Brookheys covert is an ancient semi-natural woodland dominated by oaks, with frequent ash, birch and rowan. Canopy cover varies throughout the reserve, and is at its most dense to the centre of the wood, away from the surrounding farmland. The understory is dense in places and is dominated by hazel, with frequent holly elder. Areas of bare ground and leaf litter are found throughout, and are associated with the most shaded parts of the wood. There are several inter-connected marl pit ponds present throughout the woodland. Some hold water while others remain as damp depressions, only holding water seasonally. Aquatic vegetation is limited to a small number of ponds, and includes common duckweed, iris and water violet. Most ponds are heavily shaded and are subject to fluctuating water levels, however, recent ditch and woodland management has helped improve their wildlife value.
The marl pits have a rich invertebrate fauna and the covert is well used by birds, some of which nest. Grey heron, kingfisher, kestrel, little owl, treecreeper, blackcap, spotted flycatcher, sparrowhawk, jay, and both great spotted and green woodpeckers are amongst the 57 species recorded
2011-05-03 14:14
Walking information:
From the B5160 which runs north west from the A56 at the Bowdon traffic lights (Charcoal Lane), take the class 'C' road running north at Dunham Town. In 1.5 miles (2.4km) turn right at the crossroads beyond Whitehouse Farm and the crematorium, then in 400 metres turn left on the lane to Brookheys Farm. The stile entering the reserve is on the left just before the Sinderland Brook which crosses the lane before Brookheys Farm.
Alternatively, take Sinderland Road from the A56 in Broadheath, when the lane to Brookheys Farm is on the right in about 1.25 miles (2km).Open to members at all times; however access gate off the lane to Brockheys Farm is closed from April to June.
Location type:
Wildlife or nature reserve