Habitat conservation and improvementHabitat conservation and improvement Lack of woodland activity over several decades usually leads to dark, close conditions, with stands of trees or coppice growing up even aged. Few seedlings grow in such dark conditions: they may not even germinate, and the chances are that the woodland is not regenerating properly. As a uniform age structure emerges, woodland flora become stressed, and butterflies and other vulnerable insects lose their habitat. Planned interventions enable light to reach the woodland floor periodically. While operations aim continually to improve the timber stock, a diverse patchwork of habitats is maintained to maximise species diversity. Non woodland habitats need also to be enhanced. Wide rides provide grassland, open space and edge habitat for flora and fauna. These should be maintained on an annual basis. Standing and fallen deadwood is best retained as a habitat for insects.
European Habitats Directive Bats Ancient woodland is rich habitat for biodiversity, including species that are protected under the European Habitats Directive. It is now assumed that woodland will at the very least contains bats, which are given legal protection under the directive. Following good practice outlined by the Forestry Commission and Natural England, Clive Ellis aims to maintain and enhance populations of these species, and to minimise the risk of harm to individuals. Surveying for potential bat roosts is carried out prior to operations, and trees with characteristics that may provide habitat are protected. Great Crested Newts It is often the case that woodland contains ponds. It is to the benefit of biodiversity to let some light in around ponds which have become overgrown and shaded. Great Crested Newts benefit from such increased light levels. Following good practice, populations of this species are enhanced by sensitive management decisions including protected areas and buffer zones.
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for help in the management of ancient or established woodland
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