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	A Place for Wildlife
Insects Birds Reptiles & Mammals Plants	Half the Hoe was sown with wildflower seeds. This consisted of five mixes totalling 31 species, designed to suit the different conditions on the site. The rest of the Hoe was planted with rye grass; this has since died out allowing plants from the surrounding areas to colonise. This newly developed vegetation has attracted a wide variety of wildlife.
	Spring
	In late February colt's foot the first flowers of the year appear followed by a gradual progression of colour. Shakespeare's "shrill gorged lark" the skylarks start to sing. Migrant birds Wheatears and Swallows arrive. Orange tip and small white butterflies emerge.
	Summer
	During the summer the Hoe changes as the yellow of kidney vetch fades and the pink of restharrow dominates. Meadow pipits display over the grasslands. Common blue 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. Painted lady butterflies, small tortise shells and red admirals are attracted by the buddliea along the railway line.
	Winter
	Many of the plants die back, but wild carrot flower heads die back and look like old birds nests. Rock pipits arrive to spend the winter. Sea mayweed is one of the few plants that flowers in the depth of winter.
	Sheep can sometimes be seen grazing on the Hoe. It is hoped they will graze some of the dominant grasses and allow some of the more delicate plants to thrive. The Hoe is in Countryside Stewardship Scheme funded by DEFRA.
© 2010 Eurotunnel and White Cliffs Countryside Project (WCCP)