Parley Common, Protected heathland in Dorset, England.
The 168-hectare reserve contains dry heath zones in northern sections and damp heath areas in southeastern regions, supporting diverse plant communities and wildlife species.
The land was divided into narrow strips during the 1600s for peat extraction, with some sections extending two miles while maintaining only 22 yards in width.
Scientists documented the first British sighting of the smooth snake at Parley Common in 1853, marking a milestone in national natural history research.
Visitors can access the reserve from Barrack Road in Ferndown, with paths connecting to a free parking area near Tesco on Ringwood Road.
The reserve hosts all six native British reptile species, including sand lizards that create burrows in sandy areas for egg-laying purposes.
Location: Dorset
GPS coordinates: 50.79700,-1.86890
Latest update: March 3, 2025 02:14
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