Winks Meadow is rich in wild flowers. It supports a wide range of plants characteristic of ancient unimproved grassland including a number of species that are scarce in Suffolk such as: spiny restharrow, sulphur clover and quaking grass.
The first to flower in late spring and early summer are twayblade, early-purple and green-winged orchid. Later in the summer common spotted, bee, and pyramidal orchid appear together with the only colony of frog orchid in Suffolk.
To maintain the diversity of wild flowers, the meadow is either summer grazed with cattle or cut for hay, followed by aftermath grazing.
The hedge surrounding the meadow is a great wildlife habitat and there is a particularly fine stretch bordering the road. The many shrub species include spindle, field maple and dogwood and its dense structure makes it excellent nesting habitat.
The hedges are maintained by trimming or coppicing, which encourages dense regrowth. Winks Meadow is owned and cared for by Suffolk Wildlife Trust. Plantlife generously supported its purchase. Follow site manager, Susan Stone's blog about managing SWT meadow reserves
Walking information:
Short walk from parking place back down Nunn's Lane to kissing gate at Western end of reserve. The meadow can stand wet in places. When visiting, please keep to the edge of the meadow to prevent damage to the flora and the hay crop
Grazing animals:
Sheep or cattle graze depending on season <p> No dogs permitted on site during grazing please (July-August)