The Dumps
Description
Also known as the 'Tinnies', this site is an old lead mine which is now used infrequently for mountain biking. It is the most biodiverse part of the Downs due to its varied habitat types including: grassy slumps, rocky outcrops, scrub, secondary woodland and dry ditches. Being in a sunken, undulating area, the Dumps is naturally warmer than the surrounding area because it is sheltered from the wind. This makes it an ideal warm micro climate for the rich plant and insect life which thrives here. Plant-wise, the site is most notable for its small population of Common Stork's-bill (Erodium circutarium) which is the only site I know of on the Downs. It's also much better for butterflies then the rest of the downs. Marbled White and Common Blue are sustained here. A population of Pigmy Shrew live here and can be heard squeeking and darting about amongst the long grass in around April time. I've even once recorded a Kestrel here.
Threats:
This area is coming under increasing pressure from dog walkers and party going gangs of people, who trample, litter and ruin the flora!
Map
Here is a map showing this place: