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Centaurea nigra}. Against the northern boundary hedge this graded into dry neutral grassland with {\it Saxifraga granulata, Achillea millefolium, Galium verum, Reseda luteola, Geranium dissectum} and {\it Medicago lupulina}. 

The habitat map is based on the 1983 Phase 1 survey map. 

During a site monitoring visit in 1990 the site was described as "exceptionally dry...Bracken covers almost the whole of the southern slope and one patch to the east though diverse acid flush areas remain...Tall fen covers a considerable part of the site, especially the north side with much {\it Epilobium hirsutum, Filipendula}" (G. Hayes in Wheeler and Shaw, 1992).

There is a record for the nationally scarce* {\it Dactylorhiza traunsteineri} from 'Castle Acre' in 1981 (reference in Wheeler and Shaw, 1992).

The SSSI citation describes the site as the most important valley grassland site in west Norfolk due to the exceptionally diverse grassland communities. 

*A nationally scarce species is one occurring in between 16 and 100 10km squares in Britain ('Scarce Plants in Britain', D.A.Pearman {\it et al}, 1994).

MANAGE:
No management observations were made during the site visit. The citation describes the site as an area of grazing marsh but at the time of the 1983 Phase 1 survey was ungrazed. Light grazing was recommended in 1990 by Wanda Fojt. During a site monitoring visit in 1990 the site was described as "exceptionally dry... Site may be dry enough to allow some form of restoration mow prior to grazing" (G. Hayes in Wheeler and Shaw, 1992). It appears that swamp vegetation on the common has expanded, probably due to a lack of grazing. This could result in a loss in diversity across the site.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, house sparrow, woodpigeon. Several large white, peacock and small copper butterflies were seen, also 3 rabbits. Dragonflies were seen around the ponds; they are possibly large hawkers. Their movement was too fast to allow accurate identification.

VEG:
The rank grassland is dominated by tussocky {\it Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} with locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus, Poa} spp., {\it Galium aparine, Glechoma hederacea, Potentilla erecta, Ranunculus acris} and {\it R. repens} plus scattered stands of {\it Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica} and occasional {\it Galium verum}. On lower ground near the drain, the sward also contains frequent {\it Cardamine pratensis} and {\it Lotus pedunculatus} plus occasional {\it Juncus effusus, J. inflexus, Hydrocotyle vulgaris} and {\it Valeriana dioica}. The drain contains abundant {\it Apium nodiflorum} and is fringed with frequent {\it Epilobium hirsutum, Mentha aquatica, Urtica dioica} and {\it Veronica beccabunga} plus occasional {\it Carex paniculata, Caltha palustris} and {\it Scrophularia aquatica}.

In the SE quarter of the common, there are dense stands of {\it Phragmites australis} along the drain, surrounded by scattered scrub and trees ({\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Salix} spp. and young {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Quercus robur}).

The above habitats are fringed along the eastern and western boundaries of the common with stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica}, with small areas of dense {\it Prunus spinosa} dominated scrub and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

The northernmost pond (TF824159) is fringed with dense {\it Juncus effusus} plus frequent {\it Epilobium hirsutum, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Veronica beccabunga}. It is fed by a small {\it J. effusus} dominated flush to the SW which also contains frequent {\it Cardamine pratensis} and occasional {\it Carex paniculata, Caltha palustris, Scrophularia aquatica} and {\it Valeriana dioica}.

The pond at TF824157 contains abundant {\it Chara} sp. and {\it Ranunculus} sp. and is fringed with abundant {\it Juncus articulatus} plus frequent {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Mentha aquatica, Ranunculus flammula} and {\it Veronica beccabunga}. The grassland within 5m of the pond contains frequent {\it Angelica sylvestris, Caltha palustris, Equisetum palustre} and {\it Galium aparine} plus occasional {\it Carex paniculata} and {\it Eupatorium cannabinum}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, barn owl, chaffinch, chiffchaff, greylag goose, mallard, moorhen, swallow, woodpigeon, yellowhammer.

VEG:
On the river floodplain south of Mill Farm (TF830162 to 831158), most of the area of the common is occupied by dense {\it Filipendula ulmaria} with peripheral stands of {\it Urtica dioica} along the western boundary. There is also scattered {\it Angelica sylvestris, Cardamine pratensis} and {\it Cirsium palustre}. Near Mill Farm there is a small area of wet grassland dominated by {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Poa} spp. with frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Festuca} sp., {\it Glechoma hederacea, Filipendula ulmaria, Ranunculus acris, R. ficaria} and {\it Valeriana dioica} plus occasional {\it Centaurea nigra}.

On the remainder of the common, there is a mosaic swamp and tall ruderal vegetation, marshy grassland and rank grassland, all with scattered trees and scrub.

On the lowest ground along the River Nar there are extensive, dense stands of {\it Phragmites australis} dominated swamp vegetation with locally dominant {\it Glyceria maxima} and {\it Phalaris arudinacea} plus occasional {\it Carex paniculata} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}. This grades into dense stands of {\it Filipendula ulmaria} with scattered {\it Angelica sylvestris, Caltha palustris, Cirsium palustre, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Solanum dulcamara}. The tall ruderal vegetation (on slightly higher ground along the track), is dominated by {\it Urtica dioica} with locally frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, E. hirsutum, Galium aparine} and {\it Lamium album} plus occasional {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Galeopsis tetrahit}. There are also patches (mostly too small to map) of tussocky, rank grassland dominated by {\it Dactylis glomerata}, with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Centaurea nigra} plus occasional {\it Carex hirta}. 

All of the above vegetation is interspersed with scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Salix} spp. and {\it Alnus glutinosa} (saplings). At the northern end of the common, there is a small area of young broadleaved woodland dominated by {\it Populus tremula} with frequent {\it C. monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Salix} spp. plus scattered {\it Alnus glutinosa}.

MANAGE:
The area south of Mill Farm may be grazed or mown occasionally, otherwise no ongoing management apparent.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, blue tit, chiffchaff, house sparrow, jackdaw, swallow, yellowhammer. Several gatekeeper, large white and small copper butterflies were seen.

VEG:
Except for a horse grazed enclosure at the southern end of the common, the grassland was uncut and ungrazed at the time of survey. The semi-improved neutral grassland is dominated by {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Poa} spp. with abundant {\it Conopodium majus} plus locally frequent {\it Bromus hordeaceus, Carex hirta, Cynosurus cristatus, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne, Centaurea nigra, Hypochaeris radicata, Lotus corniculatus, Medicago lupulina, Plantago lanceolata, Rumex acetosa, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Trifolium pratense, T. repens, Veronica chamaedrys} and {\it Vicia sativa} plus occasional {\it Saxifraga granulata}. There are also scattered patches (too small to map) of acid grassland on a low embankment along the eastern boundary. These are dominated by {\it Festuca} sp. with frequent {\it Pilosella officinarum, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} and {\it Rumex acetosa}.

MANAGE:
An enclosure at the southern end of the common is used for horse grazing. The remaining area may be cut for hay. Grazing may take place during the autumn or overwinter. It would be desirable to retain the remaining area of semi-improved neutral grassland by avoiding the use of (for example) fertilizers an herbicides.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, house sparrow, woodpigeon, yellowhammer.

VEG:
The canopy is dominated by {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Quercus robur} with locally frequent {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and occasional {\it Betula pendula, Fagus sylvatica} (very old standards), {\it Malus} sp., {\it Populus tremula, Quercus cerris} and {\it Ulmus glabra}. There is good regeneration of {\it A. pseudoplatanus} and {\it F. excelsior}. There is an understorey of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra} with occasional {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Prunus spinosa} and locally abundant {\it Lonicera periclymenum}; in places this extends up tree trunks well above the level of the understorey.

The ground is covered with leaf litter interspersed with dense stands of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Along the SW boundary, there are dense stands of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Other ground flora species recorded include locally abundant {\it Ranunculus ficaria} and {\it Stellaria holostea} with locally frequent {\it Holcus mollis, Alliaria petiolata, Geum urbanum, Lamium album} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys} plus occasional {\it Carex sylvatica, Deschampsia cespitosa, Juncus effusus, Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Poa nemoralis}.

On the southern side of the woodland, there is an area of rank grassland dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with abundant {\it Holcus lanatus} and locally frequent {\it Agrostis} sp., {\it Calamagrostis} sp., {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Dactylis glomerata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Chamerion angustifolium, Epilobium hirsutum, Heracleum sphondylium, Leontodon autumnalis, Medicago lupulina, Trifolium pratense, T. repens, Urtica dioica, Vicia hirsuta} and {\it V. sativa}, plus occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Carex otrubae, Juncus inflexus, Cirsium arvense, C. palustre, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Hypericum perforatum, Picris echioides} and {\it Boletus} sp. There is also scattered scrub: {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Salix cinerea}.

MANAGE:
The common appears to be ungrazed; it is likely that grazing rights are not being exercised. No evidence of recent felling of coppicing was seen. Some deadwood has been left {\it in situ} and it would be desirable for this practice to continue.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, jackdaw, magpie, mallard, woodpigeon. Several orange tip butterflies seen.

VEG:
The sward is a mixture of {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne} and {\it Poa} spp. with locally frequent {\it Achillea millefolium, Bellis perennis, Cirsium arvense, Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Trifolium repens} plus occasional {\it Geranium dissectum, Rumex obtusifolius} and {\it Vicia sativa}. Those areas recorded as poor semi-improved grassland also contain frequent {\it Conopodium majus}. There are occasional wet depressions (too small to map) which contain abundant {\it Glyceria fluitans} and scattered clumps of {\it Juncus effusus}.

The drain which crosses the southern half of the common contains {\it Apium nodiflorum, Glyceria fluitans, Juncus effusus} and {\it Juncus inflexus}. The banks support all the grassland species mentioned above, also frequent {\it Carex hirta, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys} plus occasional {\it Bromus hordeaceus} and {\it Trifolium pratense}. 

The pond in the eastern end of the common (TF641155) is fringed with {\it Typha latifolia} and scattered clumps of {\it Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Juncus effusus}. 

In the northernmost area of the common, there are areas of tall herb vegetation ({\it Cirsium arvense, Urtica dioica}), dense scrub ({\it Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus} agg.) and young broadleaved woodland dominated by {\it Betula pendula} with scattered {\it Quercus robur}.

MANAGE:
Mostly managed as improved grassland. Used for cattle grazing. A limited attempt has been made at re-seeding the sward in the southern half of the common, just south of Manor cottages.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, jackdaw, woodpigeon.

VEG:
The common was viewed from the road only, using binoculars. It is divided into 2 by an E-W internal fence about 300m S. of the road. North of the fence, there is short, cattle grazed improved grassland. South of the fence, abundant {\it Ranunculus} sp. (probably {\it R. acris}) and frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris} is visible in the sward. This area has been recorded as poor semi-improved (B6); ideally, on-site survey is needed to verify this.

MANAGE:
Improved and poor semi-improved grassland used for cattle grazing.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chaffinch, house sparrow, pied wagtail. Several large white butterflies and 1 rabbit were seen.

VEG:
The common was viewed from the road only, using binoculars. The poor semi-improved grassland contains scattered tussocks of {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and occasional {\it Juncus effusus}. All areas of grassland contain scattered {\it Urtica dioica}. At TF870293, there is a small pond site which contains dense stands of {\it Juncus effusus}; no standing water was seen. Along the stream on the western side of the common, there are young {\it Alnus glutinosa} trees with occasional {\it Salix} sp. The banks are covered with dense {\it Urtica dioica}. 

Between the improved grassland and the arable field, there is a small area of {\it Ulmus} sp. plantation.

At the southern end of the common, there is a small area of dense {\it Salix} sp. scrub (appears to be {\it S. viminalis}) which looks as if it has regrown following coppicing.

Surveyor left above notes but no habitat map. Map herewith indicates only boundaries of the unit and lists the habitats present.

MANAGE:
Used for intensive sheep grazing, with a small area of arable land.


VEG:
Under the canopy of the pine platation, there is very little groundflora apart from scattered {\it Dryopteris dilatata}. Near the edges of the canopy, there is scattered {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}. Scattered {\it Quercus robur} occurs in the eastern half of the plantation. There is a small {\it Populus} sp. plantation with a ground flora of abundant {\it Glechoma hederacea} plus frequent {\it Holcus mollis, Geum urbanum} and {\it Silene dioica} and occasional {\it Rumex obtusifolius}.

There is an area of {\it Urtica dioica}-dominated tall herb vegetation with frequent {\it Lamium album} and scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rosa} sp.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent planting or tree removal was seen.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, pheasant, robin.

VEG:
The woodland is dominated by {\it Betula pubescens} and {\it Quercus robur} with occasional {\it Alnus glutinosa, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. The trees generally have a spindly appearance with high crowns, except along the edges of the canopy. The oldest {\it Betula} trees have trunk diameters in the range 10 to 15cm at chest height (ACH) and the oldest {\it Q. robur} in the range 20 to 25cm ACH (except for one tree which had a trunk diameter of about 80cm ACH). Some {\it Betula} trees appear to have been coppiced at an early stage in their growth. There is some regeneration of {\it Q. robur}; there are scattered spindly saplings but few semi-mature trees. Much standing and fallen deadwood has been left {\it in situ}; dead {\it Betula} trunks support {\it Piptoporus betulinus}. Occasional pools of stagnant standing water in the central area of the common are fringed with {\it Solanum dulcamara} and {\it Salix} sp.

The ground is covered with a thick layer of leaf litter interspersed with scattered patches of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and occasional {\it Ceratocapnos claviculata, Dryopteris dilatata, Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum} and {\it Hedera helix. Mnium hornum} is frequent around the bases of tree trunks and on fallen deadwood. In the western quarter of the common, there are small clearings which are occupied by dense stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

Along the northern edge of the canopy, there is a discontinuous scrubby hedgerow dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} with locally abundant {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Under the canopy, leaf litter is interspersed with patches of {\it Galium aparine, Geranium robertianum, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Hedera helix}.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent livestock grazing, coppicing, felling or planting was seen. For the benefit of wildlife, it would be desirable to continue the practice of leaving standing and fallen deadwood {\it in situ}.


VEG:
Along the roadside, at the edge of the field, there is a strip of rank grass/tall herb vegetation about 2 to 3m wide. Species recorded include abundant {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Holcus lanatus, Achillea millefolium, Anisantha sterilis, Anthriscus sylvestris, Malva sylvestris, Silene dioica} and {\it Silene vulgaris} plus occasional {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Sambucus nigra}. There appear to be similar narrow strips of rank grass/tall herb vegetation along the other edges of the field.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: grey partridge, yellowhammer.

VEG:
The scrub is dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} with abundant {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and scattered {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ulex europaeus} plus occasional {\it Cytisus scoparius}. There are also scattered young trees ({\it Betula pendula, Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior}). The scrub is interspersed with patches of tall herb vegetation dominated by {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium} with locally frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphodylium} and {\it Torillis japonica}. Other species recorded include locally frequent {\it Dryopteris dilatata} plus occasional {\it Dryopteris filix-mas}. Along the road, the ground has been disturbed in places by heavy vehicles. There are patches of rank grassland dominated by {\it Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with abundant {\it Glechoma hederacea} plus frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Poa annua}.

MANAGE:
Appears to be unmanaged. The common borders a pine plantation on its northern side.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow woodpigeon. Several Azure damseflies ({\it Coenagrion puella}) and common blue damselflies ({\it Enallagma cyathigerum}) were seen in the central area of the common.

VEG:
Only the woodland in the western half of the common was surveyed. It is dominated by spindly {\it Betula pendula, B. pubescens} and {\it Quercus robur} (trunk diameters rarely exceed 15cm at chest height) with locally frequent {\it Alnus glutinosa} (see below) plus occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Populus} sp. and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. Much standing and fallen deadwood has been left {\it in situ}. There is an understorey of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} with occasional {\it Cornus sanguinea, Rosa} sp. and {\it Salix cinerea}.

The ground flora is dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Urtica dioica} with locally abundant {\it Galium aparine, Geranium robertianum, Glechoma hederacea, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys} plus locally frequent {\it Cirsium arvense, Digitalis purpurea, Geum urbanum, Lamium album} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and occasional {\it Narcissus} sp. Disused drains and surrounding saturated ground in the central area of the woodland support frequent {\it Juncus effusus, Alnus glutinosa, Apium nodiflorum, Cirsium palustre, Lycopus europaeus, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Solanum dulcamara} plus occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Impatiens glandulifera} and {\it Typha latifolia}.

MANAGE:
Part of the central area of the woodland is maintained as scrub/young trees because of a power line which crosses the common. No evidence of other management activity was seen. It would be desirable to continue the practice of leaving stading and fallen deadwood {\it in situ}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, yellowhammer.

VEG:
The common was viewed from the boundary along the A47 only, using binoculars. It appears to be {\it Fraxinus excelsior/Quercus robur} dominated woodland with good regeneration. There is also frequent {\it Betula} sp. and occasional {\it Pinus} sp., {\it Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Ulmus} sp. Within 20m of the northern boundary, there is an understorey of scattered {\it Rhododendron ponticum}. The ground flora in this area is dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with abundant {\it Urtica dioica} plus scattered {\it Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

The common lies within the West Common and Pentney Common CWS which encompasses areas outside the two commons (CLs 205 and 206) and is described as follows:

"The site is largely an area of {\it Betula pendula} dominated woodland on an acid substrate with a small area of {\it Alnus glutinosa} carr. There are also two areas of neutral grassland with scattered scrub.

Although dominated by {\it Betula pendula} the woodland canopy contains occasional {\it Quercus robur, Pinus sylvestris, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Alnus glutinosa}. The shrub layer is mainly {\it Rhododendron ponticum} with some {\it Corylus avellana} which occur in dense patches. The ground flora is dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} across most of the wood with {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. elsewhere. {\it Digitalis purpurea} and {\it Dryopteris dilatata} are frequent. There are several hollows which may become water-filled during the winter. These support dense {\it Salix fragilis}.

Further south there is a dense area of carr dominated by {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} some of which has been coppiced. {\it Crataegus monogyna} forms a dense shrub layer over {\it Carex} sp., {\it Solanum dulcamara} and {\it Scrophularia auriculata}.

The west of the site has scattered scrub over heavily grazed neutral grassland. Young {\it Betula pendula, Ulex europaeus, Rosa canina} agg. and {\it Salix} spp. occur here over {\it Holcus lanatus, Carex hirta, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Festuca rubra}."

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent management activity was seen. The common is subject to a Countryside Stewardship Agreement.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: magpie, woodpigeon.

VEG:
The common was viewed from the road along the southern edge, using binoculars. It appears to be {\it Betula} sp./{\it Quercus robur} dominated woodland with good regeneration.

Along the southern edge of the canopy, there is an area of saturated ground with frequent {\it Salix} sp. and a ground flora of tall {\it Carex} sp. (looks like {\it C. acutiformis}). Drier ground supports scattered {\it Dryopteris filix-mas} and {\it Digitalis purpurea}.

The common lies within the West common and Petney common CWS which is described under the entry for CL205.

MANAGE:
The common is the subject of a Countryside Stewardship Agreement. Part of the common is let for grazing.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, house sparrow, woodpigeon.

VEG:
The woodland was viewed from the road only. It appears to be dominated by {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur} with locally frequent {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Betula pubescens} plus occasional {\it Salix fragilis} (on areas of wet ground) and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. There are also occasional dense stands of spindly {\it Populus tremula} saplings. There is good regeneration of {\it Q. robur} and the {\it Betula} spp. Trunk diameters of the oldest trees rarely exceed 30cm at chest height. Some {\it Betula} spp. trees have been coppiced (old). Standing and fallen deadwood has been left {\it in situ}. 

There is an understorey of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Sambucus nigra} with {\it Salix cinerea} on areas of wet ground and surrounding occasional depressions with standing water which contain {\it Typha latifolia} and tall {\it Carex} sp. 

The ground is covered in leaf litter interspersed with patches of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (southern half), {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Urtica dioica}. Within 5m of the road, there is also locally abundant {\it Glechoma hederacea} plus locally frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Galium aparine, Geranium robertianum, Lonicera periclymenum, Molinia caerulea} and {\it Torilis japonica} plus occasional {\it Silene vulgaris} and {\it Teucrium scorodonia}. 

The additional species {\it Carpinus betulus, Prunus spinosa, Stachys sylvatica, Solanum dulcamara, Arum maculatum, Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Cirsium palustre} are mentioned in the CWS description together with clearings dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and ponds supporting {\it Caltha palustris, Ranunculus repens, Epilobium hirsutum, Cardamine flexuosa} and {\it Vicia} sp. The ponds were surrounded by {\it Salix} spp. The CWS description is based on the 1985 NWT habitat survey.

MANAGE:
The common is managed by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust. No evidence of recent management activity was seen. The common may once have been more open in character. The extent of woodland development suggests that rights to graze cattle, sheep, horses, goats and donkeys have not been exercised for some time. Standing and fallen deadwood has been left {\it in situ}; it is to be expected that NWT will continue this practice.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, swallow.

VEG:
The common was viewed from the road on the north side, using binoculars. The improved grassland appears to be dominated by tussocky {\it Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with scattered patches of {\it Urtica dioica}. It is enclosed with wire fencing. 

The stream on the eastern side of the common contains frequent {\it Sparganium emersum} with occasional {\it Callitriche} sp. There are discontinuous stands of {\it Phalaris arudinacea} along the waters edge. The banks support dense stands of {\it Petasites hybridus} with locally abundant {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, black headed gull, chaffinch, chiffchaff, grey partridge, skylark, woodpigeon. Several large white, orange tip, peacock, common blue and small copper butterflies were seen. There is evidence of localized heavy rabbit grazing in the SE half of the common.

VEG:
The north-western half of the common contains areas of arable crop land and poor semi-improved grassland. The latter consists of tussocky {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Poa} spp. with frequent {\it Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. plus occasional {\it Galium verum}. Within this, there are scattered patches (too small to map) of semi-improved acid grassland dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca} sp. with frequent {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} and {\it Rumex acetosella} plus occasional {\it Carex hirta}. This area of grassland is bordered on its SE side along the road with a belt of dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered patches of tall herb vegetation ({\it Chamerion angustifolium, Urtica dioica}) and scattered scrub ({\it Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Sambucus nigra}) and {\it Quercus robur} saplings.

The south-eastern half of the common in contrast contains a mosaic dense bracken, tall herb vegetation, semi-improved acid grassland and dense and scattered scrub, with scattered trees and small, peripheral areas of broadleaved woodland, all situated on a very uneven surface of hillocks, hollows and disused pits.

Areas of tall herb vegetation are mostly situated on the sides of the pits (slope angles are up to about 45 degrees) and mounds of earth with scattered scrub and are generally dominated by {\it Urtica dioica} and/or {\it Chamerion angustifolium} with frequent {\it Alliaria petiolata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Conium maculatum} and {\it Lamium album}.

Areas of semi-improved acid grassland are generally very short due to rabbit grazing. They are dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca} sp. with locally frequent {\it Campylopus introflexus, Geranium molle, Erodium cicutarium, Pilosella officinarum, Plantago coronopus} and {\it Rumex acetosella}. These areas of acid grassland frequently grade into a rank {\it Dactylis glomerata/Holcus lanatus} dominated sward (which borders the edges of areas of scrub), with frequent {\it Centaurea nigra, Silene dioica} and {\it S. vulgaris} plus occasional {\it Symphytum x uplandicum} and {\it Verbascum thapsus}. 

The dense and scattered scrub on this part of the common is mostly {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Sambucus nigra} with occasional {\it Rosa} sp., {\it Salix} sp. and {\it Bryonia dioica}. Under the dense scrub, the ground flora is dominated by {\it Glechoma hederacea} or {\it Urtica dioica} with occasional {\it Arum maculatum} and {\it Montia perfoliata}.

The trees scattered across the common are mostly young {\it Betula pendula, B. pubescens} and {\it Quercus robur} with occasional {\it Malus} sp. Along the SE boundary, there are small areas of secondary broadleaved woodland dominated by {\it Q. robur} with frequent {\it Fraxinus excelsior} plus occasional {\it Salix alba}. The ground flora is mostly dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

MANAGE:
Part of the NW half is managed for arable crop production; the remaining area of poor semi-improved grassland appears to be ungrazed, but lack of scrub encroachment from the SE edge (where there is a belt of bracken with scattered scrub along the road) suggests that it is mown at least once a year.

The SE half of the common appears to be unmanaged.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, magpie, woodpigeon.

VEG:
The tall herb vegetation in the northern half of the common is dominated by {\it Urtica dioica} with locally abundant {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Chamaerion angustifolium} and {\it Galium aparine} plus locally frequent {\it Centaurea nigra, Lamium album} and {\it L. purpureum} and occasional {\it Arum maculatum}; it is interspersed with scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior} (young trees), {\it Malus} sp., {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Quercus robur} (young trees and mature standards), {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ulex europaeus}.

MANAGE:
The southern half is managed as a pine plantation. No other ongoing management apparent. An area near the track in the northern half is used for storing hay bales.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, house sparrow. Several large white and peacock butterflies were seen.

VEG:
The tall herb vegetation occupies the lowest ground and is dominated by {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Lamium album} and scattered {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Sambucus nigra}.

Dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} occupies the remaining area; it contains scattered patches (too small to map) of semi-improved acid grassland dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} with frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Galium saxatile} and {\it Rumex acetosella} plus occasional {\it Rumex obtusifolius}. There are also scattered patches of {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and occasional scattered {\it Quercus robur} (seedlings, less than 0.6m high), {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ulex europaeus}. 

The common is bounded by scrubby, discontinuous {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated hedgerows with occasional mature standard {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

MANAGE:
Appears to be unmanaged. No evidence of recent livestock grazing or other management was seen.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, house sparrow, magpie, woodpigeon. 2 rabbits seen.

VEG:
Continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with localized scattered scrub ({\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum}) and scattered patches (too small to map) of acid grassland occupies most of the area of the common. Around the edges of the canopy of {\it Pteridium}, there is a carpet of {\it Glechoma hederacea} with frequent {\it Pseudoscleropodium purum, Galium aparine, Lamium album} and {\it Rumex acetosella} plus occasional {\it Bryonia dioica, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Centaurea nigra}.

The small patches of acid grassland are dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} with frequent {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Rumex acetosella} plus occasional {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}.

Along the NE boundary of the common, there is a small area of broadleaved woodland dominated by {\it Quercus robur} with occasional {\it Betula pendula}. The ground is covered with a thick layer of leaf litter and there is little ground flora apart from scattered clumps of {\it Galanthus} sp. and cultivated {\it Narcissus} sp. (both probably planted).

Along the south facing boundary of the common there is a trimmed {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated hedge with occasional {\it Acer campestre, Corylus avellana} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}. The roadside verge below is dominated by {\it Alopecurus pratensis} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with frequent {\it Poa} spp., {\it Achillea millefolium, Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium, Linaria vulgaris, Plantago lanceolata} and {\it Vicia cracca} plus occasional {\it Arctium} sp., {\it Arum maculatum, Saxifraga granulata} and {\it Torilis japonica}.

MANAGE:
No ongoing management apparent. There is no evidence of recent livestock grazing, only rabbit grazing.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, barn owl, chaffinch, chiffchaff, greylag goose, moorhen, swallow, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. 1 speckled wood butterfly was seen in the woodland along the eastern boundary. There is evidence of heavy rabbit grazing in the southern quarter of the common.

VEG:
Dense stands of {\it Glyceria maxima} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria} occupy the lowest ground along the River Nar in the southern quarter of the common. On slightly higher ground, adjoining the public road, there is an area of short, heavily rabbit grazed semi-improved acid grassland dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca} sp., with locally abundant {\it Campylopus} sp., {\it Galium saxatile, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus, Rumex acetosa} and {\it R. acetosella} plus occasional {\it Carex hirta} and {\it Juncus effusus}.

On the remainder of the common (TF832163 to 835168), there is a mosaic of swamp and tall ruderal vegetation, marshy grassland and rank grassland, all with scattered trees and scrub. Along the eastern boundary, there is a belt of broadleaved woodland with dense scrub.

On the lowest ground along the River Nar there are extensive, dense stands of {\it Phragmites australis} with locally dominant {\it Glyceria maxima, Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Carex paniculata} plus occasional {\it Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Typha latifolia}. This vegetation grades into dense {\it Filipendula ulmaria} with scattered {\it Juncus effusus, Angelica sylvestris, Caltha palustris, Cirsium palustre, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Solanum dulcamara}. The tall ruderal vegetation (on slightly higher ground) is dominated by {\it Urtica dioica} with locally frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, E. hirsutum, Galium aparine} and {\it Lamium album} plus occasional {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Galeopsis tetrahit}. There are also patches (mostly too small to map) of tussocky, rank grassland and dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. The grassland is dominated by {\it Dactylis glomerata} with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Centaurea nigra} plus occasional {\it Carex hirta}. 

All of the above vegetation is interspersed with scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Salix} spp. and {\it Alnus glutinosa} (saplings).

At TF832163, the River Nar contains occasional {\it Callitriche} sp. and {\it Hippurus vulgaris}.

The belt of broadleaved woodland on higher ground along the eastern boundary  is dominated by mature {\it Quercus robur} with an understorey of scattered {\it Prunus spinosa, Rosa} sp., {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. On the western side of the woodland, this grades into dense {\it Salix cinerea} dominated scrub. The ground under the {\it Q. robur} is covered in leaf litter, interspersed with frequent scattered {\it Dryopteris dilatata, Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. plus occasional {\it Dryopteris filix-mas, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Mnium hornum}.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent management activity was seen. The area of grassland in the southern quarter may be used for occasional livestock grazing.


FAUNA:
Birds seen: Barn Owl, Yellowhammer, Cuckoo.

VEG:
The northern section of this common is sheep-grazed semi-improved neutral grassland. Species present include {\it Lolium perenne, Ranunculus} spp.,{\it Trifolium repens, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Agrostis} spp. By the road thick scrub of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rosa canina, Fraxinus excelsior, Prunus spinosa} almost hides a ditch which passes parallel to the road.  The area of this common to the south of the Castle Acre road appears to be cattle-grazed marshy grassland with many tall herbs and marsh species e.g. {\it Typha latifolia, Phragmites australis, Juncus effusus, Iris pseudocorus, Phalaris arundinacea, Ranunculus} spp.

MANAGE:
The common is managed for sheep and cattle grazing. Signs indicate (recently designated?) public footpath across the northern area. The present surveyor was uncertain as to whether this included access to the southern half of the common.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, house sparrow, jackdaw. 3 orange tip butterflies seen.

VEG:
The common was viewed from the road only, using binoculars. It appears to be all improved grassland bounded by discontinuous scrubby hedgerows of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus}.

MANAGE:
No livestock were seen, but the sward had been grazed (probably cattle).


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, house sparrow, song thrush, woodpigeon. Several grey squirrels were seen.

VEG:
The woodland is dominated by {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Betula pubescens} with frequent {\it Quercus robur} plus occasional {\it Pinus} sp., {\it Populus tremula} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. The trees generally have a spindly appearance with high crowns. There is good regeneration and a wide age range. Trunk diameters rarely exceed 15cm at chest height. There are a few mature {\it Quercus robur} trees (trunk diameters 70 to 90cm) along the southern boundary.

The understorey is composed of scattered, occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium, Prunus spinosa, Rhododendron ponticum, Ribes} sp., {\it Rosa} sp., {\it Salix} spp. and {\it Ulex europaeus}.

The ground flora is dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, interspersed with patches of {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and scattered {\it Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it D. filix-mas}. Along the edges of the footpaths, there is frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Galium aparine, Glechoma hederacea} and occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris, Conopodium majus} and {\it Tanacetum vulgare}. 

At the western end of the common, there is a small area of {\it Cytisus scoparius} scrub with planted {\it Pinus} sp., {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} saplings along the footpath.

Mown grassland (B6) is maintained on the level surface of the the disused railway embankment which divides the common in two. Ditches running along each side contain discontinuous stands of {\it Phragmites australis}.

MANAGE:
Some standing dead wood has been left {\it in situ}; it would be desirable for this practice to continue. 

An area of woodland in the western half of the common has been felled in the last 8 years, probably to allow regeneration of underlying {\it Calluna vulgaris} (perhaps in an attempt to create a small area of dry heath). The {\it Betula} is regenerating vigorously from the stumps and has almost formed a closed canopy. Removal of this regrowth will be required if an open area of dry heath is to be maintained. At present, the {\it Calluna} is 30 to 60cm high.

Limited planting has taken place at the western end of the common.

The common may once have been much more open in character with limited livestock grazing maintaining areas of dry heath.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chaffinch, house sparrow, swallow, yellowhammer. The common is probably a locally important site for amphibians and wetland birds.

VEG:
The common was viewed from Guist Bridge (TF996250) and the access track in front of the houses at TF993252 only, using binoculars.

The whole area of the common appears to be occupied by {\it Phragmites australis} dominated swamp with locally frequent {\it Typha latifolia}. Scattered {\it Salix} sp. scrub is visible in the western half. Along part of the northern boundary, there is a narrow belt of {\it Salix} spp. ({\it S. cinerea, S. viminalis}) dominated scrub with frequent {\it Crataegus monogyna} and occasional {\it Bryonia dioica} (near houses) and young {\it Alnus glutinosa, Quercus robur} and {\it Salix fragilis}.

Along the western boundary, there appears to be a belt of {\it Betula} sp. dominated woodland with frequent {\it Salix} sp. scrub.

Below the bridge, the River Wensum (which is just outside the CL boundary) contains abundant {\it Potamogeton} sp. (possibly {\it P. pectinatus}) and {\it Sparganium emersum}. The northern bank supports dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} with frequent {\it Galium aparine}. Along the waters edge, there are dense stands of {\it Glyceria maxima}, up to 3m wide.

Guist common is listed on the E. Anglian Valley Fen Dossier and described as follows:

"A large, rather wet site comprised mostly of extensive reedbeds and some {\it Glyceria maxima} vegetation, and with some shallow pools and overgrown ditches, alongside the River Wensum (which forms the south boundary). A strip of alder carr forms much of the north boundary. Patches of sallow scrub occur within the reedbeds. Towards the N margin slightly richer herbaceous fen vegetation is developed in rather drier conditions."

Species recorded during the Norfolk commons survey (1980) include {\it Berula erecta, Caltha palustris, Equisetum palustre, Galium palustre, Juncus subnodulosus, Mentha aquatica, Potentilla palustris} (E. Anglian Valley Fen Dossier).

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent livestock grazing was seen. This extensive area of swamp vegetation adjacent to the River Wensum provides an important area of habitat for wetland wildlife in a landscape where similar areas have been drained to create arable land. The fringing scrub and young woodland provides additional habitat, but control of scrub and tree encroachment may be required in the long term.

At the time of the Norfolk Commons Survey (1980), some reed cutting had apparently taken place but appeared to be the only form of management on the site (E. Anglian Valley Fen Dossier).


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, chiffchaff, house sparrow, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Several rabbits seen.

VEG:
South of Dunham Road, there are are areas of marshy grassland and very short acid grassland fringed with broadleaved woodland, dense scrub and small areas of dense bracken, dry heath and tall ruderal vegetation.

The acid grassland is dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca ovina} with locally abundant {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} plus locally frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Pilosella officinarum, Luzula} sp., {\it Rumex acetosella} and occasional {\it Molinia caerulea}. The sward is generally less than 4cm in height.

The marshy grassland to the east is dominated by tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea} with locally frequent {\it Juncus squarrosus}. The tussocks are generally around 30cm in height. 

The woodland surrounding the marshy and acid grassland is dominated by {\it Betula pendula} with frequent {\it Quercus robur. Ulex europaeus} dominated scrub is frequent along the edges of the canopy where there are also occasional stands of dense bracken. Some areas of bare ground along the canopy edge have been created by removal of {\it U. europaeus}; at the time of survey, no regeneration was seen. At TF889170, there is a small area of dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} (a closely rabbit grazed carpet) with frequent {\it Campylopus} sp. 

Broadleaved woodland occupies most of the area north of Dunham Road. It contains clearings occupied by wet heath and marshy grassland. Around the car park at the eastern end, there are peripheral stands of tall ruderal vegetation ({\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Urtica dioica}).

The woodland is dominated by {\it Betula pendula} and {\it B. pubescens} with scattered {\it Quercus robur} and occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. The trees generally have a spindly appearance with high crowns. There is good regeneration of {\it Betula} spp. Some dead wood has been left {\it in situ}; standing trunks support {\it Piptoporus betulinus}; fallen trunks and branches are frequently covered with {\it Mnium hornum} and {\it Thuidium tamariscinum}.                                      

There is an understorey of locally frequent {\it Prunus spinosa} with occasional {\it Corylus avellana, Lonicera periclymenum, Salix cinerea} and {\it Tamus communis}. 

The ground is covered in leaf litter, interspersed with patches of {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Along informal footpaths, there is frequent {\it Adoxa moschatellina} and {\it Geum urbanum} plus occasional {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}. 

The woodland contains two large clearings. The southernmost is occupied by grazed wet heath/acid grassland mosaic with peripheral areas of marshy grassland. The mosaic is dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea} (low tussocks, mostly less than 30cm) with abundant {\it Festuca ovina} and scattered patches of {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica cinerea} which show evidence of recent heavy grazing and are generally less than 10cm high (where these species are absent, the habitat has been recorded as {\it M. caerulea} dominated marshy grassland). There is also locally frequent {\it Aulocomnium palustre} and occasional {\it Polytrichum} sp. 

The clearing to the north is smaller and contains {\it M. caerulea} dominated marshy grassland with small areas of wet heath/acid grassland mosaic similar to that in the clearing to the south.

MANAGE:
There has been recent locallised clearance of {\it Ulex europaeus} around the edges of the acid grassland to the south of Dunham Road. Some bird boxes were seen in the woodland to the north of the road. No evidence of recent livestock grazing was seen. Regeneration of dwarf shrub species on the common appears to be being surpressed by heavy rabbit grazing.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, house sparrow, woodpigeon. Several blue tailed damselflies ({\it Ischnura elegans}) and 1 common frog were seen, also (along the eastern boundary hedge), several large white butterflies.

VEG:
The woodland is dominated by {\it Alnus glutinosa} with locally frequent {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Betula pendula} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} plus occasional {\it Acer campestre, Salix fragilis} and {\it Ulmus glabra}. Most canopy trees are standards (trunk diameters in the range 10 to 35cm at chest height), although some of the {\it A. glutinosa} appears to have been coppiced at an early stage in its growth. Regeneration of all the above species is good and there are frequent, scattered saplings. {\it Populus} sp. trees (now mature) have been planted along the western boundary. A discontinuous boundary hedge (up to 5m high and wide) runs along the western boundary. It is dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} with frequent {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. plus occasional {\it Acer campestre} (some coppiced, not recently), {\it Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium, Rosa} sp., {\it Ulmus} sp. and mature standard {\it Quercus robur}. 

There is an understorey of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Salix} sp.

Ground flora species recorded include locally frequent {\it Adoxa moschatellina} (along footpath), {\it Ajuga reptans, Alliaria petiolata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Circaea lutetiana, Dryopteris dilatata, Galium aparine, Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Glechoma hederacea, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Mercurialis perennis, Mnium hornum, Ranunculus ficaria, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Silene dioica, Torilis japonica, Veronica chamaedrys} and {\it Viola riviniana} plus occasional {\it Dactylorhiza} sp. and {\it Prunella vulgaris}.

The wettest ground near the stream supports {\it Urtica dioica} interspersed with {\it Carex} sp., {\it Angelica sylvestris, Eupatorium cannabinum} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}.

A clearing containing {\it Filipendula ulmaria} dominated vegetation (with occasional {\it Listera ovata}) fringed with {\it Salix} sp. scrub lies just beyond the southern boundary.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent managemant activity was seen. Some fallen deadwood has been left {\it in situ}. The woodland provides a good area of cover for birds, small mammals and amphibians in a predominantly open, arable landscape.


FAUNA:
Apparently the site has a good population of breeding adder (CWS survey).

VEG:
Beetley Common is a County Wildlife Site and was surveyed 03.07.96. It was not revisited for the purposes of this survey and the following report and the habitat map are based on the CWS survey.

The common is situated on the gentle slopes of the valley of the Blackwater stream which flows east along the northern edge of the site into a tributary of the River Wensum. Dry sandy acidic soils over most of the site become damper towards the northern and eastern edges. Probably once grass heath, the site now supports scrub and secondary woodland habitats with open areas in the former dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. The latter include {\it Alnus glutinosa} carr, {\it A. glutinosa - Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur - Betula pendula} woodland. Parts of the woodland include a diverse ground flora including {\it Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum} and {\it Anemone nemorosa}.

The centre of the site consists of dense and scattered scrub with {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Malus sylvestris} with some young {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Betula pendula}. Open areas are dominated by tall dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with occasional patches of {\it Molinia caerulea, Galium saxatile} and {\it Teucrium scorodonia}. Patches of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula} secondary woodland are encroaching onto the remaining open area. Other scrub species present include {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Cytisus scoparius}.

Along the western margin, taller, dense {\it Prunus spinosa} scrub occurs but also areas dominated by {\it Quercus robur} with a more diverse ground flora including {\it Mercurialis perennis, Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Silene dioica} and {\it Glechoma hederacea}. Further north the ground flora is bare.

Along the northern edge is a band of {\it Alnus glutinosa, Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula} and, moving east, old coppiced {\it Alnus glutinosa} occurs. Conditions are damper here and a diverse ground flora includes {\it Dryopteris dilatata, Anemone nemorosa, Poa nemoralis} and {\it Festuca gigantea}.

The north-east has dense {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Some of the {\it Alnus glutinosa} is coppiced; {\it Salix fragilis} and {\it Salix cinerea} occur on the eastern edge. The shrub layer includes {\it Crataegus monogyna} and young {\it Quercus robur}. The ground flora includes areas of tall {\it Urtica dioica} with {\it Eupatorium cannabinum} and occasional {\it Carex remota, Stachys sylvatica} and {\it Persicaria maculosa}. 

Along the eastern side, the site supports drier {\it Quercus robur/Betula pendula} woodland with mature, past coppiced {\it Corylus avellana}, regenerating {\it Quercus robur} and patches of {\it Ulex europaeus} and occasional {\it Malus sylvestris}. The less diverse ground flora includes {\it Dryopteris dilatata} and areas of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with some {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. Occasional small patches of {\it Rumex acetosella} and {\it Teucrium scorodonia} occur.

The south-eastern part of the site is secondary {\it Quercus robur/Betula pendula} woodland with more mature {\it Quercus robur} on the eastern and southern boundaries with some {\it Alnus glutinosa}. The ground flora and shrub layer is much as along the eastern boundary with some {\it Ilex aquifolium}.

MANAGE:
Beetley Common was also surveyed in 1980 as part of NCC's Norfolk and Suffolk Commons survey. There has been much encroachment by scrub and woodland since then, a large proportion of the common in 1980 supporting 'a dense {\it Pteridium} stand under large, widely spaced birch trees and occasional {\it Malus sylvestris} and {\it Quercus robur}'. There was also a small area of heathland east of the AWA compound which consisted of a mixture of {\it Ulex gallii, Molinia caerulea, Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica tetralix}. At the time of the 1980 survey 'there was no obvious management taking place on the site...'. 

The County Wildlife Site survey states that the common was used in the past for cattle grazing and wood cutting but is now unmanaged. It suggested that restoration of grass heath may be considered if practical and that paths could be managed as rides to facilitate access and create some diversity. Some coppicing of woodland and scrub was recommended to diversify the structure and tall fern/scrub interface. Areas of woodland eg. in the north and north-east could be left as non-intervention.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, woodpigeon.

VEG:
Within 50m of the edge of the plantation canopy, there is an understorey of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. There are occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} saplings (less than 4m high). The ground in this area is covered with {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with occasional {\it Rosa} sp. 

Between the road and the edge of the canopy, there is a belt of tall herb vegetation dominated by {\it Chamerion angustifolium} with patches of rank grassland dominated by {\it Dactylis glomerata}. Other species recorded in this area include frequent {\it Achillea millefolium, Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium}. 

Along the roadside, there is a scrubby hedge (up to 4m high and 3m wide) dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} with occasional semi-mature {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} trees. Ground flora species recorded include abundant {\it Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Geranium robertianum} with occasional {\it Stachys sylvatica}.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent felling or planting was seen.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chaffinch, pheasant, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Several small copper butterflies were seen. Numerous grasshoppers could be heard in the tall ruderal vegetation along the edges of the bracken. There is evidence of rabbit grazing.

VEG:
The scattered scrub is a mixture of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Sambucus nigra} with occasional {\it Ulex europaeus}. It is most frequent in the eastern half of the common; also in this area, there are scattered young {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Quercus robur} trees with occasional young {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Malus} sp. Around the edges of the bracken, there are stands (mostly too small to map) of tall ruderal vegetation dominated by {\it Chamerion angustifolium} or {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium}. Along the NW facing boundary of the southern-most section (TF827247 to 833253), there is a discontinuous, scrubby {\it Crataegus monogyna/Prunus spinosa} hedgerow up to 5m high and wide with occasional young {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur}. There is a similar hedgerow along the NW boundary of the northern-most section.

The following information is reproduced from the West Rudham CWS description:

"This site is largely {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with small pockets of acid grassland over a sandy soil.

There are few herbs in the bracken dominated areas but elsewhere {\it Chamerion angustifolium} occurs in a tufty sward of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Agrostis} spp. and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}. Scrub is scattered across the site and consists of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Cytisus scoparius, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Quercus robur}."

The detached section at TF812253 was viewed from the road at TF817251, using binoculars. It appears to contain dense bracken with scattered scrub and trees, similar to the above. This part of the common is also a CWS and described as follows:

"This is an area of dry acidic grassland over a sandy soil.

The site is dominated by fine grasses such as {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} which form a continuous sward with dense tufts. Herbs are few but include {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Rumex acetosella} and {\it Calluna vulgaris}. {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is abundant in places whilst {\it Cytisus scoparius} forms a thicket at the northern edge."

Both of the descriptions for the CWS's are based on the NWT 1985 habitat survey.


FAUNA:
Rabbits and moles present. Chaffinch and Yellowhammer seen.

VEG:
This common consists of 3 parts. The main area is a football pitch with surrounding grassland and scrub. The smallest area is of grassland and includes a bonfire site. The last area is also grassland opposite the football pitch.

The football pitch is edges to the west by scrub including {\it Crataegus monogyna, Tilia} spp. {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Acer campestre, Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus robur, Rubus fruticosus, Urtica dioica, Chamerion angustifolium}. There are a few planted trees on the common. The main area is neutral grassland including {\it Trifolium pratense, Ranunculus} spp. {\it Holcus lanatus, Arrhenatherum elatius, Potentilla anserina, Plantago lanceolata, Bellis perennis, Stellaria} sp. {\it Plantago major}.

MANAGE:
Managed for public recreation. Some trees have been planted on the largest section. The small section on the east of the road is partly used for recycling bins. A bonfire site is found on the small section of the common.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, house sparrow, woodpigeon.

VEG:
The central area of dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is surrounded by dense scrub dominated by {\it Prunus spinosa} with locally frequent {\it Crataegus monogyna, Lonicera periclymenum, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Salix} sp. and {\it Sambucus nigra} plus occasional {\it Corylus avellana, Fraxinus excelsior} (saplings), {\it Humulus lupulus} and {\it Malus} sp. There is a row of {\it Quercus robur} trees with occasional {\it Acer campestre} along the southern boundary.

The groundflora consists of locally abundant {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} (which extends into the dense {\it P. aquilinum}) and {\it Adoxa moschatellina} (forms carpets in the western half) with locally frequent {\it Holcus mollis, Conopodium majus, Dryopteris dilatata, Geum urbanum, Glechoma hederacea, Hedera helix, Silene dioica, Stellaria holostea, Urtica dioica} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys} plus occasional {\it Alliaria petiolata, Arum maculatum, Chamerion angustifolium, Corydalis} sp., {\it Dryopteris filix-mas, Lunaria annua} and {\it Teucrium scorodonia}.

The roadside verges to the north of the scrub are a mixture of {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne} and {\it Poa} spp. with patches of {\it Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Urtica dioica} plus frequent {\it Centaurea nigra, Conopodium majus, Glechoma hederacea, Potentilla reptans, Rumex crispus} and {\it Vicia} sp.

MANAGE:
The roadside verges are probably mown at least once a year, otherwise the common appears to be unmanaged.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, house sparrow, mallard, woodpigeon, swallow.

VEG:
Access to the area south of the swamp is blocked by a thicket of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ulex europaeus}; a cutting into the riverbank also blocks access. The area immediately beyond the thicket (viewed through binoculars) appears to be {\it Dactylis glomerata/Holcus lanatus} dominated rank grassland. On the riverbank, there are dense stands of {\it Conium maculatum} and {\it Urtica dioica}.

The common borders the river Wensum which contains frequent {\it Nuphar lutea} with occasional {\it Callitriche} sp. to the north of the common near the road. The water here is fringed with dense stands of {\it Glyceria maxima} with frequent {\it Mentha aquatica} plus occasional {\it Phalaris arundinacea, Scrophularia aquatica} and {\it Solanum dulcamara}.

MANAGE:
Boardwalks have been installed along the riverbank at the northern end of the common, where the ground is very wet. The grassland to the south, which was not surveyed, may be grazed seasonally. This area may also contain areas of swamp vegetation; further survey is required.


VEG:
The common is of neutral grasslands, dense scrub and semi-natural broad-leaved woodland but was not surveyed in detail.


FAUNA:
Please see under the entry for CL181 for a description of the fauna of Leziate Fen.

VEG:
The common was viewed from the footpath along the southern side of the adjacent common (CL181), using binoculars. The area visible is all {\it Betula} dominated broadleaved woodland. 

The majority of CLs 145 and 181 form the Leziate Fen part of the Leziate, Sugar and Derby Fens SSSI. The vegetation of the fen is described under the entry for CL181.

MANAGE:
The management of Leziate Fen is discussed under the entry for CL181.


VEG:
The field contained a recently sown {\it Lolium perenne} ley. A discontinuous hedgerow up to 3m high and 2m wide ({\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ulmus} sp. with frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Sambucus nigra}) runs along the farm access track adjoining the western boundary.

MANAGE:
The ley will probably be cut for silage, or it may be grazed during the late summer/autumn.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, blue tit, chaffinch, chiffchaff, house sparrow, pheasant, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Several common blue, large white, orange tip, meadow brown, peacock and small copper buterflies were seen. There is evidence of localized rabbit grazing in the southern half of the common. 

The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

"The soils of Syderstone common are glacially derived sands and gravels overlying chalk. Because of this the pools, although surrounded by acid heathland, contain neutral to alkaline water. This provides suitable conditions for breeding colonies of five species of amphibian including a viable population of Natterjack toads ({\it Bufo calamita}). These toads are a nationally rare species and are protected under section 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act. 

Syderstone Common is one of only two inland heathland colonies of Natterjack toad to have survived recent habitat losses and disturbance and it is the more viable of the two. It is also one of only three breeding colonies now known in East Anglia."

The following further information is reproduced from the Norfolk Naturalists Trust (now the Norfolk Wildlife Trust) Interim Management Plan:

"Syderstone Common is nationally important for its colony of Natterjack toads ({\it Bufo calamita})...

...In addition, the site supports one other notable herptile, the Great crested Newt ({\it Triturus cristatus}) along with the Common frog ({\it Rana temporaria}), Common toad ({\it Bufo bufo}), Smooth newt ({\it Triturus vulgaris}), Common lizard ({\it Lacerta vivipara}), Grass snake ({\it Natrix natrix}) and Adder ({\it Vipera berus}).

As yet there has been no comprehensive survey of birds, mammals, invertebrates or birds on site. Breeding birds confirmed on site include redpoll, Lesser whitethroat, coot and moorhen (NNT Reserves Handbook)."

VEG:
Only a very limited field survey was carried out. The southern area of the common (TF833315) contains areas of semi-improved acid grassland dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with locally frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus, Festuca ovina, Nardus stricta, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Rumex acetosella} and occasional {\it Polygala} sp. There is also scattered {\it Quercus robur} (saplings), {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}. Towards the northern boundary, this grades into {\it Calluna vulgaris} dominated dry heath. 

The area to the north west contains a mosaic of dense scrub and broadleaved woodland with more open areas of acid grassland and dry heath and dry heath/acid grassland mosaic. The woodland is dominated by {\it Betula pendula} with frequent {\it Betula pubescens, Quercus robur} and occasional {\it Malus} sp. and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. The ground flora consists of scattered patches of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with locally frequent {\it Dryopteris dilatata, Hedera helix} and (around the edges of the canopy) {\it Chamerion angustifolium}. The scrub is dominated by {\it Ulex europaeus} with frequent {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. plus occasional {\it Cytisus scoparius} and {\it Sambucus nigra}.  

No further survey was carried out. The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

"Syderstone Common consists of a series of heath and grassland communities occupying a shallow valley in the headwaters of the River Tat, a tributary of the River Wensum. These communities grade from dry heath dominated by Gorse scrub, but with areas of Bracken ({\it Pteridium aquilinum}), Heather ({\it Calluna vulgaris}) and acid grassland dominated by Wavy hair grass ({\it Deschampsia flexuosa}), to marshy, acid grassland dominated by Purple moor grass ({\it Molinia caerulea}) and Rushes ({\it Juncus} spp.). In the lowest areas, there is a series of sesonally wet pools.

Much of the heathland and gorse dominated area also supports Hawthorn ({\it Crataegus monogyna}) scrub and developing Birch ({\it Betula pendula}) woodland. Interesting plants found in the heathland include Petty whin ({\it Genista anglica}) and Dodder ({\it Cuscuta epithymum})."

MANAGE:
Evidence of localized clearance of gorse scrub was seen in the southern half of the common. 7 ideal management objectives have been listed in the NNT Interim Management Plan as follows: 

1) To maintain and increase the population of the Natterjack toad on site.

2) To restore the site to self-perpetuating open heathland/and grassland through the restoration of grazing.

3) To restore the areas of open heath and grassland lost through invasion by Bracken and successional species.

4) To maintain the populations of other herptofauna where compatible with 1.

5) Maximise habitat diversity on site where this is compatible with 1, 2, 3, 4.

6) To encourage detailed non-destructive research into the ecology of {\it Bufo calamita} on the site. 

7) To discourage vehicular access and use of site for recreational purposes incompatible with 1, 2, 3, 4.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: carrion crow, house sparrow, magpie, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Areas of longer grass contain numerous grasshoppers. Several comma, meadow brown and small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen and several blue tailed damselflies ({\it Ischnura elegans}). There is evidence of rabbit grazing in the western half of the common.

VEG:
Areas of horse grazed grassland contain frequent scattered {\it Rumex obtusifolius} and {\it Urtica dioica}.

The semi-improved neutral sward in the SW half of the common is dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Lolium perenne} with locally frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Carex hirta, Dactylis glomerata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Filipendula ulmaria, Ranunculus acris, Rumex acetosa, R. crispus} and {\it Thalictrum flavum} plus occasional {\it Arctium} sp. and {\it Phragmites australis}. 

There is a line of {\it Alnus glutinosa} trees on the bank of the river Yare; at the western end of the common, there is a small area of {\it Alnus glutinosa} dominated woodland with frequent {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Salix} sp. and occasional {\it Salix alba}. Some {\it A. glutinosa} was coppiced at an early stage in its growth. The ground flora is dominated by {\it Urtica dioica} with locally frequent {\it Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Mercurialis perennis} and scattered {\it Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Phragmites australis}. 

Along the bank of the R. Yare, there are dense stands of {\it Carex acutiformis} and {\it Phragmites australis} with locally frequent {\it Glyceria maxima, Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Solanum dulcamara} plus occasional {\it Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Scrophularia aquatica}.

MANAGE:
Used for cattle and horse grazing. The sward is genarally short (less than 10cm), especially in the horse grazed enclosures.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, house sparrow, magpie, pheasant, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Several meadow brown and small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen.

VEG:
Section 1 (TG337283) was viewed from Crostwight comon road only using binoculars. The area visible is mostly occupied by broadleaved woodland which appears to be dominated by {\it Quercus robur} with scattered {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Some conifers (appear to be {\it Pinus} sp.) have been planted near the southern boundary, where there are also small, peripheral areas of dense scrub dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with occasional {\it Salix} sp. Similar dense scrub also occurs on each side of Crostwight Common Road with small areas of rank grassland dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata} with occasional {\it Urtica dioica}. The small area of broadleaved woodland to the west of Crostwight Common Road is dominated by {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

Along the SW boundary of section 2 (TG334287), there is a belt of young {\it Alnus glutinosa} dominated woodland. Dense scrub and tall ruderal vegetation occupy the remaining area. The dense scrub is dominated by {\it Salix} sp. with occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. The {\it Salix} sp. scrub almost completely covers the pond in the northern half of the common, although around its southern edge, there are stands of {\it Typha latifolia}. The tall ruderal vegetation is dominated by {\it Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Aegopodium podagraria, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium}.

Section 3 (TG332291) was surveyed from the footpath along the eastern boundary and Honing Lane to the west (using binoculars). The canopy appears to be dominated by {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} with locally dominant {\it Alnus glutinosa} and locally frequent {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. Most trees are mature standards, although there is some old, coppiced {\it Alnus glutinosa}. There is good regeneration of all the above species. Some fallen deadwood has been left {\it in situ}.

There is an understorey of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Sambucus nigra} and occasional {\it Rosa} sp. and {\it Salix} sp.

Within 30m of the eastern boundary, the ground flora is dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with locally abundant {\it Ranunculus repens, Silene dioica} and {\it Urtica dioica} plus locally frequent {\it Geum urbanum, Glechoma hederacea, Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Mercurialis perennis}. 

Along the eastern and northern edges of woodland, there are areas of dense scrub dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with occasional {\it Salix} sp. In the SE corner, there is a small area of tall ruderal vegetation dominated by {\it Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica} with scatered {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent woodland management was seen. It would be desirable to continue the practice of leaving deadwood {\it in situ}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, chiffchaff, magpie, pheasant, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Several meadow brown, small tortoiseshell and red admiral butterflies were seen, also 1 fox.

VEG:
Sections 1 and 2 (TG327274, 327273) contain woodland with a canopy of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Alnus glutinosa, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur}. The oldest trees are standards with high crowns and a generally tall, spindly appearance. Trunk diameters rarely exceed 35cm at chest height. There is good regeneration of {\it A. pseudoplatanus} and {\it F. excelsior}.

The understorey is composed of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Sambucus nigra} with frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. Along Weaver's Way, there is occasional {\it Viburnum opulus}.

The ground flora is dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with abundant {\it Urtica dioica} plus frequent {\it Dryopteris dilatata, Hedera helix, Silene dioica} and {\it Stachys sylvatica} and occasional {\it Dryopteris filix-mas}. Both areas of woodland are unfenced along Weaver's Way and ungrazed.

Section 3 (TG331272) contains young {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Quercus robur} dominated woodland fringed with {\it Salix} sp. and {\it S. cinerea} scrub and patches (too small to map) of {\it Epilobium hirsutum, Urtica dioica} and {\it Phragmites australis}.

The central area of section 4 (TG335268) contains cattle grazed marshy grassland dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} with frequent {\it Alopecurus geniculatus, Holcus lanatus, Cirsium palustre} and {\it Mentha aquatica}. This is partly surrounded by semi-improved acid grassland dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} with frequent scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus}. The remainder of this section is {\it Alnus glutinosa} dominated woodland with locally frequent {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur}. It is accessible to livestock. The trees in the central parts of the canopy are generally spindly in appearance with high crowns. There is some regeneration. Near the northern edge of the canopy, the ground is frequently saturated. Ground flora species recorded include locally abundant {\it Ranunculus repens, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Urtica dioica} with scattered {\it Cirsium palustre} and {\it Dryopteris dilatata}. Much deadwood has been left {\it in situ}.

There is a belt of similar {\it Alnus glutinosa} dominated woodland along the southern edge of section 5 (TG343270). Additional ground flora species recorded (near the edge of the canopy) include frequent {\it Carex} sp. (most likely to be {\it C. acutiformis}), {\it Carex remota, Eupatorium cannabinum, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Solanum dulcamara} plus occasional {\it Corydalis} sp. The adjacent cattle grazed semi-improved acid grassland is dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with locally abundant {\it Lolium perenne} and {\it Achillea millefolium} plus frequent {\it Galium saxatile, Rumex acetosa} and {\it R. acetosella} and scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus}. Along the edge of the tree canopy, there is a small area of marshy grassland dominated by {\it Juncus effusus}.

There are similar areas of {\it Alnus glutinosa} dominated woodland and acid grassland in the southern half of section 6 (TG342273), although in part of this area, the grassland has undergone a greater degree of improvement and part has been recorded as poor semi-improved (B6). The northern half of the section contains drier {\it Quercus robur} dominated woodland with scattered {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Betula} sp. and a small area of rank {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} dominated grassland with scattered stands of {\it Cirsium} sp. and {\it Urtica dioica}.

Sections 8 and 9 (TG330276, 329274) contain mature {\it Alnus glutinosa} dominated woodland with locally dominant {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur}. There is good regeneration of all these species and there are frequent scattered saplings. 

The understorey consists of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Salix} sp. with frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum} plus occasional {\it Humulus lupulus}. The ground flora is dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with locally abundant {\it Urtica dioica} and scattered {\it Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas} and (under {\it A. glutinosa}), {\it Phragmites australis}.

Section 10 (TG338280) was viewed from the public road only and a path which runs part of the way along Hundred Stream on the eastern side. The area visible from the road appears to be dominated by {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} with locally frequent {\it Alnus glutinosa} and occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. There is good regeneration and an understorey of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa}. The area along Hundred Stream appears to be dominated by {\it Alnus glutinosa}. There are large gaps in the canopy and some trees are in a poor condition. The southern end of the woodland is fringed with {\it Salix} spp. dominated scrub with a ground flora of tall {\it Carex} sp. and {\it Phragmites australis}.

Section 11 (TG334270) contains {\it Salix} sp. dominated dense scrub with scattered {\it Alnus glutinosa} saplings, which is continuous with scrub in CL249.

Sections 12 and 13 (TG331268) were not surveyed on foot, but were viewed through binoculars. They appear to contain {\it Salix} sp. dominated scrub with small areas of {\it Alnus glutinosa} dominated woodland with scattered {\it A. glutinosa} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

MANAGE:
Sections 4, 5 and 6 are used for cattle grazing; no evidence of recent livestock grazing was seen on other sections of the common, or of other management (eg. coppicing, felling, planting) in the wooded areas of the common. It would be desirable to continue the practice of leaving standing and fallen deadwood {\it in situ}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, chiffchaff, goose (a white domestic variety, on S12), house sparrow, pheasant, magpie, mallard (pond, S12), woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Several common blue, large white, small copper and small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen. Evidence of rabbit grazing was seen on sections 6 and 8.

VEG:
Sections 1, 2 and 3 (TG180426, 181425, 182425) contain rank grassland which is a mixture (in varying proportions) of {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Poa} spp. with locally frequent {\it Galium aparine, Plantago lanceolata} and {\it Rumex acetosa} and scattered patches of {\it Urtica dioica}. There is a narrow strip of amenity grassland in section 3.

Section 4 (TG182424) contains rank grassland dominated by {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Poa} spp. with frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Carex hirta, Holcus lanatus, Achillea millefolium, Lotus corniculatus, Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys}. There are scattered patches (too small to map) of drier, more acidic grassland dominated by {\it Festuca} sp. with frequent {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus. Lupinus arboreas} is frequent along the boundary with the railway. A pond (about 10m wide) in the NE corner contains dense stands of {\it Typha latifolia} with occasional {\it Iris pseudacorus}, fringed with frequent {\it Juncus inflexus, Apium nodiflorum, Mentha aquatica, Myosotis scorpioides} and {\it Veronica beccabunga} plus occasional {\it Cirsium palustre} and {\it Equisetum palustre}. On the bank, there are dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Pulicaria dysenterica}.

Section 5 (TG181423), on the opposite side of the road, contains rank grassland of a similar composition to that in section 4, except that {\it Rumex acetosa} is locally abundant and forms distinctive orange-red patches and there is also occasional {\it Leucanthemum vulgare}. In scattered patches of wetter ground, {\it Alopecurus geniculatus} and {\it Cardamine pratensis} are frequent in the sward. Along the western boundary, there is a belt of tall ruderal vegetation ({\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Urtica dioica}) and a discontinuous {\it Crataegus monogyna} hedgerow (up to 4m high and wide). 

Sections 4 and 5 form the West Runton Common CWS which is described as follows:

"The majority of the site comprises a mosaic of well-grazed unimproved dry acidic to neutral grassland and semi-improved neutral grassland with impeded drainage. Areas characterised by {\it Campanula rotundifolia, Prunella vulgaris, Hypochaeris radicata, Pilosella officinarum, Potentilla reptans, Cerastium fontanum, Festuca ovina} and {\it Carex arenaria}, contrast with those supporting {\it Lathyrus pratensis, Lotus pedunculatus, Ranunculus acris, Centaurea nigra, Arrhenatherum elatius, Lolium perenne} and {\it Carex hirta}.

A small pond is present in the north east. Patchy {\it Potamogeton natans} occurs on the water surface. Emergent vegetation includes pure stands of {\it Typha latifolia} with {\it Sparganium erectum} locally present. The margins of the pond support a shorter assemblage of aquatic/inundation plants, including {\it Hottonia palustris, Alisma plantago-aquatica, Myosotis scorpioides, Nasturtium officinale, Apium nodiflorum} and {\it Mentha aquatica} with {\it Juncus bufonius} and {\it Agrostis stolonifera}.

Midway along the western boundary, wetter ground supports mixed tall fen and ruderal vegetation with coarse patches of nitrophilous herbs, including {\it Epilobium hirsutum, Urtica dioica} and {\it Cirsium arvense}. More species-rich patches are present with {\it Rhinanthus minor, Filipendula ulmaria, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Lotus pedunculatus, Pulicaria dysenterica, Hydrocotyle vulgaris} and {\it Juncus inflexus}. Scattered {\it Typha latifolia} is also present, perhaps marking the location of a now occluded pond.

Adjacent to this stand is a mature copse of {\it Alnus glutinosa} with occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna}. The field layer consists of sprawling {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with {\it Juncus effusus, Galium aparine} and {\it Stellaria holostea}. A shallow ditch passing north-south is dominated by {\it Apium nodiflorum} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum}.

A {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated hedge is also present along the western boundary with {\it Ilex aquilifolium} and {\it Sambucus nigra}.

Other species which have been recorded from this site include {\it Caltha palustris, Anagallis tenella, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Listera ovata, Menyanthes trifoliata} and {\it Isolepis setacea}."

This part of the common is also listed on the East Anglian Valley Fen Dossier for "a small and rather scruffy area of grassland and flushed fen meadow with patches of {\it Epilobium hirsutum-Filipendula ulmaria} tall herb fen", classified as M23 {\it Juncus effusus-Cirsium palustre} fen meadow? during the Norfolk Grassland Survey, 1990 with the additional species {\it Blysmus compressus, Carex elata, C. nigra, Epipactis palustris, Ranunculus flammula} and {\it Triglochin palustris}.

The central area of Section 6 (TG183420) is a hill top with semi-improved acid grassland dominated by {\it Festuca} sp. and {\it Holcus lanatus} with locally abundant {\it Rumex acetosella} plus frequent {\it Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Pilosella officinarum} and scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Quercus robur} (saplings). This open area is surrounded by broadleaved woodland dominated by {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur} with occasional {\it Castanea sativa} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}, except at the northern end, where {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} is dominant. The ground flora in this area is dominated by {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Alliaria petiolata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Galium aparine, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Vinca} sp. plus occasional {\it Chelidonium majus, Polygonatum multiflorum} and {\it Smyrnium olusatrum}. This section is owned by the National Trust.

Section 7 (TG187421) was viewed from the adjacent public footpath using binoculars. It appears to contain dense scrub ({\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus}) interspersed with patches of dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 
 
Incelborough Hill (section 8, TG189422) is mostly covered with dense {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub with peripheral areas of dense bracken and tall herb vegetation. In the southern half of the common, there are externsive patches of {\it Cuscuta epithymum} on the {\it U. europaeus}. The highest ground in the central area of the common forms a fairly level plateau on which there is a very short (less than 4cm) {\it Festuca} sp. dominated sward with abundant {\it Rumex acetosella} and {\it Campylopus} sp. The dense bracken mostly occupies the lower half of the hillside. It is interspersed with localized scattered scrub and young trees ({\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Sambucus nigra, Ulex europaeus, Acer pseudoplatanus, Betula} sp., {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}). A few {\it A. pseudoplatanus} trees have been coppiced (not recent). Under the canopy of the bracken, there is occasional {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}. Along the north east facing boundary, the bracken grades into areas of tall herb vegetation dominated by {\it Chamerion angustifolium} with frequent {\it Urtica dioica}. This section is also owned by the National Trust. 

Congham Hill (section 9, TG192418) was viewed from the footpath running along the southern boundary and Incleborough Hill, using binoculars. It appears to be covered with dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} interspersed with scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Ulex europaeus} and young {\it Quercus robur}. There is a belt of dense {\it Prunus spinosa} dominated scrub running along the southern boundary, with frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}.

St Abb's Common (section 10, TG194417) contains rank semi-improved neutral grassland with tall ruderal vegetation, bracken and dense and scattered scrub. The grassland is mostly dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} with locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anisantha sterilis} (along tracks), {\it Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne, Poa} spp., {\it Centaurea nigra, Plantago lanceolata, Potentilla anserina, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys} plus occasional {\it Capsella bursa-pastoris} and {\it Galium verum}. This grades into peripheral tall ruderal vegetation dominated by {\it Chamerion angustifolium} with frequent {\it Alliaria petiolata} and {\it Urtica dioica}. Occasional patches of wet ground also support frequent {\it Pulicaria dysenterica} with occasional {\it Cirsium palustre}. 

The scrub is a mixture of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus} with scattered young {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Quercus robur}. Under the canopy of the dense scrub, there is occasional {\it Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it D. filix-mas}.

The grassland in section 11 (Top Common, TG196421) had been mown recently, but appears to be dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Lolium perenne} with locally frequent {\it Bellis perennis, Plantago lanceolata, Potentilla reptans, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Trifolium repens} plus occasional {\it Armoracia rusticana} (along roadside), {\it Carex hirta} and {\it Geranium molle}. No aquatic or marginal vegetation was seen in the pond at the eastern end; it is fringed with {\it Buddleia davidii, Corylus avellana, Salix} sp. and {\it Viburnum opulus. Quercus robur} saplings have been planted near the pond by a local school. 

Section 12 (TG197421) is all amenity grassland with planted {\it Prunus} sp. saplings along the road. There is occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Sambucus nigra} along the eastern boundary.

Section 13 (TG198424) is also amenity grassland. 1 tethered donkey was seen on the verge just north of the railway.

Green's Common (section 14, TG201414) contains rank, poor semi-improved grassland dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} with scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and patches (too small to map) of more acidic grassland dominated by {\it Agrostis} sp. and {\it Festuca} sp. with frequent {\it Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Rumex acetosella}. Within 15m of the pond in the northern corner, the sward also contains frequent {\it Carex hirta, Cardamine pratensis, Centaurea nigra, Lychnis flos-cuculi} and {\it Pulicaria dysenterica}. The pond contains abundant {\it Elodea canadensis} and is fringed with dense {\it Typha latifolia} plus occasional {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Iris pseudacorus} and frequent {\it Apium nodiflorum, Cirsium palustre, Eleocharis palustris} and {\it Mentha aquatica}. A young {\it Fraxinus excelsior} tree overhangs the southern bank.

On the NE side of the road, there is a small area of {\it Prunus spinosa} dominated scrub interspersed with dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Along the roadside, there is abundant {\it Anisantha sterilis, Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Alliaria petiolata} plus occasional {\it Ornithopus perpusilus} and {\it Vicia sativa}.

MANAGE:
Except for section 13, all the grassland areas appeared to be ungrazed at the time of survey. Grazing may take place later in the year. No evidence of recent management activity was seen apart from mowing in sections 3, 11, 12 and 13, and planting in section 11.

The E. Anglian Valley Fen Dossier entry for Runton Common (TF181413) has an entry from 1992 stating that the common "is continually grazed by many horses and ponies belonging to the Heavy Horse Centre nearby".


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chaffinch, house sparrow, woodpigeon, yellowhammer.

The nationally rare small red damselfly ({\it Ceriagrion tenellum}) is present on the site (SSSI citation).

VEG:
Only a very limited survey was carried out, from the informal footpath on the NE side of the common and from the public footpath running along the western boundary, using binoculars. From the NE side, woodland dominated by mature {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Alnus glutinosa} is visible from the path. There is also scattered {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and an understorey (within 20m of the edge) of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Salix} spp. Some of the {\it A. glutinosa} appears to have been coppiced at an early stage in its growth. Regeneration of all the tree species is good - there are numerous semi-mature trees and saplings. The ground flora (within 20m of the edge) appears to be dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with patches of {\it Hedera helix, Mercurialis perennis, Phragmites australis, Silene dioica} and {\it Urtica dioica} plus abundant {\it Galium aparine} and occasional {\it Geranium robertianum}.  

From the footpath running along the western boundary, an open area is visible surrounded by woodland. It contains {\it Juncus} dominated vegetation with patches of {\it Phragmites australis}. Other species visible: patches of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Eupatorium cannabinum}; scattered {\it Angelica sylvestris, Centaurea nigra, Dactylorhiza} sp., {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Thalictrum} sp. and {\it Valeriana} sp.

No further survey was carried out. The following information is an extract from the SSSI citation (this also concerns Scarning Fen, which is outside the CL boundary):

"The central, open area of the fen is dominated by bryophytes, Bog rush ({\it Schoenus nigricans}) and Blunt flowered rush ({\it Juncus subnodulosus}). Such plant communities are now rare in Britain. The range of flowering plants is exceptional and includes Grass of parnassus ({\it Parnassia palustris}), Great sundew ({\it Drosera anglica}), Common butterwort ({\it Pinguicula vulgaris}), Marsh helleborine ({\it Epipactis palustris}), Common twayblade ({\it Listera ovata}) and Bogbean ({\it Menyanthes trifoliata}). A tall calcareous fen community surrounds the central area and is dominated by Reed ({\it Phragmites australis}), Marsh pennywort ({\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris}), Common quaking grass ({\it Briza media}) and Ragged robin ({\it Lychnis flos-cuculi}).

On the highest ground there is an area of grassy heath with much gorse ({\it Ulex europaeus}) and some heather ({\it Calluna vulgaris}). The calcareous soils are reflected in a number of the species present including Common quaking grass and Heath speedwell ({\it Veronica officinalis}).

Alder ({\it Alnus glutinosa}) carr, has grown up on parts of the site and is gradually reducing the remaining open areas of Potter's Fen. Reed, Meadowsweet, Yellow iris ({\it Iris pseudacorus}) and Marsh marigold ({\it Caltha palustris}) are present in the ground flora."

MANAGE:
The site is managed by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust, in co-operation with English Nature.

The following information is reproduced from an English Nature site report:

"A good deal of Potter's Fen was cleared of scrub in 1990 with the site as a whole under close care and attention of the voluntary warden at the present time. It is clear however, that the site was neglected for varying lengths of time post-dating its use for peat cutting and as mowing marsh in the early part of this century (Site Dossier, Wheeler and Shaw, 1992)." 

Part of Potter's Fen was mown in 1992, and most of the cuttings removed (English Nature Site Integrity Monitoring report, November 1992).


FAUNA:
The Holme dunes are important for their fauna, which includes a breeding population of Natterjack toads (National Sand Dune Vegetation Survey). For a full description of the fauna of the SSSI, please see under the entry for CL65.

VEG:
CL32 is one of a series of adjoining commons along the North Norfolk coast lying within the North Norfolk Coast SSSI. The SSSI citation is reproduced under the entry for CL65, the largest common in this group. The common largely comprises an area of sand dunes with an area of saltmarsh at the western end and some intertidal mud and sand. The common was included in the National Sand Dune Vegetation Survey (Site report No. 69, Hunstanton and Holme Dunes, 1989). The following information is reproduced from that report. The habitat map is also based on this report. The Hunstanton dunes referred to lie outside the CL boundary.

"This site is an important component of the North Norfolk Coast complex of dune systems. It has many of the features common to dunes on this stretch of coastline. The barrier island structure of the Holme dunes is one of a series along this coast of which Scolt Head is probably the archetype. 

The Holme dunes have areas of dune slack vegetation, which is otherwise very scarce along this section of coast, where most hollows are filled by saltmarsh. 

When the site was surveyed in early June 1989, there were only very small areas of strandline vegetation (SD2). Along most of the length of the system, the seaward edge of the dunes, where there is considerable sand movement, is formed by a narrow band of {\it Ammophila arenaria} dominated foredune (SD6). Two types of this vegetation are widespread, the very mobile {\it Elymus farctus, (Elytrigia juncea)} sub community (SD6a) and the rather more stable {\it Festuca rubra} sub community (SD6e). The first of these is especially associated with sections of the dune front that are advancing. 

Smaller areas of several other types of vegetation also occur in this unstable foredune region including the {\it Elytrigia juncea} pioneer dune community (SD4) and an area of {\it Carex arenaria} dominated vegetation (SD10). Along one section where the dune front is in retreat a more established dune community (SD7a) can be seen in the process of destabilisation as sand from the eroding dune front is blown into it.

Immediately behind the narrow zone of mobile foredunes there is, along most of this site, a zone of semi-fixed {\it Ammophila arenaria/Festuca rubra} dune (SD7). The Holme dunes show a very clear zonation within this community. Immediately behind the mobile foredunes, there is a band of relatively open, species poor, semi-fixed dune (SD7a). Then comes a broader band of a more stable and diverse type in which the moss {\it Hypnum cupressiforme} is prominent (SD7b). Both these types are especially characteristic of dunes in the northern part of Britain. It is therefore interesting that the most widespread types of semi-fixed dune on the Hunstanton dunes both have a generally southern distribution.

Scrub occupies quite large areas of these dunes. {\it Hippophae rhamnoides} is the most widespread shrub and occurs in dense mature stands (SD18b) and as young bushes colonising open dune (SD18a). On the Hunstanton dunes it has managed to invade a considerable part of the foredunes. There is a programme of scrub clearance on the Holme dunes and the cleared areas are marked by a number of distinctive species including {\it Bryonia dioica} and {\it Cynoglossum officinale}. Smaller stands of other scrub communities are found, including stands of pure {\it Sambucus nigra}.

Part of the Holme dunes is occupied by a mature {\it Pinus nigra} woodland. This was planted, but has spread somewhat by natural regeneration. A distinctive field layer vegetation has developed under parts of this woodland in which {\it Carex arenaria} and the moss {\it Hypnum cupressiforme} are the most abundant species.

In the central and eastern parts of the site, where the dunes abut areas of saltmarsh, there are narrow transition zones between the two habitats. Two communities are characteristic, {\it Elytrigia atherica} dominated saltmarsh (SM24) and {\it Suaeda vera} strandline (SM25). The latter is only found as a dune/saltmarsh transition community in North Norfolk.

The rare plant survey of Norfolk recorded one nationally scarce* species from this site. This was {\it Corynephorus canescens}, which is known nationally from l6 ten kilometre grid squares. A sizeable population of this species was re-recorded during the present survey, though in a different location. Scattered individuals were also found elsewhere on the site. The main population is associated with the {\it Carex arenaria-Cornicularia aculeata} dune community SD11.

The other nationally scarce** plant recorded during the present survey was {\it Suaeda vera}. This is found in 30 ten kilometre grid squares and
here occupies the dune/saltmarsh transition zone."

*{\it Corynephorus canescens} is now known to occur in 15 or fewer 10 km squares in Britain, making it nationally rare (D.A. Pearman {\it et al} (1994), 'Scarce Plants in Britain').

**Nationally scarce species are those occurring in between 16 and 100 10 km squares in Britain (D.A. Pearman {\it et al} (1994).

MANAGE:
The following information is reproduced from the National Sand Dune Vegetation Survey:

"The programme of scrub clearance at Holme is of considerable interest, as well established areas of {\it Hippophae rhamnoides} scrub have been cleared. It would be very interesting to have the results of long term monitoring of the vegetation of the cleared areas. This would go a long way towards answering the question of when it is possible to re-establish open dune vegetation and how long this takes. The results of such work would have widespread application in planning strategies for scrub control on dunes.

The lack of stock grazing on Holme dunes means that, although some areas are very heavily grazed by rabbits, some quite large sections are very lightly grazed and are in danger of becoming rank and losing botanical diversity. Localised re-introduction of stock might help to keep this process in check.

The Holme dunes were surveyed in detail during the early years of this century (Marsh 1915). Considerable insight into long term changes at this site could be gained by a detailed comparison between that survey and the present one, which are separated by some 75 years."


FAUNA:
Skylark, chiffchaff, snipe and meadow brown butterfly were recorded during the site visit. The very rare whorl snail {\it Vertigo angustior} has been recorded from the SSSI.

VEG:
The western area of the common was only viewed from the road using binoculars. It appeared to support {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} dominated grassland with scattered patches of {\it Carex} spp. {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Alopecurus pratensis} and {\it Holcus lanatus} were locally frequent with scattered {\it Heracleum sphondylium}. There were stands of {\it Conium maculatum} towards the edges. {\it Filipendula ulmaria} was noted along the drain with {\it Phragmites australis} in the drain. {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rosa} sp. and {\it Sambucus nigra} occurred on the banks with {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}. The hedgerow along the road comprised {\it Cornus sanguinea, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} with {\it Humulus lupulus}. 

The area to the east of the road was surveyed from the public footpath. Stands of {\it Iris pseudacorus} were noted amongst very short grassland with short {\it Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Myosotis aquatica, Pulicaria dysenterica, Holcus lanatus, Poa} spp., frequent {\it Bellis perennis}, abundant {\it Ranunculus repens}, occasional {\it Galeopsis tetrahit}, locally frequent {\it Lathyrus pratensis} and scattered {\it Urtica dioica}. Scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Alnus glutinosus} saplings were present and small areas of {\it A. glutinosus} broadleaved woodland. 

The understorey of the woodland comprised scattered {\it Sambucus nigra} with numerous spindly {\it Fraxinus excelsior} saplings and occasional {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Viburnum opulus}. Ground flora species recorded were {\it Galium aparine, Geranium robertianum, Mercurialis perennis, Hedera helix, Geum urbanum, Filipendula ulmaria, Tamus communis, Eupatorium cannabinum} and {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum} with locally abundant {\it Glechoma hederacea, Achillea millefolium} and {\it Silene dioica} and locally frequent {\it Prunella vulgaris}. 

The easternmost end of the common supports semi-improved neutral and poor semi-improved grassland. 

The central area and part of the eastern end of the common form the Florden Common Site of Special Scientific Interest. The following information is reproduced from the citation:

"Florden Common is situated in the valley of the River Tas on shallow fenland peats. Springs emerge on the valley-side bearing base-rich waters from the underlying chalk and in these areas species-rich calcareous fen has developed. On higher ground unimproved pasture is present which includes a number of species characteristic of chalk grassland. Calcareous spring-fed fens are rare in Britain and the site is considered to be one of the best remaining examples in Norfolk...

The flushed areas on the wetter parts of the fen are dominated by {\it Schoenus nigricans} and {\it Juncus subnodulosus} over a carpet of mosses. These species-rich areas contain a number of uncommon plants including {\it Pinguicula vulgaris, Anagallis tenella, Gymnadaenia conopsea, Epipactis palustris} and the rare (nationally scarce*) {\it Dactylorhiza traunsteineri}. Conditions are locally acidic and this has encouraged the recent growth of a few tussocks of {\it Sphagnum} sp.

The drier parts of the fen are dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea, J. subnodulosus} and several species of {\it Carex}. Many characteristic fenland plants occur including {\it Dactylorhiza praetermissa, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Valeriana dioica, Triglochin palustris} and {\it Listera ovata}. 

Grazed unimproved chalky grassland surrounds the fen on higher ground and is dominated by a variety of grasses including {\it Festuca ovina, Briza media, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Agrostis canina}. An interesting range of herb species are present and include {\it Primula veris, Rhinanthus minor, Plantago media, Ophioglossum vulgatum} and {\it Ophrys apifera}.

Additional interest is provided by a stream, areas of tall fen dominated by {\it Phragmites australis} with frequent {\it Carex paniculata} and small areas of {\it Alnus glutinosa} carr woodland over a ground flora of {\it Iris pseudacorus, Urtica dioica} and {\it Mentha aquatica}."

The area of fen on the SSSI was subject to an NVC survey in 1993 (Norfolk Valley Fen Survey). It was described as a valley fen comprising areas of fen meadow M24b {\it Molinia caerulea - Cirsium dissectum} fen meadow (typical sub-community) and calcareous mire M13c {\it Schoenus nigricans - Juncus subnodulosus} mire ({\it Caltha palustris - Galium uliginosum} sub-community). On the higher ground to the north, the grassland is described as dry calcareous/mesotrophic. Amongst the woodland at the eastern end of the common, an area of nitrophilous, coarse vegetation was recorded comprising rank patches of {\it Urtica dioica, Galium aparine, Galeopsis tetrahit, Calystegia sepium} and {\it Stellaria media} with locally abundant {\it Glyceria maxima} in the west grading eastwards into MG1b {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} coarse grassland ({\it Urtica dioica} sub-community) with locally abundant {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Galeopsis tetrahit}. Rank {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} grassland also occurs locally, bordering the fen. {\it Carex diandra} was recorded during this survey.

*Nationally scarce species are those occurring in between 16 and 100 10 km squares in Britain (D.A. Pearman {\it et al} (1994).

MANAGE:
At the time of the NVC survey in 1993, the site was being grazed by 7 geese, 3 horses and a donkey by one of the right holders. Structural variation in the vegetation was described as 'well marked throughout the site with rank and tall swards typically less species-dense than shorter, less litter strewn patches. Such structural patchiness may be linked to changes in grazing pressure and the types of graziers present in the past. Nowhere though does grazing appear to have resulted in poached, open vegetation rather the vegetation is everywhere slightly undergrazed and locally well neglected. 

The water table was below the surface over most of the site, only above and at the surface in drainage ditches and in the area of the M13c in the south-west.' 

In 1991 the site was described as lightly grazed with some dumping noted (Wheeler and Shaw, 1992). 

The SSSI citation notes that the common continues to be managed in a traditional manner by light summer grazing and this has ensured the survival of many locally uncommon plants. 

There is currently some scrub encroachment on the fen.


FAUNA:
There is no specific faunal information relating to this common. For a description of the fauna of the SSSI, please see under the entry for CL65.

VEG:
A large area of saltmarsh lying within the North Norfolk Coast SSSI. For a description of the vegetation of the SSSI please see under the entry for CL65. This common demonstrates the full succession from intertidal sand and mud through pioneer saltmarsh communities to swamp vegetation dominated by {\it Phragmites australis}. There is also an area of reclaimed grassland towards the inland edge of the saltmarsh.

MANAGE:
There is no information on the management of this common. A small part of the common has been reclaimed as grassland. Most of the SSSI is managed for nature conservation by the National Trust, the Norfolk Naturalists' Trust, Norfolk Ornithologists Association, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and English Nature.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, house sparrow, swallow, yellowhammer.

VEG:
The improved grassland is dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} and looks as if it is the result of re-seeding. Along the eastern boundary, there is a trimmed hedge dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} with frequent {\it Acer campestre, Rosa} sp. and {\it Sambucus nigra} plus occasional {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. A similar hedge runs along the western boundary, but it is partly discontinuous (south of the pond) and also contains frequent {\it Clematis vitalba} and {\it Humulus lupulus}. The pond situated along this boundary is fringed with occasional {\it Solanum dulcamara} and surrounded by dense {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rosa} sp. and {\it Sambucus nigra} which partly overhang the water.

MANAGE:
No livestock were seen. The grass is probably cut for silage during the summer. Grazing may take place on the aftermath or over winter.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, house sparrow.

VEG:
There are scattered trees on the site; most appear to have been planted. Species recorded: {\it Betula} sp., {\it Fagus sylvatica, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Pinus sylvestris}. The grassland on the site is managed as amenity grassland.

MANAGE:
Managed as a static/touring caravan site.


FAUNA:
The possible site of a gullery at the end of the spit hook was noted during the National Sand Dune Vegetation Survey. For a full description of the fauna of the SSSI please see under the entry for CL65.

VEG:
CL56 is one of a series of adjoining commons on the North Norfolk coast which lie within the North Norfolk Coast SSSI. Please see under the entry for CL65 for a description of the SSSI. The common comprises two main sections on either side of the Harbour Channel at Thornham and a number of small fragments in the intertidal zone. The area to the west of the harbour channel consist largely of saltmarsh and intertidal mud and sand with a few small areas of dune. The section to the east comprises sand dunes and an area of intertidal mud and sand. The dunes on this part of the common were included in the National Sand Dune Vegetation Survey (Site report No. 70, Thornham, Titchmarsh and Brancaster Dunes, 1990) referred to as the Thornham dunes and the following information is reproduced from that report.

The dunes at Thornham consist of a single frontal ridge which ends in a hooked spit with exposed shingle. The spit appears to be still accreting towards the western end. Behind this the dunes slope gently down to saltmarsh. A second ridge, separated from the main ridge by a narrow, tide scoured channel, runs roughly parallel for most of the length. Further inland, in the middle of the saltmarsh (CL41), is a low third ridge crossed by a saltmarsh creek.

The vegetation shows a good zonation from the sea landwards. There is a narrow band of SD6a {\it Elytrigia juncea} vegetation followed by some SD6e with {\it Festuca rubra} and some {\it Elytrigia atherica}. Behind this, in the broader parts of the spit, is an area of SD7e grassland characterised by the abundance of {\it Brachythecium albicans}. On the second ridge there is another area of SD7e grassland, more established in appearance, where {\it Hypnum cupressiforme} is abundant. There is a prominent clump of {\it Hippophae rhamnoides} (SD18b) at the end of this ridge. The older third ridge is dominated by {\it Elytrigia atherica} but still has remnants of SD8a dune grassland.

There is a discontinuous zone between the second dune ridge and the saltmarsh with {\it Spergularia maritima-Puccinellia distans} (SM23) and {\it Elytrigia atherica} (SM24) saltmarsh communities, including a small population of {\it Juncus acutis}.

MANAGE:
There is no information on the management of this common. Most of the SSSI is managed for nature conservation by the National Trust, the Norfolk Naturalists' Trust, Norfolk Ornithologists Association, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and English Nature.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, house sparrow, songthrush, yellowhammer.

VEG:
The woodland is dominated by {\it Betula pendula} and {\it B. pubescens} with scattered {\it Quercus robur} plus occasional {\it Castanea sativa, Fagus sylvatica, Malus} sp. and {\it Quercus cerris}. Regeneration of {\it Betula} is good and there is a wide age range of trees. The oldest trees look as if they were coppiced at an early stage in their growth. Much deadwood has been left {\it in situ} and this supports {\it Piptoporus betulinus}. There is an understorey of scattered {\it Sambucus nigra} with occasional {\it Ilex aquifolium, Ribes} sp. and {\it Rosa} sp. The ground is mostly covered in leaf litter but there is localized, scattered {\it Dryopteris dilatata, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. {\it Alliaria petiolata, Geranium robertianum, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Viola riviniana} are frequent along footpaths. 

Areas of pine plantation on the common are mature - trunk diameters are in the range 20 to 40cm at chest height; a few old trees have trunk diameters in the range 60 to 70cm. The ground is mostly covered with a carpet of needles but there is localized, scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and occasional {\it Dryopteris dilatata}. The CWS description refers to this area having a {\it Calluna vulgaris} ground flora with good potential for reversion to the former heathland.

In the central area of the common, there is an area of mature {\it Calluna vulgaris} dominated dry heath. This is subject to invasion by {\it Betula pubescens} saplings and some attempt has been made to fell these, however, they are all regenerating from the stumps. According to the CWS description {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} also occurs here and there is reasonable regeneration of {\it C. vulgaris}. {\it Rumex acetosella} and bryophytes are abundant where grazing occurs and {\it Betula pendula} is encroaching at the peripheries. To the north of this area, well established {\it B. pendula} has been cut back and is now resprouting over patchy {\it Erica cinerea}.

Along the southern boundary of the common, there is a belt of dense scrub dominated by {\it Ulex europaeus} with locally abundant {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. This grades into generally {\it Quercus robur} dominated woodland with frequent {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Betula pendula} over a field layer dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with patchy {\it Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Vinca major} which is presumably a garden escape. Although much of the woodland is young, some mature trees are present including a {\it Quercus robur} pollard (CWS entry).

The following additional information is reproduced from the CWS description:

"An area of tall herb and scrub has developed at the foot of the cliff (an area of past sand extraction) and is characterised by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Urtica dioica, Chamerion angustifolium, Rumex obtusifolius, Ulex europaeus, Cytisus scoparius} and {\it Quercus cerris}.

Typical acid grassland vegetation occurs along the paths where ericaceous species are absent and is maintained by frequent trampling. Species here include {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Plantago coronopus} and {\it Erodium cicutarium}."

MANAGE:
Attempts have been made recently to control the spread of {\it Betula} onto the area of dry heath in the central area of the common. As most of the cut trees are regenerating, further ongoing control is required. Much standing and fallen deadwood has been left {\it in situ} and it would be desirable for this practice to continue.


FAUNA:
Chiffchaff and yellowhammer were recorded during the site visit. Coot, mallard and mute swan were recorded along the river. The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

"The variety of habitats on the Common is reflected in the fact that 83 species of birds were recorded on the Common in 1982 including over 60 breeding species. The common also supports a good range of butterflies, moths and other invertebrates."

VEG:
The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

"Barnhamcross Common is a sizeable area of public open space on the southern edge of Thetford. The common supports well-developed areas of calcareous and acidic Breckland grassland heath and some tall neutral grassland. Lack of grazing and frequent fires have led to the development of areas of scrub and woodland. The site has a rich flora, including several nationally rare* plants and the considerable diversity of habitats attracts a corresponding diversity of birds. 

Calcareous grass heath is best developed in the north-western part of the site where the turf is dominated by {\it Festuca rubra, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}. This turf contains a great variety of small flowering plants including {\it Cirsium acaule, Lotus corniculatus, Linum catharticum, Briza media, Ononis repens} and {\it Anthyllis vulneraria}. 

Acidic grass heath is well developed on the eastern half of the Common. {\it Carex arenaria} a plant of stabilised sand dunes is the main dominant, especially on the uneven terrain left by small scale gravel workings in the past. {\it C. arenaria} produces a dense, tall grassland, but a number of other plants co-exist with it. These include {\it Hypochaeris radicata, Campanula rotundifolia, Rumex acetosella} and {\it Galeopsis tetrahit}. {\it Festuca ovina} replaces sand sedge as the main dominant in some areas, particularly the flatter, south-eastern part of the Common. The range of associated species is similar but there are also a few {\it Calluna vulgaris} bushes in this area.

As well as the heath grasslands there are quite large areas dominated by tall grasses such as {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Holcus lanatus}. This type of grassland has a number of species associated with it including {\it Knautia arvensis, Galium verum} and the locally rare {\it Medicago sativa} ssp. {\it falcata}**. At one point this type of grassland grades into relict fen with species such as {\it Angelica sylvestris} and {\it Conium maculatum}.

{\it Ulex europaeus} is the most abundant scrub species on the site. It is found both as isolated bushes and as dense thickets with little other vegetation. The latter are particularly susceptible to fires and quite a rich grassland flora can sometimes appear on the aftermath of such fires. However, without management intervention, such areas tend to be invaded by {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and recolonised by gorse.

Mixed scrub dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and naturally regenerated {\it Quercus robur} occupies a considerable part of the south-western corner of the Common. A fairly rich chalky grassland survives between the bushes. {\it Pinus sylvestris} has also invaded one area of the Common and there are some sizeable {\it Prunus spinosa} thickets.

Barnhamcross Common has long been known as a locality for a number of the rare* plant species associated with Breckland and several of these survive today. {\it Phleum phleoides} and {\it Silene otites} are the most abundant."

Areas of acid grassland dominated by {\it Rumex acetosella} with {\it Agrostis} sp., {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} and patches of {\it Carex arenaria} were noted during the brief site visit with {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Holcus lanatus} in more neutral areas. Other species noted were {\it Carduus nutans, Anthyllis vulneraria, Briza media, Knautia arvensis, Veronica chamaedrys, Linum catharticum, Viola} sp., scattered {\it Cornus sanguinea} and {\it Plantago coronopus} in short grass along the road. Also recorded on calcareous soils were {\it Centaurea scabiosa, Medicago sativa, Trifolium campestre, Jasione montana} and {\it Viola tricolor}. 

Outside the boundaries of the SSSI the common largely supports areas of amenity grassland, locally with scattered broadleaved trees such as {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Tilia} sp., {\it Populus} sp. and occasional {\it Salix alba} and a weeping {\it Salix}. Along the western boundary there is a shelterbelt of {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Pinus} sp. At the extreme northern end there is an area of {\it Alnus glutinosa} woodland. 

The habitat map for the SSSI part is based upon the 1983 Phase 1 survey map.

*Nationally rare species are those occurring in 15 or fewer 10km squares in Britain.

**A nationally scarce species occurring in between 16 and 100 10km squares in Britain ('Scarce Plants in Britain', D.A.Pearman {\it et al}, 1994).

MANAGE:
No observations on management were made during the site visit. Presumably the areas of amenity grassland are managed by mowing and there has been past planting of trees there. Scrub encroachment could be a serious threat to the grass heath communities but may be kept in check by frequent fires otherwise intervention will be required. In the absence of grazing (there are no grazing rights) management of the grassland communities may be required to maintain their diversity. 

References are made in the SSSI citation to lack of grazing and frequent fires having resulted in the development of areas of scrub and woodland. Following fires in areas of scrub a rich grassland flora can appear, but in the absence of intervention such areas tend to be invaded by {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and recolonised by {\it Ulex europaeus}.


FAUNA:
Large white and meadow brown butterflies were recorded during the site visit and grasshoppers were abundant. 

Several uncommon species of insect have been recorded from the common including the rare dragonfly {\it Sympetrum danae}. Uncommon birds including Nightjar, Curlew, Redshank and Barn Owl breed on the site, and birds of prey use the common as a roosting site in the winter; Hen Harrier, Merlin, Sparrowhawk and Rough-legged Buzzard are regularly recorded (SSSI citation). Common Lizard and adder also occur on the common (Site Management Statement). 

The common is listed on the Invertebrate Site Register for the following interest: "contains a range of acid bog species eg. the only known site for the water beetle {\it Agabus affinins} and one of the few East Anglian sites for the dragonfly {\it Sympetrum danae}. Also has insects associated with the dry heaths of southern England. The moth {\it Acronicta menyanthidis} is a northern and western species; this is the only known station for it in south eastern Britain". The Red Data Book species {\it Orthonevra geniculata} (Diptera) and the notable species {\it Harpalus punctatulus, Helochares punctatus, Hydroporus neglectus, Illybius guttiger, Pterostichus angustatus} (Coleoptera), {\it Limnophila pulchella} (Diptera) and {\it Philedone gerningana} (Lepidoptera) have been recorded from the common in recent years (post 1982). Additional species mentioned in the Site Objective's Statement are the Lepidopteran {\it Buckleria paludum} and the Dipterans {\it Macrocera fascipennis, Allodia embla} and {\it Eutolmus rufibarbis}.

VEG:
No detailed resurvey of the common was carried out. The common was viewed from the roadside only. Here the common supports {\it Juncus effusus/Deschampsia cespitosa} marshy grassland with {\it Cirsium?} sp. and {\it Cirsium palustre} fringed with scattered {\it Ulex europaeus} grading into {\it Betula} woodland? There is also frequent {\it Ranunculus acris, Holcus lanatus, Festuca} sp. and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}. 

There are large patches of {\it Betula} dominated woodland (both {\it B. pendula} and {\it B. pubescens}) in the reserve area (the eastern end of the common, south of the road and bordered by a boundary dyke) with scattered {\it Salix} sp., {\it S. aurita}, young {\it Quercus robur} and a ground flora dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with locally abundant {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it H. mollis}, locally frequent {\it Poa nemoralis} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}, occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Prunella vulgaris} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} towards the edges of the canopy. There is an area of tall {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} grassland with abundant {\it Cirsium palustre}, frequent {\it Holcus lanatus} and occasional {\it Lotus pedunculatus, Galium palustre} and {\it Polytrichum} sp. 

There are extensive heathland areas on the southern side with equal proportions of {\it Erica tetralix} and {\it Calluna vulgaris}. Surrounding {\it Betula} woodland has {\it Calluna vulgaris} in the ground flora and scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} towards the edges of the canopy. Scattered {\it Pinus sylvestris} young trees (less than 6cm ACH) are present around the edges of the heath. Also recorded were {\it Molinia caerulea} (locally frequent), {\it Hypericum perforatum} and {\it Teucrium scorodonia} along tracks, occasional {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Verbascum thapsus?}.

The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

"Roydon Common is considered to be one of the best examples of a lowland mixed valley mire, a complex series of plant communities grading from wet acid heath through valley mire to calcareous fen. The mire is extremely diverse and supports many rare and locally uncommon plants. Large areas of nationally important dry {\it Calluna} heath on acidic sands are also present. 

The area of dry heathland, which is dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}, contains scattered {\it Ulex europaeus} and young {\it Betula pendula} and has small areas of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} around the margins. Flanking the mire itself is the wet heath, dominated by {\it Erica tetralix} with {\it Molinia caerulea} abundant in places. Species of note include {\it Drosera rotundifolia, Sphagnum} spp., the locally rare {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}, bushes of {\it Myrica gale} and {\it Platanthera bifolia}.

The valley mire is a very wet area with extensive carpets of {\it Sphagnum} moss with the moss {\it Scorpidium scorpioides} and {\it Schoenus nigricans}. This species-rich area contains the rare (nationally scarce*) {\it Hammarbya paludosa} and {\it Thelypteris palustris} and other interesting species including {\it Vaccinium oxycoccos, Narthecium ossifragum, Eriophorum angustifolium} and all three species of {\it Drosera}. The peats get progressively more alkaline near the drainage axis and a zone of calcareous fen is present, where {\it Phragmites australis} is locally common with {\it Cladium mariscus} and a number of typical fenland plants including {\it Drosera anglica, Pedicularis palustris, Anagallis tenella, Pinguicula vulgaris, Utricularia intermedia} and {\it Dactylorhiza praetermissa}. An area of wet carr dominated by {\it Frangula alnus} and {\it Salix aurita} is present along the central water course of the mire.

To the east of the mire is an extensive area of woodland and acidic grassland. The woodland is mostly of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula} over a ground flora of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, acid grassland and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. The acid grassland is dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Molinia caerulea} with frequent {\it Rumex acetosella, Campanula rotundifolia} and {\it Potentilla erecta}.

Several areas of marshy grassland are present where {\it Juncus acutiflorus} is dominant. Marsh orchids {\it Dactylorhiza} spp. are abundant and other interesting species include {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Potentilla palustris} and {\it Menyanthes trifoliata}."

Additional species mentioned in the RAMSAR designation include the nationally scarce* {\it Gentiana pneumonanthe, Sphagnum magellanicum} (rare in south-east England) and {\it Cladium mariscus}.

The vegetation structure was described as follows in the NVC survey, 1992:

"The vegetation varies widely in structure, generally closed on wetter ground and becoming more open on drier slopes where mature phase {\it Calluna} is associated with a lower density of individuals and a fragmented sub-shrub canopy with patchy bare ground. More open vegetation also occurs around the western drainage axis where wetter runnels separate tussocky {\it Schoenus} and {\it Molinia} with either {\it Juncus subnodulosus} or {\it Juncus acutiflorus} and locally with abundant to dominant {\it Cladium mariscus}. {\it Myrica gale} also contributes greatly to the crop mass of these latter stands."

The habitat map is based on the 1992 NVC Survey and the 1984 Phase 1 survey.

*A nationally scarce species occurring in between 16 and 100 10km squares in Britain ('Scarce Plants in Britain', D.A.Pearman {\it et al}, 1994).

MANAGE:
Piles of cartridges from clay pigeon shooting were noted during the site visit. The nature reserve at the eastern end of the common is grazed by cattle.

The following information is reproduced from the East Anglian Valley Fen dossier:

The site has survived remarkably unscathed by developments. Traditionally it was used as a "Regulated Common" with both peat cutting and grazing. There have been various proposals for development: afforestation, cultivation, military training, golf course, but these have been resisted, partly because of the Common regulations. Afforestation on land to the south threatened improved drainage, but installation of a sluice along the main drainage stream has mitigated this effect. There have been many bad fires, but these seem to have little damaged the main wetland area. A bigger problem is the expansion of carr, reeds and other more coarse fen vegetation, possibly partly in response to mild nutrient enrichment.

Past excessive disturbance by motor cyclists was noted in the Invertebrate Site Register.

The site appeared to be unmanaged at the time of the 1992 NVC survey though was grazed by cattle, geese and donkeys up to 1939. Accidental burning seems to occur rather frequently but in randomly sized and located patches. This appears to be beneficial in deflecting the overgrowth of {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica tetralix}, maintaining a fine grain, reducing the vigour of potential dominants and thus favouring a higher species density. Some scrub clearance seems to have occurred in the north east of the site. Small craters on the common are associated with past military use which on higher slopes remain dry and unvegetated. 

Nature conservation objectives listed in the Site Objective's Statement are:

1) Maintain the species diversity of the various plant communities.

2) Maintain the groundwater levels that support the above.

3) Prevent the excessive development of scrub/carr woodland.

The following information is reproduced from the Site Management Statement relating to one of the owners' land comprising two blocks to the north and south of the Lynn Road.

The Nature Conservation Objective's are:

a) Maintain areas of wet and dry heath by preventing further encroachment by birch scrub

b) Expand areas of wet and dry heath into areas recently covered by scrub

c) Maintain populations of birds on the site, particularly those which are nationally rare or uncommon.

d) Maintain areas of mature secondary oak/birch woodland.

The suggested management actions are:

Prevent further scrub encroachment onto the land south of the road.

Clear scrub from specified areas of heathland. All cut material should either be removed from the heathland area and stacked in the woodland edge to form habitat piles for invertebrates, or removed from the site. Treat most cut stumps with glyphosate to prevent regrowth. All cutting should be carried out between late August and early March to prevent disturbance to breeding birds.

Retain a screen of scrub/trees to shield the site from the road and deter access.

Leave a few birch stumps untreated to allow regrowth for nightjars.

Leave one or two of the larger mature Scots pines and birch trees in specified areas for use as song posts. Create bare areas of ground around the base of these trees.

Leave one birch trunk standing with the crown removed. This may encourage nightjars and be used as a churring post.

When the scrub has been cleared, forage harvest the open heather areas in rotation.

Prevent bracken invasion onto the heath areas by spraying the invading edges with Asulam.

Manage the mature oak/birch woodland by non-intervention.

The current level of clay pigeon shooting on the southern portion of land is allowed although we would not wish to see the intensity of shooting increase.

Recreational shooting on the land may continue at current levels.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, crow, swallow.

VEG:
The common was viewed from the southern end and the public road on the valley side to the SW, using binoculars. Over 50 percent of its area appears to be occupied by dense stands of {\it Urtica dioica}. The heavily grazed improved grassland occupies the remaining area. The following species were visible in the sward from the southern boundary: {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne, Poa} spp., {\it Bellis perennis, Ranunculus repens, Taraxacum officinale} agg. Occasional wet areas (too small to map) contain scattered {\it Mentha aquatica} and {\it Phalaris arundinacea}.

MANAGE:
Used for intensive horse grazing. Very intensive grazing may have promoted the spread of {\it Urtica dioica} on this common.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, yellowhammer.

VEG:
The canopy is dominated by {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} with locally frequent {\it Betula pendula} and (on wet ground) {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. There is also occasional {\it Fagus sylvatica} (saplings under 4m high), {\it Quercus cerris, Q. robur, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Ulmus procera}. There is regeneration of all these species but most abundantly of {\it A. pseudoplatanus}. The age range is wide but, except for scattered mature standards (trunk diameter over 60cm at chest height), few trees have trunk diameters (TD) greater than 40cm at chest height (ACH). In the northern quarter, there are distinct stands of trees of a similar age (TD less than 10cm ACH) which may have been planted.

There is an understorey of frequent scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum} plus occasional {\it Ilex aquifolium, Ribes uva-crispa, Rosa} sp. and {\it Tamus communis}.

The ground flora is exceptionally diverse. There are carpets of {\it Adoxa moschatellina, Allium ursinum, Hedera helix} and {\it Ranunculus ficaria} with frequent {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum, Dryopteris dilatata, Galium aparine, Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Glechoma hederacea, Mnium hornum, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Sanicula europaea, Silene dioica} and {\it Thuidium tamariscinum} plus occasional {\it Arum maculatum, Dactylorhiza} sp., {\it Dryopteris filix-mas, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Hypericum androsaemum, Phyllitis scolopendrium} and {\it Smyrnium olusatrum}.

Areas of saturated ground in the central area support abundant {\it Filipendula ulmaria} with frequent {\it Caltha palustris, Circaea lutetiana} and {\it Valeriana} sp., occasional {\it Angelica sylvestris, Eupatorium cannabinum, Phragmites australis} and {\it Solanum dulcamara}. A small drainage ditch in this area (less than 1m wide and 0.5m deep) is fringed with frequent {\it Carex pendula} and {\it Mentha aquatica}.

Along eastern edge of the canopy (along the access track), there is frequent {\it Anisantha sterilis, Dactylis glomerata, Alliaria petiolata, Stachys sylvatica} and {\it Urtica dioica} plus occasional {\it Pentaglottis sempervirens} and {\it Rumex obtusifolius}.

MANAGE:
Some standing and fallen deadwood has been left {\it in situ}, it would be desirable for this practice to continue.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted during the survey: chaffinch, chiffchaff, house sparrow, woodpigeon. 3 common frogs were seen in the northern half, where there is also evidence of localized rabbit grazing.

The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

"The invertebrate fauna is particularly rich with the wet, boggy areas supporting a population of the notable Bog brush cricket ({\it Metrioptera brachyptera}) and the only known East Anglian population of the Keeled skimmer dragonfly ({\it Orthetrum coerulescens})."

VEG:
The following information is reproduced from the SSSI Citation:

"The extensive areas of dry heathland on undulating ground are dominated by Heather ({\it Calluna vulgaris}) with Bell heather ({\it Erica cinerea}), Western gorse ({\it Ulex gallii}) and Bracken ({\it Pteridium aquilinum}). The spread of scrub and secondary woodland has been checked by periodic fires, and recent management.

An acidic mire community in the tributary valley receives drainage waters from the surrounding heathland on glacial drifts. Plants characteristic of these wet, acidic conditions include several species of Bog moss ({\it Sphagnum} spp.), Cross-leaved heath ({\it Erica tetralix}), Round leaved sundew ({\it Drosera rotundifolia}), Common butterwort ({\it Pinguicula vulgaris}), Common cotton-grass ({\it Eriophorum angustifolium}) and Heath rush ({\it Juncus squarrosus}). Thre is a narrow zone of calcareous mire along the axis of the tributary stream but this community is better developed on flushed slopes above the River Glaven. A typically diverse calcareous fen vegetation has developed with Blunt flowered rush ({\it Juncus subnodulosus}), Black bog-rush ({\it Schoenus nigricans}), Great sundew ({\it Drosera anglica}), Grass of Parnassus ({\it Parnassia palustris}), Twayblade ({\it Listera ovata}) and Bog pimpernel ({\it Anagallis tenella}) over a discontinuous bryophyte carpet.

Areas of nutrient rich fen on the valley floor of the Glaven resemble some of the Broadland fens with Common reed ({\it Phragmites australis}), Blunt flowered rush, Southern marsh orchid ({\it Dactylorhiza praetermissa}), Meadowsweet ({\it Filipendula ulmaria}) and Bogbean ({\it Menyanthes trifoliata}). Carr woodland, dominated by Alder ({\it Alnus glutinosa}) with Birch ({\it Betula pubescens}) and Ash ({\it Fraxinus excelsior}), is spreading onto areas of open fen. 

The ground flora includes Wood horsetail ({\it Equisetum sylvaticum}) at its only known surviving East Anglian locality."

The habitat map is based on the 1988 NVC survey.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent livestock grazing was seen. Some encroachment of scrub and trees onto the dry heath has occurred in the southern half of the common.


FAUNA:
Ringed plovers nest on the common (National Sand Dune Vegetation Survey). For a full description of the fauna of the SSSI, please see under the entry for CL65.

VEG:
CL122 is one of a series of adjoining commons on the North Norfolk coast which lie within the North Norfolk Coast SSSI. Please see under the entry for CL65 for a description of the SSSI. The common comprises a path leading from the west of Titchwell to the coast crossing the saltmarsh and a narrow strip running parallel to the coast, just below the mean high water level. The western end comprises a small area of dunes. The dunes on the common were included in the National Sand Dune Vegetation Survey (Site report No. 70, Thornham, Titchmarsh and Brancaster Dunes, 1990) as part of the section called Brancaster Manor dunes (the western end) and the following information is reproduced from that report.

The western limit of Brancaster Manor dunes is marked by a breach. The dune ridge is low at this point and rich in {\it Elytrigia juncea} with a well marked strandline; there appears to be little or no progradation. Ringed plovers nest here.

Further east, an {\it Elymus farctus (Elytrigia juncea)} (SD4) or {\it Elymus farctus-Ammophila arenaria} (SD6a) foredune of variable width occurs, at one point causing sand accretion at the site of an old washover and forming new dunelets. The general state of much of the coastline here suggests both small scale erosion and accretion, although, generally, the coastline is probably retreating. Evidence for this comes from the fact that wartime bunkers are now to be found far out on the sand flats.

Species of note are {\it Festuca arenaria} and {\it Vulpia fasculata}, both nationally scarce*.

*A nationally scarce species occurring in between 16 and 100 10km squares in Britain ('Scarce Plants in Britain', D.A.Pearman {\it et al}, 1994).


FAUNA:
Little tern, oystercatcher and ringed plover nest on the common (National Sand Dune Vegetation Survey). For a full description of the fauna of the SSSI, please see under the entry for CL65.

VEG:
CL124 is one of a series of adjoining commons on the North Norfolk coast which lie within the North Norfolk Coast SSSI. Please see under the entry for CL65 for a description of the SSSI. The dunes on the common were included in the National Sand Dune Vegetation Survey (Site report No. 70, Thornham, Titchmarsh and Brancaster Dunes, 1990) and the following information is reproduced from that report.

Brancaster golf course occupies much of the dunes on the common. There is serious foredune erosion at the western end of Brancaster golf course and concrete sea defences have been installed.

The golf course is developed over what was probably dune grassland, with the original community persisting intact in a few places. It consists of a rather species rich SD11 sward over slightly acidic sand, with {\it Festuca longifolia} (nationally rare*), {\it Pilosella officinarum, Galium verum, Dicranum scoparium, Bromus hordeaceous} and a variety of lichens conspicuous. It persists on the majority of fairway 'roughs' in an impoverished form. In areas closer to the saltmarsh, to the east, a sward of {\it Elytrigia atherica} and {\it Festuca rubra} assumes persistence. The general state of the sward is healthy with only local poaching by people/vehicles or heavy grazing.

The main foredune ridges and very oldest laterals to the east have not been modified by the golf course. The former comprises a classic sequence with {\it Leymus arenarius-Elymus farctus (Elytrigia juncea)} SD5b foredune and well marked strandline together with {\it Ammophila arenaria-Elymus farctus (Elytrigia juncea)} and scattered {\it Leymus arenarius} behind (SD6b). Landward of this are SD6e and SD7e communities. {\it Rhinanthus minor} is generally very frequent over the whole dune system, but {\it Elytrigia atherica} was largely absent from the foredune in contrast with the neighbouring sites.

At the eastern end of the site the dunes consist of a foredune ridge with several laterals projecting into the saltmarsh. This is the widest and most complex area where the vegetation is a mixture of dune and saltmarsh communities. The raised laterals form a regular pattern of dune grassland, or fairways, fringed by SM25 with other saltmarsh communities in the troughs. The saltmarsh influence extends the length of the golfcourse on the landward side with common transitions between SD11-SM16 and SD7e-SM24.

There is some progradation, unusual in that it is in an easterly direction, most progradation on the north Norfolk coast is westward. This may be because it is sheltered from the dominant waves by the spit of Scolt Head Island, and is subject, instead, to strong flood tides entering Brancaster Harbour. Some access to the accreting foredune was denied at the time of the survey because of nesting shorebirds (little tern, oystercatcher and ringed plover).

As a whole there is a wide range of grassland types on the site with several noteworthy species: {\it Festuca longifolia} (nationally rare*), {\it Potentilla argentea, Vicia lathyroides} and {\it Descurainia sophia}. The adjacent saltmarsh has the nationally scarce** {\it Juncus acutis} and the rare {\it Suaeda-Limonium-Frankenia} community type.

Other habitats on the common include large areas of saltmarsh and intertidal sand and mud.

*Nationally rare species are those occurring in 15 or few 10 km squares in Britain.

**Nationally scarce species are those occurring in between 16 and 100 10 km squares in Britain (D.A. Pearman {\it et al} (1994), 'Scarce Plants in Britain')

MANAGE:
There is little information on the management of this common. Part is managed as a golf course over what was probably formerly dune grassland. Most of the SSSI is managed for nature conservation by the National Trust, the Norfolk Naturalists' Trust, Norfolk Ornithologists Association, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and English Nature.


FAUNA:
For a description of the fauna associated with the SSSI, please see under the entry for CL65.

VEG:
CL132 is one of a series of adjoining commons on the North Norfolk coast which lie within the North Norfolk Coast SSSI. Please see under the entry for CL65 for a description of the SSSI. The western section of the common supports sand dunes and saltmarsh. The section at TF716450 supports {\it Pinus nigra} woodland, {\it Hippophae rhamnoides} scrub and a limited amount of sand dune vegetation. The common was included in the National Sand Dune Vegetation Survey (Site report No. 69, Hunstanton and Holme Dunes, 1989) together with CL32. The information from this report is reproduced under the entry for CL32. The habitat map is also largely based on this report.

MANAGE:
Please see under the entry for the adjoining CL32 for information on the management of this section of the dunes.


FAUNA:
Common frog, chiffchaff, woodpigeon, magpie, robin, coot, blue tit, great tit and the butterflies orange-tip and large white were recorded during the site visit.

The common supports a varied fauna including the rare great crested newt, common toad, common frog, slow worm, adder and common lizard. Invertebrates of the common include the scarce white admiral and the small mammals found include all three shrew species (water shrew, pygmy shrew and common shrew) and a wide range of birds including teal, woodcock, lesser whitethroat, sedge warbler and redpoll which breed on the common and barn owl and sparrowhawk which regularly feed there. Red, fallow, muntjac and roe deer also use the site regularly (Site Management Plan, 1993).

VEG:
Upgate Common is topographically fairly flat but slopes gently down to the north and drains into a stream which flows west along the northern boundary. Glacial sands and gravels cover most of the site, giving way to shallow peats on low-lying ground with drainage impeded by the stream (Alderford Beck, a tributary of the River Wensum). Numerous small hollows and pools also occur, relics of ancient gravel extraction activities. The valley fen is believed to be fed exclusively from groundwater and run-off originating from the sands and gravels covering the site and does not carry any noticeable calcareous influence from the underlying chalk aquifer (Site Management Plan, 1993). 

The following is an extract from the SSSI citation:

"These variations in soils and wetness and a variable topography have provided conditions for the development of an exceptionally wide range of semi-natural vegetation including dry acidic heathland, wet heathland with acidic flushes, fen, birch and alder woodland, scrub, bracken, rough grassland and ponds. These plant communities are distributed in such a manner that interesting transitions between the different associations are clearly seen."

Near the road there is dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, crossed by paths, with frequent scattered {\it Cytisus scoparius, Betula pendula, Crataegus monogyna} and some {\it Sambucus nigra, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Rosa} sp. There is frequent {\it Chamerion angustifolium} amongst the {\it P. aquilinum} and patches of {\it Ceratocapnos claviculata} and {\it Galium aparine}, locally frequent {\it Glechoma hederacea} and frequent {\it Teucrium scorodonia}. There are scattered patches of {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Lamium album}. {\it Holcus mollis} is frequent along the paths. 

The woodland at the western end comprises a canopy of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur} with frequent {\it Crataegus monogyna, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Prunus spinosa} and occasional {\it Corylus avellana, Salix cinerea} and {\it Prunus padus} in the understorey. The ground flora comprises patches of {\it P. aquilinum} with more grassy areas with {\it Holcus mollis}, locally frequent {\it Viola riviniana} and abundant {\it Galium aparine}. There are also frequent areas of leaf litter with scattered {\it R. fruticosus} agg. and {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}. Other ground flora species (recorded along the footpath) were locally abundant {\it Ranunculus ficaria}, locally frequent {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum} and {\it Mercurialis perennis, Geranium robertianum, Conopodium majus, Oxalis acetosella, Silene dioica, Hedera helix, Geum urbanum} and the mosses {\it Mnium hornum} (in wet places) and {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} (in dry places). {\it Geum rivale} and {\it Galium aparine} were recorded in the wetter area along northern edge.

There is a very good small pond along the northern boundary fringed with abundant {\it Glyceria fluitans} and scattered {\it Typha latifolia}. Wet banks have {\it Lycopus europaeus, Potentilla palustris, Caltha palustris, Ranunculus flammula, Myosotis aquatica, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Angelica sylvestris, Galeopsis tetrahit, Solanum dulcamara, Juncus effusus}, abundant {\it Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Alnus glutinosus} saplings. {\it Oenanthe fistulosa?} There is much {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Corylus avellana} along the stream (northern boundary) and scattered {\it Viburnum opulus}.

Another small pond has {\it Iris pseudacorus, Caltha palustris, Phalaris arundinacea, Ranunculus flammula} and a wet meadow on the northern edge has {\it Juncus} sp., {\it Caltha palustris} and {\it Carex remota}. There is a series of small ponds along the northern boundary crossed by boardwalks, one surrounded by {\it Alnus glutinosa} saplings, others more open. Other species recorded include {\it Ajuga reptans, Galium palustre, Dryopteris filix-mas, D. dilatata} and {\it Chrysosplenium oppositifolium}. Small wet clearings along the northern boundary support {\it Urtica dioica, Filipendula ulmaria, Cardamine amara?} and {\it Ribes nigrum/rubrum?}.

The central area of woodland is of {\it Quercus robur/Betula} spp. with some old {\it Betula} coppice and mature standard {\it Q. robur} (in east part of wood). There are also some dense stands of young {\it B. pubescens} saplings. The understorey comprises scattered {\it Ilex aquifolium}. The ground flora in this area comprises leaf litter, {\it P. aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Lonicera periclymenum}, occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Ribes} sp. and locally frequent {\it Teucrium scorodonia}. 

Moving further east there is a cleared area supporting wet heath with occasional {\it Molinia caerulea} and occasional to locally frequent {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica tetralix}. There is also abundant {\it Aulocomnium} sp. and frequent {\it Festuca ovina}. {\it Campylopus introflexus} occurs on bare mounds. {\it C. vulgaris} is short (c. 3cm) and {\it M. caerulea} is tussocky but grazed. Also mentioned in this area in the management plan are flush communities with abundant {\it Sphagnum} spp. and an area of dry heath to the east dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}. {\it Erica cinerea} is mentioned in the SSSI citation as occuring in areas of dry heath.

To the north of the latter area is an area of wetland with {\it Carex} sp., {\it Potentilla palustris, Juncus} sp. and {\it Sphagnum} sp. with {\it Equisetum palustre} in scattered pools. {\it Valeriana} sp. {\it Filipendula ulmaria/Juncus effusus} in flush. Has established well where {\it Betula pubescens} felled but with numerous {\it B. pubescens} seedlings. This area is described as open fen in the management plan dominated by {\it Juncus subnodulosus} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria} and supports populations of local plants such as {\it Menyanthes trifoliata, Potentilla palustris, Dactylorhiza praetermissa} and {\it Carex paniculata}. 

This area of wetland was subject to an NVC survey in 1991 as part of the Norfolk Valley Fen Survey which identified the following communities: M25a {\it Molinia caerulea-Potentilla erecta} mire ({\it Erica tetralix} sub-community), an acidophilous community, on the higher surfaces in the east and west. Flushed depressions and gentle slopes in the south support vegetation assigned to S27b {\it Potentilla palustris-Carex rostrata} fen ({\it Lysimachia vulgaris} sub-community) and M24b/c {\it Molinia caerulea-Cirsium dissectum} fen meadow (typical and {\it Juncus acutiflorus-Erica tetralix} sub-communities respectively), the latter characterised by the joint occurrence of both acidophilous and basipholous species including {\it Sphagnum} spp., {\it Juncus subnodulosus, J. acutiflorus, J. conglomeratus, J. inflexus, Valeriana dioica, Carex flacca} and {\it Erica tetralix} amongst others. Moving north the vegetation on low ground quickly attains the character of a fen meadow (M22c, {\it Juncus subnodulosus-Cirsium palustre} fen-meadow, {\it Carex elata} sub-community). Towards the stream, further changes yield very patchy and coarse grained mosaics of S7 {\it Carex acutiformis} swamp, M27b {\it Filipendula ulmaria-Angelica sylvestris} mire ({\it Urtica dioica-Viccia cracca} sub-community) and S28a {\it Phalaris arundinacea} fen ({\it Phalaris arundinacea} sub-community) all of which are associated in lowland Britain with rather eutrophic, ungrazed conditions. 

Another area of vegetation that appears to be associated with active flushing was mapped as a mosaic of M22d {\it Juncus subnodulosus-Cirsium palustre} fen meadow ({\it Iris pseudacorus} sub-community) and M22d/29 {\it Hypericum elodes-Potamogeton polygonifolius} soakway providing a stronghold for {\it Hypericum elodes} which characterises the latter community. Upgate common was the only site from which M29 was recorded during the 1991 NVC surveys and the SSSI also stands out for the area of S27b present. The fen has generally been presumed to be fed by acidic waters but the abundance of species such as {\it J. subnodulosus, Cladium mariscus} and {\it Carex acutiformis} suggest some degree of base enrichment. The site is listed on the East Anglian Valley Fen Dossier.

The woodland at the eastern end comprises a canopy of {\it B. pubescens} and occasional {\it Quercus robur} with a ground flora of {\it Molinia caerulea, Corydalis} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus, Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum} with leaf litter. There is also scattered {\it Ulex europaeus} and locally frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Festuca ovina} and {\it Pseudoscleropodium purum}. Standing and fallen deadwood has generally been left {\it in situ}. 

Two further ponds were noted by the surveyor at the western end (? eastern end - the surveyor confused east and west the notes for these ponds being amongst those for the eastern end of the common?). They were not identified on the map or grid references given:

The first contains abundant {\it Ranunculus} sp., {\it Myosotis aquatica} and surrounded by stands of {\it Typha latifolia}. {\it Ranunculus flammula, Rumex crispus}. {\it Holcus mollis} frequent in {\it P. aquilinum}. The draw down supports {\it Potentilla palustris, R. flammula} and {\it M. aquatica} fringed with {\it Iris pseudacorus, Cardamine pratensis, Epilobium hirsutum, Rubus fruticosus} agg. {\it Potentilla anserina} is occasional. {\it Urtica dioica/Lunaria} sp. were recorded in the surrounding scrub. 

The second pond supports abundant {\it Menyanthes trifoliata} and {\it Typha latifolia, Potamogeton} sp. Also {\it Lycopus europaeus, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Solanum dulcamara}. {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica, Myosotis scorpioides, Oenanthe} sp. {\it Arum maculatum}.

{\it Chara} spp. and the scarce {\it Hypericum elodes} also occur in the ponds on the common (Management Plan 1993).

Carr woodland (not noted during the field visit) borders the stream, dominated by {\it Alnus glutinosa} with {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it Quercus robur} over a more species-rich ground flora which includes the scarce {\it Chrysosplenium oppositifolium} (Management Plan, 1993). 

The far western corner was mapped as supporting amenity grassland during the field visit but described as species-poor rough grassland in the management plan, dominated by {\it Festuca rubra} and {\it Holcus lanatus}.

30 species of bryophyte were recorded from the common (information undated) and 43 species of fungi in 1982.

MANAGE:
There had been some scrub clearance on the common at the time of the site visit and there was also a chicken pen on the common. At the time of the 1991 NVC survey, the SSSI was being grazed by sheep in blocks. Scrub and bracken clearance had also been carried out. 

The SSSI is a Norfolk Naturalists' Trust reserve. According to the management plan (information reproduced from various sources), traditional commoners' rights to graze stock, collect firewood and turf were excercised extensively: cattle and sheep were regularly herded there during the nineteenth century and numerous horses and ponies hobbled on the common until the end of the Second World War. Goats, geese and ducks were kept near to the road and were still recorded there in 1957. Bracken was still cut at that time on a limited extent and a small amount of burning also took place. Rubbish was dumped, ponies and geese were grazed, a small area was enclosed as a chicken run and there were remains of a cycle speedway. Stock grazing was restricted to that part of the common within the village itself. Rabbits were abundant grazers until 1954 when an attack of myxomatosis reduced the population to very low levels.

In 1993 grazing was restricted to a few tethered goats and horses and a few penned chickens and ducks on the western end of the site. Firewood and logs were still collected by parishioners (a great deal was removed following tree and scrub clearance by the Manpower Services Team in 1985-87), who also use the area for bonfires. Another major use of the Common is recreation and the Public Rights of Way have been encouraged for use as either bridleways (on the drier parts of the site where horse trmapling does less damage) or footpaths (generally wetter areas). Horse riding on the Common has declined substantially in recent years following the closure of the riding stables at Willow cottage on the edge of the common. Dumping of waste occurs in places. Recent management activities include scrub and pond clearance, cutting bracken from dry heath, mowing open fen, path maintenance and waymarking, and in 1981/82 the outlet channel from the fen was dammed using logs and earth to raise water levels following drainage improvements (clearing of streams on the site) by the Wensum Internal Drainage Board (1993, Management Plan). 

The management plan recommended management was initially directed at restoring the vegetation by removing much of the scrub which is encroaching on the open areas and cutting and removing the fen, wet and dry heath vegetation. It was thought that experimental removal of small areas of surface vegetation from the fen and wet heath may encourage the return of rare plants such as {\it Utricularia} spp. ({\it U. minor} and {\it U. intermedia}) and {\it Drosera} spp. (all three species {\it D. anglica, D. intermedia} and {\it D. rotundifolia} occurred on the common in 1931) formerly abundant in these communities. In the longer term it was considered that the vegetation may be more effectively managed by the re-introduction of grazing on the eastern part of the Common. More specific prescriptions were to rake ponds on 5 year rotation with no more than half of any one pond raked in one year and keeping them clear of scrub to the south, cut bracken twice per year from dry heath, mow the fen, wet heath and flushes on a 3 year rotation and dry heath on 10 year rotation, cut scrub from footpaths and bridlepaths to encourage the ride flora, construct and maintain corduroy paths, boardwalks, bridge and existing fencing and to remove dumped waste.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chaffinch, woodpigeon, yellowhammer.

"Among the more interesting breeding birds are nightingale and grasshopper warbler" (SSSI citation).

The site has a rare fly {\it Asteia elegantula} and some notable water beetles (Site Management Plan). 

Nightingales, blackcaps and garden warblers sang and sparrowhawks were also seen. A pool that was recently cleared of willow was thronged by dragon and damselflies with eight species recorded (NNT Newsletter, Winter 1987/88).

VEG:
The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

"The wet heathland is dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} with {\it Erica tetralix} co-dominant and with abundant {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Sphagnum} spp. {\it E. tetralix} and {\it Sphagnum} spp. are abundant in the wet hollows where several interesting species are present including {\it Drosera rotundifolia, Achillea ptarmica, Anagallis tenella, Eriophorum angustifolium, Salix repens} and the rare* {\it Gentiana pneumonanthe}.

In hollows where the peats are less acid, a fen type community has developed that is dominated by {\it Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Juncus subnodulosus} and in these areas {\it Dactylorhiza praetermissa} is abundant. {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Betula pendula} are common and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} dominates the drier areas of the open heath.

The surrounding woodland consists mainly of {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur} with abundant {\it Salix} sp. scrub in the wetter areas. The ground flora is generally sparse and includes {\it P. aquilinum, Holcus mollis} and {\it Circaea lutetiana}."

*A nationally scarce species ie. occurring in between 16 and 100 10 km squares in Britain (D.A. Pearman {\it et al} (1994), 'Scarce Plants in Britain').

MANAGE:
Maintenance of dry open heathland and wet heath communities are listed as nature conservation objectives in the EN site summary.

The following information is reproduced from the 1990 NNT East Winch Common Management Plan (C. Borrell and R. Hobbs):  

"The site has been common land for 200 years and has been used by parishioners for wood poles and grazing. There has also been a history of fires on the reserve. The site was acquired by the Norfolk Naturalists Trust in 1973 and has been managed for conservation since then."

The same report recommends control of the spread of trees, scrub and bracken, the possible expansion of existing pools and creation of new ones, and the retention of the fringing woodland as it screens the common from the A47 and surrounding arable land, but coppicing of other areas of woodland in rotation to improve diversity.

There was a ten acre fire on the common in May 1987. Five of the existing pools had been cleared of stumps and litter, or extended to help prevent drying out, to provide better breeding sites for Odonata and other aquatic insects and plants. Work was planned to continue attacking birch regrowth and recolonisation and it was also hoped to make more impact on the bracken-dominated compartment in the next few years (NNT Newsletter, Winter 1987/88).

The common is in Countryside Stewardship.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, blackbird, house sparrow, magpie. 4 small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen. The long grass in section 2 contains numerous grasshoppers.

VEG:
The northern section (TG338278) was viewed from the minor public road to the north and a track running along the western boundary. It contains broadleaved woodland with a mixed canopy of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} with occasional {\it Alnus glutinosa}. There is good regeneration. In the area visible, trunk diameters rarely exceed 35cm at chest height. There is an area of {\it Salix} sp. dominated scrub near the northern boundary. The ground flora is dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with locally abundant {\it Urtica dioica} and scattered {\it Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Phragmites australis}. Along the track, there are small, peripheral areas of rank grassland dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with occasional {\it Urtica dioica}.

The southern section (TG340276) was viewed from the track to the west using binoculars; it contains rank grassland which appears to be dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus}. This latter area lies within the East Ruston Common SSSI, a large area of unimproved heathland and fen in the valley of a tributary of the River Ant. There is a very clear zonation of vegetation types within the SSSI from acidic grassland through acidic flush and fen to carr woodland on the lowest-lying ground. This section of the common lies adjacent to the Hundred stream. The following is an extract from the SSSI citation relating to the fen vegetation on the lower ground:

"The flushes grade into areas of mixed fen vegetation on low-lying ground. The fen is at first acidic near the slope but soon becomes base-rich towards the Hundred stream. {\it Potentilla palustris} and {\it Juncus effusus} are abundant on the acidic fen but the remaining areas are dominated by {\it Phragmites australis} with {\it Cladium mariscus} co-dominant in places. Typical fenland plants include {\it Calamagrostis canescens, Sparganium erectum, Rumex hydrolapathum, Lotus pedunculatus} and the uncommon {\it Peucedanum palustre}*."

*A nationally scarce species ie. occurring in between 16 and 100 10 km squares in Britain (D.A. Pearman {\it et al} (1994), 'Scarce Plants in Britain').

The SSSI as a whole has undergone fires and dehydration followed by extensive habitat re-creation works (peat stripping), improved hydrology which will result in a very different vegetation distribution for the SSSI.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent management of the woodland in the northernmost section was seen. The rank grassland in the other section is probably cut for hay in late summer and may be grazed over winter. 

The SSSI as a whole has undergone fires and dehydration followed by extensive habitat re-creation works (peat stripping), improved hydrology which will result in a very different vegetation distribution for the SSSI. (information received 7/99).


FAUNA:
Pheasant, chiffchaff and the butterflies large white and meadow brown were recorded during the site visit. There is no reference to the fauna of the site in the SSSI citation.

VEG:
Only a brief site visit was made and the common only viewed from the footpath. The central area was dominated by {\it Filipendula ulmaria} with abundant {\it Holcus lanatus} and frequent {\it Carex nigra?, Juncus effusus} and {\it Rhinanthus minor} and locally abundant {\it Galium verum}. This grades into {\it Phragmites australis} swamp towards the northern boundary. Towards the edges of the common there is {\it Quercus robur} dominated woodland. Other species recorded were locally abundant {\it Ranunculus repens} and locally frequent {\it Lotus pedunculatus} and {\it Juncus inflexus}; also {\it Angelica sylvestris} and scattered {\it Cirsium palustre}. A pond at the southern end of the common supported {\it Typha latifolia, Sparganium erectum} and {\it Hippurus vulgaris}. The pond at the northern end supported dense {\it Sparganium erectum} plus {\it Hippurus vulgaris} and {\it Eleocharis palustris}, bordered by {\it Urtica dioica, Filipendula ulmaria, Cirsium palustre, Ranunculus flammula} and {\it Myosotis aquatica}. {\it Equisetum telmataeia} was recorded around the edges of the ponds and in the {\it Urtica dioica} dominated ground flora beneath {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees. There are continuous {\it E. telmataeia} stands towards the northern end along the road with locally abundant {\it Galium aparine}, locally frequent {\it Stachys sylvatica} and occasional {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}, grading into {\it F. excelsior} and belt of scattered {\it Salix} sp., {\it Crataegus monogyna, F. excelsior, Alnus glutinosus} and occasional {\it Salix alba}. 

The following is an extract from the SSSI citation:

"Whitwell Common lies in the valley of a tributary of the River Wensum and supports a wide range of wetland plant communities characteristic of peat-based soils. Calcareous flushes are present in low-lying hollows created by past peat cutting and a variety of interesting plants are associated with this uncommon habitat type. Wet valley alder wood, fen communities and unimproved neutral grassland are also represented on the site.

The calcareous flushes are of the type dominated by {\it Schoenus nigricans, Juncus subnodulosus}, bryophytes and other low-growing species. The water table is high throughout the year and plants of interest include {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii, D. praetermissa, Listera ovata, Valeriana dioica, Ranunculus flammula} and {\it Lychnis flos-cuculi}.

The flushes grade into areas of fen grassland that are characterised by {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Festuca ovina} with some {\it J. subnodulosus}. This community is also found on sloping ground around the fen and notable species include {\it Rhinanthus minor, Ophioglossum vulgatum, Carex flacca} and {\it Carex hirta}.

Dry fen, dominated by {\it Filipendula ulmaria} occupies a substantial area. This includes such characteristic species as {\it Angelica sylvestris, Iris pseudacorus, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Typha latifolia}. There are several permanently wet hollows with standing water and abundant {\it Menyanthes trifoliata, Potentilla palustris, Caltha palustris} and {\it Oenanthe fistulosa}. The fen grades into an area dominated by {\it Phragmites australis} on wetter ground. 

Damp grassland and tall herb communities occur on surrounding higher ground. {\it Agrostis canina} is dominant with {\it Achillea millefolium, Potentilla erecta} and an unusual abundance of {\it Equisetum telmataeia}.

Wet valley alder carr on neutral soils occupies the northern part of the site. {\it Alnus glutinosa} is dominant with some {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. The ground flora includes {\it Iris pseudacorus, Carex acutiformis} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria} with {\it Mercurialis perennis} and {\it Lamiastrum galeobdolon} on drier ground." 

The area of fen on the common was subject to an NVC survey in 1992 as part of the Norfolk Valley Fen Survey and was described as follows:

"Much of the fen basin supports species-poor mire (M27, {\it Filipendula ulmaria - Angelica sylvestris} mire) which, as a recurrent type, is associated with the protracted absence of grazing. This assemblage provides a background within which small depressions (old peat cuttings?) and ponds support a range of fen meadow, swamp and aquatic vegetation types.

The north-eastern area of open fen is characterised by a range of juxtaposed assemblages throughout most of which {\it Phragmites} is prominent.

Patchy scrub is present, concentrated on relatively higher ground.

Flushed slopes recorded as associated with {\it Schoeno-juncetum} (M13), (Site Dossier, Wheeler and Shaw, 1992) were probably located but now support only the faintest vestiges of this community type...

The vegetation is closed throughout, excepting some aquatic vegetation where open water or open peripheral mud may be present."

The target notes accompanying the NVC survey include at TG085204, an area of "unimproved, neutral grassland on seasonally, presumably, damp ground. {\it Juncus subnodulosus} is absent in a reasonably even grained sward with the following making up the bulk of the plant cover: {\it Filipendula ulmaria} is present only in occasional scattered patches of a few individuals, abundant {\it Festuca rubra}, frequent to abundant {\it Rhinanthus minor, Holcus lanatus, Equisetum arvense} and {\it Stellaria graminea}, frequent {\it Polygonum persicaria, Arrhenatherum elatius, Poa trivialis, Potentilla anserina, Carex disticha, C. hirta, Lotus pedunculatus}, occasional to frequent {\it Lathyrus pratensis} and {\it C. panicea}, occasional {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Heracleum sphondylium, Centaurea nigra, Dactylorhiza fuchsii} and {\it Juncus inflexus} and rare to occasional {\it Cirsium palustre}." 

Also, the northernmost of the two ponds at the southern end of the common supported "vegetation around a shelving bank of a pond: {\it Juncus inflexus, Alisma plantago-aquatica, Angelica sylvestris, Filipendula ulmaria, Solanum dulcamara, Stellaria palustris, Potentilla palustris, Ranunculus flammula, Carex disticha, Calystegia sepium, Galium aparine} and {\it Ranunculus repens}."

MANAGE:
An extract in the Fen Dossier from 'Whitwell Low Common' states that 'the number of commoners exercising rights seems to have declined steadily through the thirties until by the fifties to my knowledge only two commoners were making use of grazing rights. For many years there had been insufficient money to pay the wages of a hayward and the drains had become silted up, the lowest grazing areas waterlogged and the higher ground overgrown with scrub' (A.Irvins, 1982). Also in the dossier, from 'A Management Plan for Whitwell Common SSSI' (D. Curson and A. Baker, 1982) 'coppicing of alders in the wet woodland took place until approximately 50 years ago. Some alders and hazel near the road appear to have been coppiced more recently.'

In 1982 a report by R.M.Timms stated 'the whole site is neglected with no evidence of grazing or scrub clearance. The southern fen is drying out and becoming rank grassland in places. Scrub encroachment is occurring. The areas of shorter vegetation...appear to be losing their diversity. The site is in need of a management plan to arrest the neglect. The wetter parts...are still of interest and are reminiscent of Broadland fens' (extract in Fen Dossier). In an extract from 1984 'the areas of soligenous mire are badly choked with collapsed {\it Juncus subnodulosus}. Suggest that the tall fen vegetation in the southern half of the site is a response to (and perhaps partly a cause of) dessication. No evidence of recent grazing, though the vegetation below electricity cables is cleared regularly' ('A Management Plan for Whitwell Common SSSI, D.Curson and A.Baker, 1982). Proposed management prescriptions were based on mowing and/or grazing and/or burning with other miscellaneous suggestions. 

In the synopsis by Wheeler and Shaw (1992) 'the site appears to have been used for grazing in the past but this has ceased leading to the usual problems of dereliction. The site may also have been subject to dehydration, but recent visits have shown that the seepage slopes are by no means excessively dry, and may even be seasonally wet. The large flat sump that forms the southern part of the site undoubtedly dries out, at least during the summer, but it is far from obvious that this is necessarily a recent feature. Indeed, former provision to maintain the drains across the common may well suggest that it was once better drained than nowadays. Management of certain areas has recommenced recently.' 

At the time of the NVC survey (1993) small patches were grazed by travellers horses. Parts of the fen had been mown towards the end of summer 1992. At the time of the latter survey a management plan was being put into effect involving, since 1989, winter reed cutting, scrub clearance and ditch digging. 

Whitwell Common Management Committee (supported by English Nature) have carried out removal of saplings and cutting and clearing of tall vegetation. Electric paddocks are to be constructed without obstructing the circular path.


VEG:
The scattered and dense scrub on the common is dominanted by {\it Ulex europaeus}; there is also locally frequent {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Sambucus nigra}. The peripheral areas of dense scrub near and along the CL boundary, are interspersed with scattered young trees and small areas of woodland ({\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Betula} sp., {\it Quercus robur}).  

Along paths and tracks, and interspersed within the bracken, there are patches (too small to map) of short, grazed semi-improved acid grassland dominated by {\it Festuca} sp. with frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Bellis perennis, Galium saxatile, Pilosella officinarum} and {\it Rumex actosella}. Along the road, the sward also contains locally frequent {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Erodium} sp., {\it Plantago coronopus} and {\it Potentilla anserina}. 

In the central area of the common, there are also patches of rank, poor semi-improved neutral grassland dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata} with frequent {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Achillea millefolium} plus occasional {\it Bromus hordeaceus, Anisantha sterilis} and scattered {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Torillis japonica}.

The common is a County Wildlife Site described as follows:

"This large neglected common comprises extensive tracts of acidic scrub, with acidic grassland confined to pathways and tracks where the dominant vegetation is excluded by trampling. Secondary woodland occurs on sloping land at the southern periphery and a {\it Crataegus monogyna} hedgerow to the north.

Extensive stands of {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub surrounded by dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} characterise the majority of the site. Scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} is present throughout, although found mainly to the west of a minor road running north-south through the common. East of this road extensive areas of {\it Ulex europaeus} have been burnt, although the {\it U. europaeus} is now regenerating well among the {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Senecio sylvaticus, Rumex acetosella} and {\it Holcus lanatus} currently forming the ground flora. Dense stands of {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Cirsium arvense} form scattered patches on the western side where regeneration after previous burning has not been successful.

Unimproved acidic grassland is now very limited in area. {\it Agrostis capillaris, Deschampsia flexuosa, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Holcus lanatus} are dominant with only occasional herbaceous species such as {\it Rumex acetosella, Galium saxatile, Achillea millefolium} and {\it Campanula rotundifolia} present. Drier or more heavily rabbit grazed patches also include {\it Aira praecox} and bryophytes, while {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium} are present in a ranker sward towards the peripheries.

Occasional areas of neutral to basic grassland are also present, presumably where underlying chalk approaches the surface. Here the sward includes {\it Trisetum flavesens, Galium verum} and {\it Pilosella officinarum}.

On a steeply sloping area along the southern boundary, secondary woodland comprising {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior, Betula pendula} and {\it Ulmus} sp. has developed. Similar woodland is also found between the double {\it Crataegus monogyna} hedge along the northern boundary, with the addition of {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Tilia} sp.

A large, disturbed sand pit is present in the south and this supports a sparse cover of {\it Erodium cicutarium} and {\it Plantago coronopus} with taller herbs occurring in less disturbed areas, including {\it Echium vulgare} and {\it Silene alba}."

MANAGE:
No livestock were seen, but grazing rights may still be exercised. The extent of the dense bracken severely limits the grazeable area available to livestock. According to the CWS description, extensive areas of {\it Ulex europaeus} have been burnt, although the {\it U. europaeus} is now regenerating well among the {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Senecio sylvaticus, Rumex acetosella} and {\it Holcus lanatus} currently forming the ground flora. Dense stands of {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Cirsium arvense} form scattered patches on the western side where regeneration after previous burning has not been successful.


FAUNA:
There are no specific records for fauna from this common, but please see under the entry for CL65 for a description of the fauna associated with the SSSI.

VEG:
CL124 is one of a series of adjoining commons on the North Norfolk coast which lie within the North Norfolk Coast SSSI. Please see under the entry for CL65 for a description of the SSSI. The common lies entirely within the intertidal zone of sand and mud. It is crossed by the Brancaster Harbour Channel which is probably continually changing channel.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, house sparrow, swallow.

VEG:
The common was viewed from the public road only, using binoculars. Within 15m of the road, the sward is short (less than 10cm high) and appears to be a mixture of {\it Agrostis} sp., {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Cynosurus cristatus, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Lolium perenne} with frequent {\it Bellis perennis, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Trifolium repens} plus scattered (ungrazed) {\it Senecio jacobaea}. The sward, further into the distance on both sides of the road, appears to be similar when viewed through binoculars, but on-site survey is required to confirm this.

Drainage ditches contain {\it Crataegus monogyna} at irregular intervals with frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Juncus inflexus} and {\it Urtica dioica}. Where it grows separately from {\it C. monogyna, R. fruticosus} agg. often forms distinct mound shapes on the banks of the ditches; {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} grow through these. 

Along the western boundary, for about 200m south of the road at TL636246, there is a scrubby, discontinuous {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated hedgerow with mature standard {\it Quercus robur} trees. The hedgerows along the road are trimmed and dominated by {\it C. monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. plus occasional {\it Bryonia dioica} and {\it Rosa} sp.

MANAGE:
Used for cattle grazing. The hedgerows along the road are trimmed at least once a year.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, house sparrow, song thrush, yellowhammer. There is evidence of rabbit grazing in the southernmost section.

VEG:
Only a very limited survey of the southernmost section was carried out. All of this area appears to be short acid grassland (sward height is generally less than 6cm) dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca ovina} with locally abundant {\it Galium saxatile, Hypnum cupressiforme, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} and {\it Rumex acetosella}. Along the southern boundary, there is scattered {\it Ulex europaeus} and young {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur}. Occasional shallow drains (dry at time of survey) contain scattered clumps of {\it Juncus effusus}.

The southern end of the northern section was viewed through binoculars only; this area appears to be {\it Betula} dominated woodland.

No further survey was carried out. The following information is an extract from the SSSI citation (this is also relevant to the adjoining CL 145):

"Much of this area (Leziate Fen) consists of seasonally wet, rough grassland  on thin acidic peats. The sward includes Purple moor-grass ({\it Molinia caerulea}), Sheep's fescue ({\it Festuca ovina}), Common bent ({\it Agrostis capillaris}), Sheep's sorrel ({\it Rumex acetosella}) and Soft rush ({\it Juncus effusus}) as co-dominant or dominant species with Marsh pennywort ({\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris}), Devil's bit scabious ({\it Succisa pratensis}), Tormentil ({\it Potentilla erecta}) and Bottle sedge ({\it Carex rostrata}). Heather ({\it Calluna vulgaris}) and Cross-leaved heath ({\it Erica tetralix}) are locally frequent around an area of young, secondary birch woodland and other notable species include Common cotton-grass ({\it Eriophorum angustifolium}), Creeping willow ({\it Salix repens}) and Bog pimpernel ({\it Anagallis tenella}). 

An unusual area of ridges and furrows occurs on part of the fen. The calcareous ridges support a diverse rabbit-grazed sward that includes Red fescue ({\it Festuca rubra}), Quaking grass ({\it Briza media}), Stemless thistle ({\it Cirsium acaule}), Purging flax ({\it Linum catharticum}) and Autumn felwort ({\it Gentianella amarella}). The damp furrows are dominated by Creeping buttercup ({\it Ranunculus repens}) with Lesser spearwort ({\it Ranaunculus flammula}), Water mint ({\it Mentha aquatica}) and Meadowsweet ({\it Filpendula ulmaria})."

MANAGE:
A site management brief for Leziate Fen has been produced by English Nature (it is also relevant to land outside the CL boundary but within the SSSI); its main points are:

(1) Control of grazing. To include careful monitoring of grazing levels on vulnerable areas of deep fen-meadow peat and fencing off areas already eroded by excessive grazing with the aim of restoring fen-meadow vegetation. 

(2) Maintenance of high summer water levels, as this would be benefical to fen-meadow communities. 

(3) Control of ragwort on the ridge and furrow area.

(4) Avoidance of supplementary feeding. 

The general nature conservation objectives for the SSSI as a whole (Leziate, Sugar and Derby Fens) are listed as being: (1) Maintainance of open heathland habitat. (2) Increase the area of wet heath. (3) Maintain species/community diversity. (4) Restore the groundwater levels that support the fen plant communities. (5) Maintain an open fen area.


FAUNA:
The common forms additional parts of CL138. Please see under the entry for that common for a description of the fauna.

VEG:
Additional parts of CL138 largely supporting semi-natural broadleaved woodland with a clearing supporting wet heath/acid grassland mosaic, dry dwarf shrub heath and an area of acid flush. The woodland at the eastern end comprises a canopy of {\it Betula pubescens} and occasional {\it Quercus robur} with a ground flora of {\it Molinia caerulea, Corydalis} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus, Pteridium aquilinum, Lonicera periclymenum} and much leaf litter. Also recorded: scattered {\it Ulex europaeus}, locally frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris?, Festuca ovina} and {\it Pseudoscleropodium purum}. Standing and fallen deadwood has generally been left {\it in situ}. The fragment of the common at the western end supports species-poor rough grassland dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Festuca rubra}. For further information, please see under the entry for CL138.

MANAGE:
Please see under the entry for CL138 for information on the management of this common. The management plan also proposes introducing coppicing of young woodland in parts of the eastern area of woodland to provide fuelwood for parishioners.


FAUNA:
Deer (muntjac?) were noted during the site visit. The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

"The thick {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} scrub provides suitable nesting sites for a wide range of breeding birds including the largest population of Nightingales in East Norfolk. Other notable breeding birds are Lesser Whitethroat, Whitethroat, Turtle Dove, Woodcock and Hawfinch.

The ponds are used as breeding sites by several species of amphibians including a small population of the scarce Great Crested Newt. 

An old lime-kiln is used by bats both as a winter hibernating site and as a daytime roost during the summer months." 

Hawfinch has not been recorded breeding on the site since 1989 (Site Management plan).

The following is an extract from a report on a field visit to Alderford common by the University of East Anglia students:

"Not only is the site important for breeding birds in summer it is also very extensively used as a wintering ground by all five species of British thrush, particularly the winter migrants Fieldfares and Redwings, both for feeding and roosting. Several hundred thrushes have been recorded here from October to January feeding on the haws {\it Crataegus monogyna}, sloes {\it Prunus spinosa}, snowberries {\it Symphoricarpos albus} and hips {\it Rosa canina} many more flying in from surrounding areas to roost at night in the thorn thickets as do other species such as Tree sparrows."

Further information on the bat interest of the site is given in the site management plan:

"The old lime kiln is used for winter hibernation by a number of bat species. Of these Daubenton is the main species. Typically they arrive in ones and twos starting in late September then build up to no more than 10 during the coldest period of the winter, in January or February, and have generally left by the end of March. Odd bats may return to the refuge for a day or two at a time up to early May in years with very cold springs. Typically a few Natterers bats are found in the kiln from about Christmas time whilst a single Brown Long-eared Bat has been recorded on a handful of dates. The greatest number of bats ever found at any one time is 13 of 3 species. It is now widely accepted that less than 10 per cent of bats using a site are ever seen at any one time, therefore Alderford Common kiln should be considered as supporting a hibernating population of over 130 bats."

VEG:
There is a central area of rough grassland with scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} surrounded by {\it Prunus spinosa/Crataegus monogyna} scrub (with locally frequent {\it Sambucus nigra} and occasional {\it Salix} sp.). The scrub is generally dense with good regeneration. Ground flora species recorded were {\it Fragaria vesca, Glechoma hederacea, Ranunculus repens, Scrophularia nodosa, Myosotis} sp., {\it Galium aparine} and {\it Urtica dioica}. {\it Prunus spinosa} forms very dense thickets in places. There are clearings in the scrub supporting {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

Towards the south-west the scrub gives way to {\it Betula pendula} woodland, mostly standards and a few old coppice? Trunk diameters range from 10-30cm ACH. There is a ground flora of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} throughout with frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Other species recorded in the woodland include locally abundant {\it Lonicera periclymenum}, locally frequent {\it Urtica dioica} and occasional {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it Arctium} sp. {\it Silene dioica} and {\it Glechoma hederacea} were recorded along the footpaths. The pond in the woodland supported {\it Myosotis aquatica, Ranunculus} sp. (water crowfoot), {\it Ranunculus flammula, Solanum dulcamara} and some {\it Alnus glutinosa} saplings on one side. A bank along the western boundary supported {\it Mercurialis perennis, Primula vulgaris, Lamiastrum galeobdolon} and {\it Rumex crispus}. Areas of {\it Crataegus monogyna} coppice with {\it Adoxa moschatellina, L. galeobdolon, Geum urbanum, M. perennis, Arum maculatum, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Corydalis} sp. and locally {\it Urtica dioica} was also recorded. 

A small pond at the north-western end of the common is surrounded by {\it Alnus glutinosa} saplings, {\it Juncus inflexus, Myosotis aquatica, Filipendula ulmaria, Epilobium hirsutum, Galium palustre}. Also 'blanketweed' (filamentous alga). {\it Phalaris aruninacea} extends from the stream bank with {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica}. 

The following information is reproduced from the Site Management Plan (1993-98):

The common is gently undulating and slopes to the north-west into the valley of the river Wensum which runs along the western boundary. Most of the site is covered by a thin layer of glacial sands and gravels over a massive glacial erratic of chalk. Topographic variation over the site means that there is a diversity of soil types ranging from acidic soils derived from glacial deposits to base-rich chalk soils in the disused marl pit. The marl pit is situated near the centre of the site and the floor is covered by valuable chalk grassland, the only remaining example of species-rich chalk grassland in East Norfolk.

Almost a decade ago there were several permanent, local, small ponds on the west end of the common. However, some of these ponds are now ephemeral mainly due to more efficient drainage of a neighbouring field and water abstraction which has effectively lowered the water table by a metre. Apart from the stream valley, the common is predominantly dry with no marshy places.

Alderford common supports a wide range of habitats due to the variations in soils and topography, combined with the history of land use on the common. 

The chalk grassland supports a rich mixture of chalk-loving species dominated by {\it Festuca rubra, Koeleria macrantha} and {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum}. Herb species associated with the grassland such as {\it Clinopodium vulgare, Pimpinella saxifraga, Cirsium acaule, Thymus drucei, T. pulegioides, Filipendula vulgaris, Dactylorhiza fuchsii} and {\it Fragaria vesca} also occur. Damp hollows, on low lying ground, have a characteristic flora which includes {\it Mentha aquatica, Hydrocotyle vulgaris} and a large population of {\it Ophioglossum vulgatum}.

Dense scrub comprising {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Rosa} sp. also covers large areas of the site.

There are seven ponds restored/created on the common, supporting aquatic and marshy plants such as {\it Filipendula ulmaria}. One is located within the chalk grassland area, the others around the west end of the site.

Secondary woodland developed over former heathland/acid grassland is dominated by {\it Betula pendula} in the west. Isolated patches of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} woodland also occur. Large dense stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} also occupy former heathland/acid grassland areas on acidic soils. Open bracken heath and dense scrub surround the marl workings. Two ponds are also present and a small marshy area has developed around one with abundant {\it Filipendula ulmaria}."

39 species of bryophyte were recorded from the common on 27th April 1991 by the East Anglian Bryologists Group....

MANAGE:
The following information is reproduced from the 1993-98 management plan:

"In the 18th, 19th and early 20th century, the site was extensively used for excavation of the underlying marl, gravel and sand. A lime-kiln was constructed on the chalk in the bottom of the marl pit, in the middle of the site, beside the main road at the time. The kiln was probably in use until the 1930's. The fact that chalk grassland is present on this site is due entirely to this industrial activity. 

Traditionally, commoners exercised similar rights to those of the adjacent Upgate Common which include rights to graze stock, collect firewood and turf. Cattle and sheep were regularly herded there during the 19th century and numerous horses and ponies were hobbled on the Common until the end of the Second World War.

Current land use comprises some light grazing by goats tethered opposite the houses and collection of firewood by local people. 

Unauthorised tipping of domestic waste on the Common has been extensive and is still evident in some places. The unauthorised use of the common for motorcycle scrambling has also increased in the recent past."

"Changes in drainage and water abstraction within the groundwater catchment area have in the past affected pond water levels and will continue to do so..." Compensation has enabled remedial action to be carried out to rectify the desiccation of the ponds but "it is felt that the lowering of the water table may have a deleterious effect upon the hibernating bats in the kiln as {\it Myotis} bats require very high relative humidity (nearly 100 per cent). Water quality may also be affected by nutrient-rich run-off from nearby agricultural land, which could detrimentally affect the ponds."

Management activities on the common since 1981 are summarised in the management plan and include scrub clearance in the marl pit, the fitting of a concrete cap, Bat-ZZZ-Bricks and grille to the kiln, bracken cutting and cutting/clearing rank vegetation on chalk grassland and treating of {\it Crataegus monogyna} regrowth, cutting back scrub along path and around ponds especially in the west and south and mowing of open grassland.

"The decline in traditional management techniques, especially grazing has led to the rapid succession and invasion of the open areas by bracken and scrub. The build-up of decaying vegetation also adds nutrients to the soil which threaten the survival of many rare and interesting species, particularly the delicate chalk flora which is adapted to low-nutrient conditions.

Habitat management must therefore initially be directed at restoring and preserving the open chalk grassland area by removing and preventing scrub encroachment whilst keeping the grass short (annual mowing). Bracken should be cut and removed to control encroachment onto open grassland areas to create and maintain a structurally diverse sward. In the longer term, vegetation may be more effectively managed by the reintroduction of sheep grazing on open grassland areas.

Dense scrub is ideal for nesting birds such as Nightingales. Coppicing blocks of scrub annually on a 20 year rotation will encourage new growth and keep scrub under control. Areas of scrub surrounding chalk grassland should be progressively cut back to increase the grassland area.

Pond raking in the winter on a rotational basis (every 6 years) is required to control hydroseral succession that may threaten pond species, more importantly the scarce Great Crested Newts. Scrub growing onto the banks and overhanging the ponds should be cut.

Succession of dry heathland/acid grassland has also occurred due to a decline in grazing, producing dense stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Betula pendula} scrub over large areas of the common. Restoration of open heath/grassland to these areas will require control of these species."

Additional management objectives include; maintaining, enhancing and waymarking the current system of footpaths in order to limit trampling damage to the paths, replacing the old signboard at the main entrance, removing dumped waste, maintaining the concrete work of the bat hibernaculum and maintain the scrub surround to ensure an unobstructed entrance and suitable microclimate and experimental scraping of small patches of chalk grassland every 3 years to expose the chalk to provide early successional chalk habitat for colonisation by new species.

The common was entered into the Countryside Stewardship scheme in 1993 with management proposals based on the proposals in the management plan. 

Management observations made during the site visit included areas of coppiced scrub, recent excavation of ponds, installation of steps. Some excavation of ponds and a newly created pond were noted during a site visit in 1985.


