Conservation grazing update – Banstead Downs

January 2024

A small flock of thirty sheep will be introduced to Pen 2 on Banstead Downs on Wednesday 10 January.   The grazing enclosure is highlighted in yellow on the map below.  Visitor access to the enclosure is not permitted at this time.  We estimate the sheep will be grazing this section of grassland for a period of no longer than ten weeks before they will be moved to Pen 3, marked in red on the map below and the final grazing pen for this season.

Banstead Downs and Park Downs have been conservation grazed regularly by sheep for over ten years.  This year we are working in partnership with the Downlands Partnership Grazing Team to graze our sites.  Sheep grazing the sward helps to conserve the nationally rare calcareous grassland species and the invertebrates that rely on the unique plant assemblages.

There is a team of sixteen volunteers carrying out welfare checks on the sheep twice daily.  As well as checking on the condition of the sheep, our volunteers also ensure that the perimeter fencing is secure to prevent dogs from entering the enclosures.

Image: map of the stock enclosures on Banstead Downs

 

Visitors are therefore requested to keep dogs under close control at all times when walking around the enclosures.  Thank you for your cooperation.

If you have any concerns for the welfare of the sheep please contact the Downlands Partnership on  07968 832 692.  If you’d like to find out more about Banstead Commons and the work of the Conservators, please don’t hesitate to get in touch by emailing enquiries@bansteadcommons.org.uk