Ecosystems - Trooper's Hill Flashcards
Where is Trooper’s Hill?
St George, East Bristol
General info?
It was declared as a Local Nature Reserve (LNR) on 22nd June 1995 in recognition of the wide range of wildlife present on the hill and its importance as a unique habitat in the Bristol area due to the presence of acidic soils.
Covers 8.33 Ha (acres) Hillside overlooking the River Avon with fantastic views of Bristol and much wildlife. Great for flying kites as it’s always windy. Free guided tours are run by the Friends of Troopers Hill. Car parking available on the adjacent residential roads. Wheelchair accessible path at the top of the hill but the rest of the paths are unsurfaced and there are some sections of steep steps. Beware of steep cliff edges. In the 1600s, the hill was part of a large royal hunting forest. In the late 1700s, the tall chimney on top of the hill was used for copper smelting and later, in the 1800s, coal and fireclay were mined from the hill. The square chimney at the foot of the hill is the remains of an engine house used by the coal mine.
What types of flora are found at Trooper’s Hill?
Waxcaps, Haircap moss, agaric (fungus), earthball (fungus), fescue grasses, Wavy Hair Grass, bell heather, yellow flowered broom, mouse eared hawkweed, heath bedstraw, Acid heath.
What types of fauna are found at Trooper’s Hill?
Mining bees and bee flies, long winged conehead, common lizard, slow worm,
Long tailed tit, buzzard, Tawny owl, foxes, roe deer, shrew, bat
280 species of invertebrates.
Strategies used to conserve the area?
The Friends of Troopers Hill are a group of local residents interested in protecting and enhancing the nature reserve. They have regular meetings and organise work days and events. New members are always very welcome.
The Friend of Troopers Hill are partnered with Bristol Parks.
Motorcycles, horses and barbecues are not permitted in the park.
