WILDLIFE

The Barnes Charitable Trust

About The Woodland

This two hectares of woodland is typical of the semi-natural woodland found around the Morecambe Bay limestone area. The principal species are Oak with Ash, Beech, Wild Cherry, a few Sycamore, Birch and Wych Elm. Groves of Yew trees are also a particular feature. Yew were also planted along the drive together with trees around the house and garden, and some are estimated to be over 300 years old.

Fine specimens of Coast Redwood, Corsican Pine, European Larch, Scots Pine and Horse Chestnut originate from planting in Victorian times, with Walnut and Sweet Chestnut more recently. The under storey has Holly, a few Hazel and Hawthorn. As well as Ivy and many ferns, the woodland ground flora includes Wood Anemone, English Bluebell, Common Violet, Spurge Laurel and Toothwort.

Wildlife

Ashmeadow woodlands provide a haven for wildlife with more than twenty-six species of birds breeding.

Greater Spotted Woodpecker, Nuthatch and Tawny Owl are frequently seen.

Butterflies in spring or summer include Peacock, Painted Lady, Comma, Speckled Wood,  Small Tortoiseshell, Brimstone, Red Admiral and the occasional Dark Green Fritillary.

Fernery

 We have started a small fernery. The idea is to have specimens of all the native ferns of the AONB planted along the path outside the Walled Garden. Many already grow wild in the woodlands but this will be a bit more formal.