Some of the species to be seen
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-thumb.jpg "Common Field Grasshopper")
Welcome to Beeston Regis and Sheringham Commons SSSI/SAC
- a NATURA 2000 site
- a NATURA 2000 site
The Commons lie south of the Sheringham to Cromer Road (A149), just to the east of Sheringham. A layby (TG63/166425) can be used for parking and access is through an opening approximately midway along the road. The Commons do have some waymarked trails although those with a more adventurous spirit can take smaller paths, however, as much of the Commons are wet it is advisable to wear stout shoes or boots. Dogs are allowed but would owners please keep them under close control and clear up after them removing any faeces (Bins are present at points around the site – see location map). Dog owners should also note that adders are present on the Commons between April and September.
Together the Commons consist of 24.7 hectares/61 acres of grassland, heath, marsh, fen and secondary woodland. They are administered by Sheringham Town Council (Beeston Regis Common) and the local Poores and Ploughlet Charity (Sheringham Common). Both Commons are presently under the management of Natural England (Norfolk Team) although local volunteers working through the Beeston Common Management Group carry out many day-to-day tasks.
Broad-bodied Chaser
The varied habitats hold a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna. Over 400 flowering plants have been recorded including no less than 14 British orchids and varieties. With such a variety of flowers the site is attractive to butterflies and 26 species have been regularly recorded including green hairstreak, brown argus and Essex skipper.
In some years many hoverflies, moths and beetles are found. The pond has been permanent since 1984 and no fewer than 19 species of dragonfly/damselfly have been observed. The latest addition to the list is the small red-eyed damselfly (2001). Emperor and broad-bodied chaser dragonflies are very noticeable in June/July.
Kingfisher and heron are also visitors to the pond, the former mainly in the winter months. Snipe and woodcock also frequent the marshes during the winter.
In spring and summer many warblers are present with most breeding, such as chiffchaff, willow warbler, blackcap, common whitethroat, lesser whitethroat, reed warbler and occasionally sedge warblers. Nightjars are occasionally heard,
In spring and summer many warblers are present with most breeding, such as chiffchaff, willow warbler, blackcap, common whitethroat, lesser whitethroat, reed warbler and occasionally sedge warblers. Nightjars are occasionally heard,
Common Lizard
most birds coming down from the Cromer – Holt ridge to hunt moths and other insects during the breeding season. Foxes and muntjac deer are present with smaller mammals also well represented such as, water shrew, field vole and harvest mouse. As mentioned above adders are present as are grass snake, slow-worm and common lizard. The following pages indicate through photographs and data lists some of the extent and diversity of the wildlife in this area. more