Special Scientific Interest
In recognition of its biological and geological interest, an area of 139.1 hectares (344 acres) within and around the combe was notified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1952.
The calcareous grasslands support a diverse flora which includes Salad burnet (Sanguisorba minor), Knapweed (Centaurea scabiosa and Centaurea nigra), Rock-rose (Helianthemum nummularium) and Wild thyme (Thymus praecox). On the higher, more acidic, slopes Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), Wood sage (Teucrium scorodonia) and Common Bent (Agrostis capillaris) can be found. There are also scrub plants including Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), Mountain ash (Sorbus aucuparia), gorse (Ulex europaeus) and Elder (Sambucus nigra). Several of the caves support bat populations.
Geologically it is recognised as a fluvial karst feature which partly intersects a buried and filled gorge of Triassic age.
Read more about this topic: Burrington Combe
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