WARTON CRAG

Contact:

Heysham Reserves Manager

Tel No:  07979 652138 

Amenities: 

Opening and Closing Times:

Car park and picnic area open at all times.

Area Description:

A prominent limestone hill that gives extensive views of Morecambe Bay to the south west and the Kent Estuary with the southern Lakeland Fells behind in the north west and Ingleborough with the Yorkshire Dales to the east. The mixture of woodland, open glades and rocky ledges provides an opportunity to experience a wide array of wildlife.

Best times to visit:

Spring, summer and autumn are best with flowers and insects the main attraction.  A visit to nearby Leighton Moss can result in a great day out and contribute to a great birding list.

Key Flora:

This is quite simply a cracking area for the botanist to explore with a whole host of specialist species on show as well as an abundance of commoner flowers. Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Hazel, Rose, Buckthorn, Spindle, Privet, Dogwood and Juniper are common with Wood Anemones, Bluebells, Primroses, Early Purple Orchids, Violets, Pignut and Wood Sorrel, Horseshoe Vetch, Sanicle, Kidney Vetch and Bird's-Foot- Trefoil and Rock Rose. Ferns and lichens are well represented too.

Key Fauna:

The lepidopterist can enjoy many a delight here over the course of the year with Pearl Bordered Fritillary, Small Pearl Bordered Fritillary, High Brown Fritillary, Dingy Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Brimstone, Cistus Forester, Chimney Sweeper and other day flying moths all distinct possibilities. Bird interest comes in the shape of Lesser and Common Whitethroat, Raven, Buzzard, Jackdaw, Blackcap, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Little Owl and nesting Peregrine Falcons. Roe Deer are elusive.

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