Thursley Common

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Thursley Common, looking towards Pudmore Pond

Thursley Common is a broad stretch of heathland common land in the south-west of Surrey.

The Common contains some 860 acres of heathland, stretched between the villages of Thursley and Elstead. Sitting in the space between the North Downs and the Weald, the land here is generally 200 to 300 feet above sea-level.

History

In 2006, 60% of the common was burnt, but was regenerating by 2010.[1]

Wildlife

A common lizard on a boardwalk

The whole common has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a national nature reserve.[2]

This is one of the last remaining heathlands in Surrey. It is famed for its diverse wildlife. Whilst crossbill, red kite, woodlark and stonechat are regularly seen, birds such as Dartford warbler, whinchat, wheatear, tree pipit and redstart are frequently encountered. Rarer birds include osprey, black redstart and great grey shrike.

Thursley Common, looking over the bog pools in wintertime

Outside links

References