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Size: 60ha.
High on a steeply sloping area of the North Dorset Downs, this reserve has far-reaching views across the Blackmore Vale. Interspersed scrub and woodland provide shelter for many species of butterfly, while the open chalk grassland of the lower slopes is covered in wildflowers in the spring and summer months.
Wildlife interest:
- A huge variety of wild flower species can be found including 9 different orchids & the rare early gentian.
- Many butterflies are seen on the southern slopes including Adonis & chalkhill blues & silver spotted skippers.
- Skylarks often sing above.
Best time to visit:
Spring & early summer
Access:
Steep slopes in some parts.
Location:
Map ref: ST 887176. Access from the C13 top road between Shaftesbury & Blandford, opposite Compton Abbas airfield. Parking at the National Trust car park at the top of Spread Eagle Hill.
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