Lowland Meadows
Lowland meadows are species-rich grasslands occurring on soils with a neutral pH, in the lowlands. They are traditionally managed by hay cutting and/or grazing, and usually contain a high number of colourful herb species.
Photo: Richard Cobden/Sussex Wildlife Trust
Why are they important?
- They are botanically rich including uncommon species such as Green-winged Orchid and Frog Orchid.
- A diversity of herbs provides nectar for a range of invertebrates including butterflies, bees and moths.
- Many lowland meadows are ancient habitats with a long history of management.
- They are important for birds such as Corncrake and Skylark.
Lowland Meadows in Sussex
Sussex’s lowland meadows are predominantly made up of Crested Dog’s-tail and Black Knapweed grassland (National Vegetation Classification MG5). There are just over 1300 hectares in Sussex, predominantly in the High and Low Weald, which represents a significant proportion of the UK resource.
What are the threats?
- Agricultural improvement including drainage, re-seeding and conversion to arable production.
- A decline in the perceived agricultural value of species-rich meadows and hay in farming.
- Lack of appropriate management including overgrazing, resulting in trampling, and neglect, resulting in scrub encroachment.
- Isolation and fragmentation of sites reduces opportunities for animals and plants to disperse making them more susceptible to extinction.
- Development activities.
Some associated species
- Barn Owl Tyto alba
- Serotine Eptesicus serotinus
- Chimney Sweeper Odezia atrata
- Hornet Robberfly Asilus crabroniformis
- Yellow Rattle Rhinanthus minor
- Adder’s-tongue Ophioglossum vulgatum
Photo: Laurie Jackson
Where to visit
Brickfield Meadow
Buchan Country Park
Sussex Targets
Biodiversity Action Reporting System Website
Links to more information
After Minerals
Buglife
Floodplain Meadows Partnership
The Grasslands Trust
The Grazing Advice Partnership
Weald Meadows Initiative
