The English Oak is, perhaps, our most iconic tree: the one that almost every child and adult alike could draw the leaf of, or describe the fruits of. Also known as the 'Pedunculate Oak' because its acorns grow on stalks or 'peduncles', the English Oak is a common timber tree, its wood once highly prized for building ships and houses, and making furniture. Its autumnal acorns are also highly prized by both people and wildlife - the former use them for fodder for pigs and the latter often store them for the long winter ahead.
Our native tree species, such as English Oak, provide important links in the food chain for many animals, as well as areas for shelter and nesting. The Wildlife Trusts recognise the importance of healthy habitats to support all kinds of species throughout the food chain, so look after many nature reserves for the benefit of wildlife. You can help too: volunteer for your local Wildlife Trust and you could be involved in everything from coppicing to craft-making, stockwatching to surveying.