Jurassic Coast!

Purbeck’s unique geology is the key to its special character and wildlife. The coast has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status for its internationally famous sedimentary rocks, which were formed over 100 million years ago. Dinosaurs once walked across the soft shoreline sediments, and the remains of an ancient fossil forest can be found east of Lulworth Cove. The natural processes acting upon the rocks have formed today’s attractive landscape including spectacular and world famous features such as Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door. The great diversity of rocks that underlies Purbeck has created a varied range of soils which support a number of habitats. The heathlands, chalk grassland and reedbeds are of international importance for wildlife, including butterflies, birds and plants. Why not experience some of the following habitats during your visit -

The marine environment

Purbeck’s marine habitats occur in two distinct areas, the exposed open coast from Durlston Head to White Nothe, and the sheltered Poole Bay. Rocky limestone reefs are found at Durlston, St. Aldhelm’s Head and Kimmeridge. The wide variety of habitats support wildlife from the seashore to the open sea. The Pier at Swanage helps support wildlife including the Tompot Blenny. Durlston is one of the best places in the country to see dolphins, and boat trips along the coast give great views of the limestone cliffs inhabited by breeding puffins, guillemots and peregrine falcons, or visit the Marine Information Centre at Kimmeridge which contains displays and aquaria.

Rivers and wetlands

The Frome and Piddle are fine examples of chalk rivers. They flow into Poole Harbour, one of the largest natural harbours in the world. This is of international importance for its rich and varied plant and animal life. Around Wareham, the Piddle meadows are rich in wild flowers, whilst from the Frome towards Poole Harbour there are views over saltmarsh and reedbeds. The river and wetland wildlife includes otters, water voles and birds such as redshank, lapwing and black-tailed godwit. To see the wildlife on and around the Frome and Piddle, why not go on one of the Two Rivers Walks? Leaflets can be purchased from the Purbeck Information and Heritage Centre, Holy Trinity Church, South Street, Wareham.

Purbeck’s grasslands, downs and meadows

The Purbeck coast, ridge, Lulworth Ranges and Corfe Common are all important grassland sites. They form the stronghold for species such as Lulworth skipper and Adonis blue butterflies, early gentian, early spider orchid and wild chamomile. To maintain these areas requires grazing by cattle or ponies, and scrub management. For more information about enjoying this habitat you can buy a leaflet ‘Exploring Corfe Common’, available from the National Trust shop in Corfe Castle, or a ‘walks pack’ around Lulworth Estate, available from the Heritage Centre in Lulworth.

Heathland

This unique habitat lies at the heart of Purbeck. Heathland is very important for biodiversity in the landscape and supports many rare species including Dorset heath nightjar, Dartford warbler, marsh gentian, sand lizard, ladybird spider and smooth snake. Heathland is threatened by invading scrub, and restoring heathland is a key part of the conservation work in Purbeck. Studland Heath and Hartland Moor are both heathland National Nature Reserves where you can see some of Purbeck’s rare heathland plants and animals.  Up to date information on wildlife is provided at Durlston Country Park in Swanage and the Purbeck Information and Heritage Centre in Wareham.

If you want to find out more about the wildlife or heritage of Purbeck, many organisations offer guided walks, talks and boat trips.

For information on any of the above, please contact the Purbeck Information and Heritage Centre on 01929 552740.