Habitats and Ecology

Key Stages 3 & 4

As/A2 and Higher Education please see below

The diverse habitats of the Lulworth area are home to a wealth of unusual and exciting plants and animals, including a number of nationally rare species.

This session begins at the Heritage Centre with an introductory slide show and discussion covering the basic ecology of the area, habitat types, the historical influence of man and present day management.

Out in the field the main focus will be on downland wildlife and its conservation with reference to key species of plants and animals.  Practical tasks can be undertaken.

Topics, which can be included:

• Identification and classification
• Survey methods
• Adaptation
• Food chains and webs
• Niches and competition
• Relationships between species
• Present day management

The seasonal and site related nature of many of the topics mean that the exact content of the tour may vary.  Your individual requirements can be accommodation by prior arrangement.  Sessions can be blended together if required.  Best undertaken between April and September.

Ecology and Management of Chalk Downland

AS/A2 and Higher Education

A look at the ecology of the chalk downland and the employment of traditional and modern management techniques.  Lulworth Estate runs a Grasslands Project to maximise biodiversity across a suite of 12 sites.  A biological survey team is employed each summer to monitor sites and ecological experiments,   This data is used to drive grazing regimes and maximise the benefits of scrub management.  Restoration of abandoned sites and arable reversion techniques are in practise.  The impact of tourists on these areas is discussed.

To discuss or book a session, please telephone the rangers on 01929 400155

Lulworth Minitour | Rocks and Landforms | Habitats and Ecology | Tourism and Management | Prices and Information