Wildlife species
Samphire Hoe is a haven for wildlife. The site supports a rich biodiversity including:
Over 200 plant species, the result of natural colonisation of the 31 original species sown onto the site
Around 11,500 early spider orchids counted in 2012, compared with the 67 first recordedback in 1998
30 butterfly species
About 170 species of moth, including 5 featured in the Biodiversity Action Plan
13 species of dragonflies and damselflies
208 bird species, 2 of which are listed in the Red Data Book
All year round, various species of wildlife - such as plants and birds - are to be discovered, according to seasons.
Spring
In late February, the first flower to appear is colt's foot. Meadow pipits begin to display over the grassland andShakespeare's "shrill gorged lark" the skylarks start to sing. Migrant birds such as wheatears and swallows arrive. Orange tip and small white butterflies emerge on warmer days.
Summer
During the summer the Hoe buzzes with life. The restharrow dominates the site with its pink flowers.Common spotted orchids and yellow wort enliven the grassland. Commonblue butterflies are on the wing. Adders and lizards can be seen basking in the warmth.
Autumn
Rock sea lavender and sea asters are in flower. The red berries of stinking iris gleam on the cliff. Painted lady butterflies, small tortoise shells and red admirals are attracted by the buddleia along the railway line.
Winter
Many of the plants die back, but wild carrot flower heads turn brown and look like old birds nests. Rock pipits arrive to spend the colder months, and the sea buckthorn berries brighten up the winter scene.
Birds
Bird watching is popular at Samphire Hoe.
The recording area for birds encompasses the whole of the Hoe, plus the cliffs behind it, the sea offshore and the beaches at both the East and West ends.
Over the 130 species of bird recorded in 2010, 24 species held territory within the recording area.
The location of the Hoe on the coast, just across the Channel from mainland Europe, means it can be an important area for migrant birds. Monitoring the bird population of the area indicates how the site is developing and can also support management decisions.
For more information, please read the Samphire Hoe bird report for 2010 (published in April 2011)
Livestock
The introduction of livestock at certain times of the year is done with the aim of encouraging the Hoe to develop into maritime chalk grassland, a very rare habitat.
Temporary electric fences were used to make small enclosures. Since 2008, permanent wooden fences have been erected to form two large compartments. Livestock, sheep and cattle, are able to roam freely within the enclosures.
Samphire Hoe is part of the Higher Level Stewardship Scheme funded by DEFRA.