English: The Larches. A Site of Special Scientific Interest, within the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty as part of the Wouldham to Detling Escarpment of the North Downs. The Larches (trees in pic are mostly beech) has been managed by Kent County Council since 1977 when the land was purchased with contributions from Detling and Boxley Parish Councils and private contributors. There are various habitats on the site each with their own characteristics. The lower levels of the scarp were mature beech woodland but this suffered much damage during the 1987 hurricane. The aim is to restore this area to high forest. Invasive sycamore are removed to allow more light for the native ash and beech. Another key area is chalk grassland, grazed by Exmoor ponies and goats. The grazing helps to keep the mosaic of grass, bare soil and layered scrub vital for various species of invertebrates. This area is home to rare species of wild flowers such as Ground Pine and several orchids. Other areas on the site are yew woodland, which is considered a priority to protect through non-intervention, and hazel coppice. The coppice is over-mature and starting to die off. By cutting small areas in rotation (coppicing) it is hoped to regenerate the coppice stools.