An area of semi-natural woodland dominated by Birch, with a fringe of conifers along the northwestern boundary. In addition there is a block of predominantly Scots Pine plantation, which is developing a Birch understory.
To the north of Rabbit Lane the Birch has naturally self-seeded onto what was in the past an open area of peat bog. Whilst the vegetation is dominated by tussocks of Purple Moor-grass, bog plants such as Sphagnum moss, Bog Asphodel, Cranberry and Cross-leaved Heath are still evident. Extensive control of Rhododendron has been carried out, but is still much in evidence, giving the benefit of cover for birds and restricting access.
Over 80 species of bird have been recorded from the site, of which 38 have been confirmed as breeding. The main ornithological significance lies in the populations of breeding Pied Flycatcher and Redstart.
The woodland to the south of Rabbit Lane is generally drier and has a greater proportion of Oak, although a small watercourse through the compartment supports many Alder trees.
There is a resident deer population, mainly Roe with some Sika, which tend to restrict natural regeneration within the woodland owing to their grazing activities. Management techniques are being applied to try to overcome this problem with the installation of deer exclusion fencing and by selected thinning, leaving the deadwood to try to disrupt the deer’s movements.
2011-05-03 14:17
Location type:
Wildlife or nature reserve