Winsley Mines: A Vital Sanctuary for Greater Horseshoe Bats
Located near the village of Winsley in Wiltshire, England, Winsley Mines serves as a critical refuge for one of the region's most specialized mammal species. This small but ecologically significant area is dedicated to the preservation of rare wildlife and the maintenance of essential hibernation habitats.
Key Facts
- Location: Near Winsley, Wiltshire, England (Grid reference ST795607).
- Size: 1.48 hectares.
- Status: Biological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
- Primary Purpose: Hibernation roost for the Greater Horseshoe bat.
- Conservation Network: Part of the Bath and Bradford-on-Avon Bats Special Area of Conservation (SAC).
- Notification Year: 1989.
Ecological Significance and Conservation Status
Winsley Mines was officially notified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in 1989. An SSSI is a conservation designation used in the United Kingdom to protect areas of particular biological or geological importance.
The site spans 1.48 hectares and is specifically managed to protect the Greater Horseshoe bat. For these bats, the mines provide a stable environment necessary for hibernation, a state of minimal activity and metabolic depression that allows them to survive the winter months.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Integration with Regional Conservation
The importance of Winsley Mines extends beyond its own boundaries. It is an integral component of the Bath and Bradford-on-Avon Bats Special Area of Conservation (SAC). A Special Area of Conservation is a site designated under European-level protections to ensure the survival of endangered species and habitats across the continent.
Site Summary
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Grid Reference | ST795607 |
| Total Area | 1.48 hectares |
| Designation Date | 1989 |
| Primary Species | Greater Horseshoe bat |
| Conservation Level | SSSI and SAC |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary purpose of Winsley Mines?
Winsley Mines serves as a critical hibernation roost for the Greater Horseshoe bat, providing the specific environmental conditions these animals need to survive winter.
Where exactly is Winsley Mines located?
It is located near the village of Winsley in Wiltshire, England, at the grid reference ST795607.
What does the SSSI designation mean for this site?
Being a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) means the land is legally protected due to its significant biological value, ensuring the habitat remains undisturbed for the species it supports.
How does this site relate to the Bath and Bradford-on-Avon Bats SAC?
Winsley Mines is one of the constituent sites that make up the larger Bath and Bradford-on-Avon Bats Special Area of Conservation, contributing to a broader network of protected habitats for the species.
How large is the protected area of Winsley Mines?
The site covers a total area of 1.48 hectares.