Fox Fritillary Meadow Nature Reserve

Fox Fritillary Meadow nature reerve

By Steve Aylward.

Fox Fritillary Meadow Nature Reserve

Fox Fritillary Meadow is an ancient floodplain and the largest of four remaining sites for the snake's head fritillary in Suffolk.

Location

Near Framsden
Stowmarket
Suffolk

OS Map Reference

TM190609
A static map of Fox Fritillary Meadow Nature Reserve

Know before you go

Size
2 hectares
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Access

Not acessible to the public.

Dogs

image/svg+xmlNo dogs permitted

When to visit

Opening times

Fox Fritillary Meadow is not open to the public. In some years we have been able to hold an open day even during the fritillary flowering period (mid to late April) however this is dependant on the weather, soil conditions, and health of the fritallaries.

Best time to visit

April-May

About the reserve

Named after the beautiful purple-chequered and white flower heads of the snake’s-head fritillary, Fox Fritillary Meadow is the largest of only four remaining sites for this unique wildflower in Suffolk.

The meadow is an ancient floodplain and now a wet meadow that floods periodically; creating the perfect moist conditions for fritillaries. The grass-like foliage emerges in spring, soon followed by the purple and white flowers from mid-April to early May. The fritillaries bloom alongside early meadow flowers such as cowslip and cuckooflower.

We look after the specialist meadow habitat by using traditional methods, such as hay-cutting, reseeding and grazing, for the benefit of local wildlife. We also work closely with neighbouring farmers and landowners to promote wildlife-friendly practices.

Due to the inaccessible location and sensitivity of the reserve, it is not open to the public.

Environmental designation

Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)