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Blog
10 best trees to attract birds and other wildlife
Native trees offer birds and other animals vital food and shelter all year round. Boost biodiversity with our top 10 trees suited to small gardens and larger spaces.
Charlie Mellor • 02 May 2023
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Support us
Endangered wildlife appeal
Nature needs help. Please make a donation to support our life-changing work to plant trees, restore habitats and protect the UK's woodland. Together, we can give wildlife a future.
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Blog
Wildlife quiz: friend or foe?
Not all wildlife is welcomed into our woods, homes and gardens with open arms. Some species are seen as pests, but is it just a case of a bad reputation? Test your knowledge in our quiz!
Charlotte Varela • 09 Sept 2024
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Research briefing
Trees on hen ranges are a haven for wildlife
This briefing highlights how various wildlife species benefit from trees on hen ranges using findings from surveys across nine sites in Cumbria from 2016-2019.
PDF (702 KB)
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Trees woods and wildlife
Woodland wildlife
The UK's native woods and trees support a great diversity of living organisms. Our species guides explore the wildlife that depends on woodland, from plants and fungi to mammals, birds, bees and beetles.
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Press centre
First trees planted as charity tees up to turn abandoned golf course into wildlife haven
School children are set to plant the first of 30,000 trees at Frodsham, Cheshire in an ambitious project to turn fairways into forest and greens into glades.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Oak trees and wildlife
Our fantastic oaks support more life than any other UK native tree. Discover which species live and feed on oak, from foxes and fungi to bats and beetles.
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Blog
British trees and shrubs to plant: 14 native garden trees
British trees pack a big punch in your garden. Make space for one or two you’ll have year-round interest and be supporting wildlife too. Here's our top 14 native trees to plant in your garden.
Helen Keating • 08 Nov 2021
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Press centre
Wildlife declining in UK woods despite more tree cover, major new report reveals
The State of the UK’s Woods and Trees 2025 report has revealed that the quantity and variety of woodland wildlife is plummeting, despite a marginal rise in tree cover.
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Press centre
Inspiring ‘cultural trees’ shortlisted for Tree of the Year 2025
From a cedar that The Beatles climbed to an oak from a Virginia Woolf poem, discover the cultural trees shortlisted for Tree of the Year 2025.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Why are trees important for biodiversity?
Woodland is home to a wealth of wildlife. If we don't protect what we have left and work to create woodlands of the future, we stand to lose more than just trees.
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Blog
The oldest tree in the UK: how long do trees live?
Discover the oldest tree in the UK - and the world - and why ancient trees are so important.
Charlie Mellor • 29 Jan 2024
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Plant trees
Why plant trees?
Whatever your reason for planting, trees have far-reaching benefits for all of us.
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Blog
10 ways to help wildlife in autumn
We can all take small actions to help wildlife this autumn. From your balcony or workplace to the local woods and beyond, here are our ten top tips.
Charlie Mellor • 19 Oct 2022
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Press centre
New research proves woodland wildlife does wonders for wellbeing
Groundbreaking new research backed by the Woodland Trust proves that woods teeming with wildlife do wonders for your wellbeing.
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Protecting trees and woods
What urban trees do for us
They green our cities. They clean our air. They fight the effects of climate change. They even increase the value of our houses. Urban woods and trees do so much for people, wildlife and our economy.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Urban trees and woodland
Underrated heroes, colourful comforts and spaces for people and wildlife. Urban trees and woodland are all the more valuable for their location. They support plants and animals, clean our air and boost wellbeing.
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Blog
7 amazing woodland wildlife walks in Scotland
From otters and ospreys to fascinating fungi and flowers, Scotland's wildlife and scenery are spectacular. Check out 7 of our favourite woods for wildlife walks.
Charlie Mellor • 15 Jul 2022
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Blog
10 ways to help wildlife in spring
We can all make a difference for wildlife this season, from a single simple action to an ongoing commitment, at home or further afield. Read our ten top tips.
Charlie Mellor • 01 Mar 2023
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Press centre
Rhododendron is destroying our native wildlife
Popular for its pretty flowers, Rhododendron ponticum is an invasive non-native species and is damaging native woods and wildlife.
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Plant trees
Rugby club plants for riverside wildlife
When trees were lost in stormy weather, South Wales' Blackwood RFC applied for a community tree pack to restore the wildlife habitat, soil stability and beauty that had been washed downriver.
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Blog
How to attract wildlife to your garden: 5 top tips
Make your garden a haven for wildlife and you can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature knowing that you’re making a difference.
Charlie Mellor • 26 Jun 2020
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Blog
How and when to plant fruit trees
Find out how to choose the best fruit tree for you and your garden, when and where to plant them and the benefits they bring for wildlife.
Helen Keating • 05 Nov 2020
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Support us
Charter for Trees, Woods and People
Discover the ten principles that set out the modern day relationship between people and trees and a vision for a future where we can be stronger together.
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Video
Planting trees for wildlife, environment and future generations
Through our MOREwoods and MOREhedges schemes, Robert Moore has planted trees to attract wildlife, capture carbon, improve visual impact and make better use of underperforming areas of his 356 hectare Lincolnshire farm.
00:05:04
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Support us
Plant trees with your school
Tree planting is a hands-on way for children to make a real impact on the environment. We’ve already helped schools plant five million trees across the UK; discover how we can help you.
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Blog
Autumn trees for your garden: best native trees for seasonal colour
Our guide to the best UK native trees to plant in your garden for a splash of seasonal colour, from fiery foliage to bright, bold berries.
Helen Keating • 19 Oct 2020
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Blog
Common tree identification: top 10 beginner's trees
Our top ten trees to give you a crash course in common tree identification.
Helen Keating • 26 May 2021
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Press centre
Climate action: water your street trees
Rising temperatures and dry spells are leading to an increasing loss of new street trees, but the nation can do its bit, urge tree groups.
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Blog
Wildlife mythbusting: fact or fiction?
Is there any truth to these popular beliefs about UK plants and animals? From stinging bees to talking trees, the answers might surprise you. Test your knowledge with our ten questions.
Charlie Mellor • 06 Sept 2023
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Support us
The power of trees - KS3 assembly
Inspire secondary students with this presentation about the incredible way trees benefit people and the planet. This assembly can also support your school's tree-planting activities.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Fir, Douglas
A fragrant home for wildlife, the Douglas fir isn’t just for Christmas. First introduced in the 1800s, it’s been a valuable timber source and provided homes for the likes of red squirrels and pine martens.
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Press centre
11 weird and wonderful wildlife of our rainforests
From a stinky fish-smelling lichen to one which looks like a dragon’s skin, to the world’s largest slug with the strangest mating ritual – the weird and wonderful wildlife of our rainforests.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Tackling air pollution with trees
Air pollution can have a serious impact on our health, global climate and biodiversity, but there are ways to reduce it. Discover the role trees have to play.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Why we need trees
We desperately need trees to help fight climate change, save wildlife, improve our health, and more.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Trees and woods: at the heart of nature recovery
Healthy woods and trees are the beating heart of abundant, nature-rich habitats. Our new reports show the central role they must play in nature's recovery.
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Press centre
More than 10 million trees planted across the Northern Forest
More than 10 million trees have now been established across the North of England as part of the Northern Forest scheme, which launched in 2018.
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Blog
Protected trees: how to know which trees are protected
Our guide explains the different methods of protection, how to check what’s already in place and what you can do to protect trees that are important to you.
Nicole Hillier • 17 Jul 2020
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Trees woods and wildlife
A-Z of British trees
Explore our simple A-Z identification guide to the trees of Britain, from natives to naturalised and widely planted non-native species. You'll find images, tree descriptions and information on where you're likely to find them.
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Video
How trees capture and store carbon
Photosynthesis is made simple as you take a journey into the leaf of a tree with our animation and discover how trees capture and store carbon.
00:02:29
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Blog
Why do we need trees?
Trees are invaluable to us and the environment. Find out why and how you can help protect them.
Jack Taylor • 08 Dec 2017
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Blog
How do heatwaves affect wildlife?
As the UK experiences extreme heat and drought, we take a look at the potentially catastrophic effects of heatwaves on wildlife from early fruit ripening to a false autumn.
Fritha West • 10 Aug 2022
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Blog
Four examples of how UK wildlife camouflages
Find out how animals in the UK use camouflage to hide in plain sight. In this blog, we explore four types of camouflage and why it is important for animals.
Julia Lock • 23 May 2022
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Trees woods and wildlife
Why bats need woods and trees
The UK is home to 18 species of bats, all of which are protected by law. This protection extends to their breeding and resting places. Hedgerows, tree lines and watercourses are important to the roosting, foraging and navigation needs of bats.
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Blog
UK winter wildlife quiz: true or false?
How much do you know about what wildlife gets up to in winter? Test your knowledge with our fun quiz.
Charlie Mellor • 20 Nov 2023
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Blog
Winter wildlife watching: what, where and when to spot
The winter weather might be frightful, but nature is always delightful. Here are our top tips on what wildlife to look out for, where and when on your winter walks.
Rory Morrow • 13 Jan 2025
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Trees woods and wildlife
Ancient trees
Ancient trees are irreplaceable. Steeped in history, these impressive trees have been standing tall for hundreds of years and are invaluable homes for wildlife.
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Protecting trees and woods
Street tree heroes: standing up for street trees
People across the UK are fighting for their street trees. They're planting the street trees of the future, rallying the support of their communities and influencing local planning policies.
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State of UK woods and trees
State of the UK's Woods and Trees 2025
Four years after the groundbreaking State of the UK's Woods and Trees report, the Woodland Trust is once again assessing the health of the UK's woods and trees – revealing the latest evidence and analysis to support the urgent action needed to protect and restore woodlands.
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Press centre
New report reveals serious threat to Welsh woods and trees
A Woodland Trust report provides evidence of multiple threats that pose catastrophic consequences for woods and trees across the UK.
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Press centre
Campaign launched to support next generation of lone trees
Woodland Trust Scotland has launched a campaign to raise the next generation of lone trees and micro woods on farms and crofts.
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Blog
How we take care of ancient and veteran trees
Protecting ancient trees is one of our top priorities. Discover how we design and manage our woods around them and how you can help.
Naomi Tilley • 26 Sept 2022
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Trees woods and wildlife
Yorkshire fog grass
Beautiful but unpalatable, Yorkshire fog grass glows a gentle purple in meadows and wasteland alike. It’s not a favourite with livestock, but is eaten by the caterpillars of the small skipper.
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Blog
Tackling climate change with the right trees in the right place
Trees can tackle climate change and absorb carbon, but what those trees are and how they are managed is key.
Karen Hornigold • 27 Jul 2020
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Press centre
Eryri leads the way with 100-year vision to protect and restore native trees
The Woodland Trust in Wales is celebrating the launch of Eryri's Tree and Woodland Strategy 2025–2125 as the most ambitious, forward-thinking vision for trees and woodlands anywhere in the UK.
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Press centre
Success for Wales-wide tree planting project as 300,000 trees find homes
Thousands of households have planted trees through the My Tree, Our Forest project, helping to kickstart a National Forest for Wales.
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Blog
6 rare moths that depend on UK trees
The UK is home to a number of moths that depend on trees. Explore moth species that you'd be lucky to encounter on a woodland walk.
Julia Lock • 12 Jul 2022
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Protecting trees and woods
All-Party Parliamentary Group for Woods and Trees
The APPG meets several times a year to discuss steps to protect, restore and expand woods and trees in a time of climate and nature crises.
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Protecting trees and woods
Threats to woods and trees
Threats to woodland, wildlife and the wider environment are growing. Our trees and woods face a challenging combination of pressures, from humans, pests and diseases.
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About us
Trees for farms in the East Anglian Claylands
The landscape of the East Anglian Claylands is at the forefront of fighting tree disease, climate change, and biodiversity loss. We’re calling all farmers and landowners to help create a resilient landscape, where trees and woods thrive for farming and wildlife.
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Research report
State of the UK's Woods and Trees 2021
This State of the UK’s Woods and Trees report is the first to present important facts and trends focusing predominantly on our native woods and trees.
PDF (27.62 MB)
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Blog
7 ways for kids to help garden wildlife
Read our top tips on how kids can help support garden wildlife, from planting trees to making a bug hotel.
Danielle Wesley • 18 Aug 2021
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Press centre
Lauren Child helps children smile with free trees
Much-loved children’s author Lauren Child has urged schools and community groups across the UK to take advantage of the Woodland Trust’s free trees scheme.
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Press centre
Crunch time for trees as petition calling for new protection laws is handed in
A petition calling for stronger laws to protect iconic trees has been handed to the government, the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity has confirmed.
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Blog
What are the most common trees in the UK?
Ever wondered which trees species are most common in the UK? Check out our top ten.
Laura Cottam • 21 Dec 2018
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Press centre
Integrating trees on Scotland’s farms and crofts
Woodland Trust Scotland and the National Farmers Union Scotland have jointly written to the Scottish Government calling for farmers and crofters to be given more support to integrate native trees on their land.
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Press centre
Coed Cadw welcomes Senedd support for 'Amazing Trees'
Coed Cadw welcomes Senedd support for 'Amazing Trees' and calls for public & community support to plant thousands more
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Press centre
Joint statement: new Government must show commitment to trees
If the many benefits of trees to society in both rural and urban areas are to be realised, urgent action will be required from the new government.
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Blog
Autumn leaf ID quiz: can you identify 10 trees?
Test your tree knowledge. As autumn sets in, many of the trees around us change colour, but do you know what they are?
Helen Keating • 21 Sept 2020
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Protecting trees and woods
Ancient woods and trees will be lost for Lower Thames Crossing
Important woods, trees and wildlife remain at risk from National Highways proposals to build a new tunnel linking Essex and Kent under the River Thames.
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Trees woods and wildlife
How to identify trees
All trees have clues and features that can help with identification. You just need to know what to look out for with our quick guide.
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Protecting trees and woods
Norwich Western Link road threatens ancient woods and trees
Road plans in Norfolk threaten ancient woods and trees and the wildlife that live there. Find out what’s at stake and how you can help.
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Press centre
The Woodland Trust Northern Ireland plants 250,000 trees at Woodburn Reservoir
The Woodland Trust has been working in partnership with Northern Ireland Water on a regreening programme since 2020. During that time, the UK’s leading woodland conservation charity has planted around 476,000 native trees on Northern Ireland Water’s land.
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Press centre
Farming with trees is key to net zero, new research shows
A new Woodland Trust report shows how increasing agroforestry – farming with trees - in England is essential to meet nature and climate targets
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Practical guidance
Recognising and categorising ancient and other veteran trees
Ancient and veteran trees provide irreplaceable benefits to people and wildlife, but they can be difficult to recognise and categorise. Read our guide to confidently and reliably identify these living legends.
PDF (3.35 MB)
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Blog
What is habitat fragmentation and what does it mean for our wildlife?
Did you know that habitat fragmentation is one of the greatest threats to wildlife globally? Find out what it means and how it affects UK species like the dormouse.
James Martin • 16 Aug 2018
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Blog
Combat climate change at home: 6 UK native trees to plant in small gardens
Small garden, big impact – here’s a list of UK native trees to help combat global warming from home, without taking up too much space.
Becca Smith • 07 Oct 2022
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Blog
British trees: folklore and mythology
Trees are deeply embedded in our history and folklore. Explore nine British trees with their own magical associations and stories.
Helen Keating • 29 Apr 2021
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Press centre
A £382 billion asset – why UK trees need better protection and urgent investment
The ONS has calculated an economic value for the UK’s trees and woods – £382 billion.
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Support us
Plant more trees
We're on a mission to grow millions of healthy, native trees across the UK to help protect us from the effects of climate change.
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Blog
Hollow tree trunks: what are they good for?
Take a step inside a hollow tree and you take a step back through history. A hollowing trunk is a natural process and has benefits for the tree and the creatures that live in them.
Sally Bavin • 28 Jul 2023
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Press centre
Hundreds of trees planted by Kate Humble with support from Welsh Woodland Trust
Kate Humble has planted hundreds of trees on her property with support from Coed Cadw, the Woodland Trust in Wales.
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Blog
Summer tree identification: can you name these nine trees?
Which trees do you recognise? Test your knowledge and see if you can get top marks!
Helen Keating • 13 Jul 2020
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Position statement
Urban trees and forests – the Woodland Trust's position
Urban trees provide vital benefits to people and nature, but not everyone has equal access to this critical green infrastructure. Read our views on protecting, restoring and creating urban forests.
PDF (2.01 MB)
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Practical guidance
Ancient and veteran trees: Caring for special trees on farms
This guide helps identify ancient and veteran trees on farming land, and highlights their importance. It provides information on how to protect trees and secure their future.
PDF (2.28 MB)
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Trees woods and wildlife
Identify trees with our Tree ID app
Download our free Tree ID app for Android and iPhone to identify the UK's native and non-native trees. It's an A-Z tree guide in your pocket.
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Plant trees
UK sourced and grown trees: why is it important to buy them?
Buying UK sourced and grown trees is the best way to prevent the spread of imported pests and diseases.
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Blog
Endangered trees: a guide to 7 rare trees in the UK
A guide to seven threatened tree species with photos and information on where they live, what they look like, conservation efforts and how you can help.
Chris Britt-Searle • 10 Sept 2024
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Plant trees
How to care for your trees
Once your trees are in the ground it’s important to care for them to help them thrive, particularly in the first few years.
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Plant trees
My Tree, Our Forest
In partnership with the Welsh Government and Llais Y Goedwig, we are delighted to have given away tens of thousands of trees to be planted all over Wales, kick-starting a National Forest for Wales.
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Research report
State of the UK's Woods and Trees 2025 – a summary for Wales
A policy summary report for Wales based on the evidence from the State of UK's Woods and Trees 2025 report.
PDF (4.15 MB)
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Research report
State of the UK's Woods and Trees 2025 – a summary for Scotland
A policy summary report for Scotland based on the evidence from the State of UK's Woods and Trees 2025 report.
PDF (7.04 MB)
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Research report
State of the UK's Woods and Trees 2025 – a summary for England
A policy summary report for England based on the evidence from the State of UK's Woods and Trees 2025 report.
PDF (7.02 MB)
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Press centre
Woodland Trust £2.9 million to fund trees and green spaces for local communities
The Trust has given communities a boost by providing much needed funding for cash strapped local authorities to plant trees and create green spaces.
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About us
Protecting living legends: the search for our ancient trees
Since 2006, the Ancient Tree Hunt has recorded over 233,200 ancient and veteran trees, but we've only just scratched the surface. New research is helping us discover trees so that we can better record and protect them.
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Trees woods and wildlife
British native trees
Native UK trees colonised the land when the glaciers melted after the last Ice Age and before the UK was disconnected from mainland Europe.
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Research report
The benefits to people of trees outside woods
A research report on the ecosystem services, natural capital and other benefits trees outside woods provide, whether cultural, environmental or economic.
PDF (1.48 MB)
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Blog
How to identify winter trees quiz - twigs, buds and silhouettes
When deciduous trees shed their leaves in winter, identification can be tricky. But even on bare trees there are clues to look out for. Take this quiz and test your winter tree ID knowledge.
Helen Keating • 17 Dec 2020
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Video
Urban sanctuary for people and wildlife
In a Birmingham park, Short Heath Fields Trust has planted a woodland memorial that’s great for wildlife too.
00:02:30
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Blog
10 camping activities for kids who love wildlife
Discover 10 wildlife-themed activities for kids and families to enjoy on a camping trip.
Danielle Wesley • 02 Aug 2023
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Trees woods and wildlife
Common bird’s nest fungus
Clinging to twigs and branches like tiny birds’ nests, each common bird’s nest fungus looks like a clutch of white eggs.
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About us
Where do our trees come from?
With increasing numbers of tree pests and diseases in the UK, it's important we have confidence in the trees we plant. Find out more about how our trees are sourced and grown.
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Plant trees
Free trees for schools and communities
Trees help people and nature thrive and we need more of them in the ground. That’s why we’re giving thousands away free to schools, councils, clubs and more.
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Protecting trees and woods
Cutting down trees: law and legislation
Whether you want to fell a tree or protect one from felling, protection and preservation laws can be complex. Our guide explains best practice and alternatives.
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Plant trees
In-field trees
Low maintenance and versatile, in-field trees can be integrated into existing farming systems to enhance the farmed business and biodiversity.
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Press centre
Former golf course becomes wooded haven for wildlife
A former golf course in north Cheshire is to be transformed by the Woodland Trust into a haven for nature and a wild place for communities to visit for years to come.
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Research report
Planting trees to protect water on farms
Planting trees on farms can improve water quality, reduce pollution and help mitigate flooding, while also supporting production and wildlife.
PDF (1.64 MB)
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Journal
Wood Wise – trees for water
Read the spring 2022 issue of Wood Wise, which explores the relationship between trees and water.
PDF (4.90 MB)
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Journal
Wood Wise - trees for good
Read the spring 2020 issue of Wood Wise, all about how trees can simultaneously tackle the climate and nature emergencies.
PDF (3.05 MB)
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Research report
State of the UK's Woods and Trees 2025
Four years after the groundbreaking State of the UK's Woods and Trees report, the Woodland Trust is once again assessing the health of the UK's woods and trees – revealing the latest evidence and analysis to support the urgent action needed to protect and restore woodlands.
PDF (13.33 MB)
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Position statement
Ancient and veteran trees, parkland and wood pasture
The Woodland Trust believes all ancient and veteran trees should be valued and protected. More are also needed to become the ancient trees of the future.
PDF (610 KB)
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Blog
Which trees have catkins? And how to tell them apart
Find out what catkins look like, which trees have them, why they grow, and where and when to spot them.
Alex Marshall • 07 Jan 2025
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Press centre
"LincWoods" project to plant 200,000 trees across Lincolnshire in next two years
Lincolnshire County Council and the Woodland Trust have united for a major planting initiative to boost tree cover across the region.
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Blog
Life cycle of a tree: how trees grow
From seed to snag, the journey a tree takes to grow is pretty impressive! Find out more about the process.
Rachel Hoskins • 24 Jun 2019
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Research report
State of the UK's Woods and Trees 2025 – a summary for Northern Ireland
A policy summary report for Northern Ireland based on the evidence from the State of UK's Woods and Trees 2025 report.
PDF (6.28 MB)
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Plant trees
Stump Up For Trees: planting one million trees in the Bannau Brycheiniog area
Farmers in the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park show how it's possible to turn marginal land land into profitable assets that deliver for nature.
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Protecting trees and woods
How to set up a local group and meeting
A group of passionate, like-minded people could help others understand the value of woods and trees and shape local policy.
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Support us
Tree disease fighting fund
We're investing in hedgerows and trees to replace ash lost to dieback, and supporting tree nurseries to rely less on stock imported from overseas. But we need your help to do more.
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Blog
Best native hedge plants: choose the right hedges
Autumn and winter are the best times to plant a hedge. To get you started, here are our top 10 recommendations for the best native hedge plants and the amazing benefits they'll bring.
Helen Keating • 23 May 2023
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Plant trees
Silvopasture roundels
Silvopasture roundels are a simple and cost-effective way to integrate trees into your farm and provide benefits for livestock, wildlife and more.
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Press centre
Budget Day 2024: what Holyrood should do for woods and trees
If Scotland is to meet its climate goals and restore nature to a thriving condition, we need more native trees and woods, and we need them in good condition.
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Blog
Tree ID for kids
Help youngsters learn how to identify trees through the seasons with our tree-spotting activities.
Danielle Wesley • 02 Mar 2020
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About us
We create
We create quality native woods and plant native trees to benefit nature, climate and people now and for the future.
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Blog
6 fast growing trees for your garden
Looking for screening, privacy or just want to green up your garden quickly? Check out our recommendations for a fast growing native tree to suit your space.
Charlie Mellor • 20 Sept 2024
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Blog
Ancient yew trees: the UK's oldest yews
Often associated with immortality, a yew tree can live for thousands of years. Here are some of the oldest yews in the UK.
Rory Morrow • 27 Aug 2025
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Protecting trees and woods
Contact your MP for help to protect trees and woods
Your MP in Westminster might be able to help if you’re trying to save local woods and trees or if you’re concerned about a national issue affecting nature.
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Blog
Dedicate in memory: remember a loved one with trees and woodland
Dedicating a tree or woodland provides a living, growing memorial to a loved one and a poignant way of remembering them. Dedications are available in Woodland Trust woods across the UK.
Charlie Mellor • 14 Feb 2024
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About us
Connecting and protecting Welsh woods and trees
With support from Players of People’s Postcode Lottery, the Dyfi to Dwyryd project aims to expand and connect more trees and wooded habitats on a landscape scale – to improve biodiversity in mid Wales and beyond.
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Climate change
How does climate change affect timings in nature?
For nature to thrive, timing is everything. But seasonal events are happening earlier, with disastrous knock-on effects for native wildlife. Find out how you can help.
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Support us
Have a tree party
Celebrate the UK’s incredible trees and woods with an outdoor party or picnic.
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Plant trees
Securing England's future tree supply: growing diversity
The UK government aims to plant millions of trees in the coming decades. But where will all these trees come from? We're spearheading an initiative that will ensure a quality, native tree supply for the UK's green future.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Wayfaring tree
A welcome sign you’re homeward bound, the wayfaring tree is so named because it grows close to paths. Look for them in hedges and woodland edges, with full bloom in the spring and heavy with berries in the autumn.
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Blog
Where to see red squirrels: 7 woods for wildlife watching
Wondering where to see red squirrels in the UK? Here are seven of the best woods to spot these rare mammals - as well as lots of other wildlife!
Chris Britt-Searle • 05 Aug 2024
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Visiting woods
Ancient Tree Inventory
Ancient trees need special care and protection. There are thousands of ancient trees in the UK and we need your help to find out where they are.
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Practical guidance
The role of trees in sheep farming
Planting trees for shelter can boost production and improve animal health and welfare. This guide provides practical guidance on integrating trees on sheep farms.
PDF (15.85 MB)
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Protecting trees and woods
Thank you for demanding a bold England Tree Strategy
The England Trees Action Plan determines how Government will protect, plant and restore woods and trees for years to come.
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Support us
Trees for Tom
Captain Sir Tom Moore united and inspired the nation. By planting trees with the Trust, his family honoured his love of nature and helped create a brighter future. And you paid tribute by donating.
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Blog
10 best winter woodland walks
Embrace the simpler things in life with a winter woodland walk, when spectacular frosty landscapes and leafless trees reveal hidden history and elusive wildlife. Check out 10 of our favourite woods for inspiration.
Charlie Mellor • 16 Nov 2023
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Press centre
Bugs on planes: volunteers hunt for new insect threat to iconic trees
Hardy volunteers are scouring trees across the UK in search of a hitchhiking bug that has made its way to our shores.
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Plant trees
Planning your community wood
Find out how to plan your community wood's management and maintenance, from the site boundaries and pathways to the trees and wildlife that lives there.
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Policy paper
Trees and woods: at the heart of nature recovery in England
This report shows the central role that native natural and semi-natural woods and trees must play in restoring nature, and how the government and local authorities can embed nature's recovery in local plans.
PDF (4.96 MB)
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Support us
Discover your school's Tree Equity Score
Take action to help everyone access the benefits of trees.
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Blog
10 ways to help wildlife in summer
We can all make a difference for wildlife this season, from a single simple action to an ongoing commitment, at home or further afield. Read our ten top tips.
Charlie Mellor • 12 Jun 2023
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Plant trees
Tree planting advice
Thinking of planting trees, but need some help? Explore advice on choosing the right tree species, location, how to plant and aftercare.
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Policy paper
Trees and woods: at the heart of nature recovery in Wales
This report shows the central role that native natural and semi-natural woods and trees must play in restoring nature in Wales, and how the government and local authorities can help. The report is also available in Welsh.
PDF (18.56 MB)
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Blog
10 ways to help wildlife in winter
Wildlife will appreciate a helping hand in winter. From practical outdoor activities to the comfort of your armchair, check out our ten top tips to make a difference this season.
Charlie Mellor • 07 Dec 2023
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Protecting trees and woods
Newly elected MPs must champion woods and trees
Successful candidates in the 2024 General Election should recognise the value of trees and woods where you live.
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Plant trees
South West tree giveaway: terms and conditions
South West tree giveaway: terms and conditions
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Press centre
Woodland Trust Scotland takes aim at health inequalities with trees targeted by neighbourhood
Woodland Trust Scotland has announced plans to target urban planting at neighbourhoods where trees have greatest potential to boost human health and wellbeing.
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Research report
Trees outside woods – their landscape and ecological value
A research report examining the extent and value of single trees in hedgerows, parks and gardens, and farmland, and their contribution to the UK’s landscape.
PDF (1.01 MB)
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Press centre
Biggest ever tree planting year for fast-expanding Northern Forest
More than 1.9 million trees – enough to fill over 1,200 football pitches – were planted across the Northern Forest in the last year.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Can woods and trees reduce flooding?
Trees and woods play a vital role in reducing flooding by slowing down the flow of rainwater, absorbing rainwater, and reducing erosion.
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Protecting trees and woods
Subsidence and trees
How do you know whether your home has subsidence? And how do you know if a tree is causing it? Find out more about subsidence and trees.
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Press centre
Politicians plant six millionth tree of the Northern Forest
A host of dignitaries joined together to plant the six millionth tree of the Northern Forest, marking five years since the start of the ambitious project to link up Liverpool and Hull with trees.
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Blog
When to prune apple and other fruit trees
Whether you're reviving an old fruit tree, shaping a new one, or encouraging a jumper crop, here's our top advice on what to do and when to do it. From apples and pears to peaches and plums.
Helen Keating • 02 Feb 2018
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Trees woods and wildlife
Ivy
Clingy, luscious, misunderstood. Ivy has long been accused of strangling trees, but it doesn’t harm the tree at all, and even supports at least 50 species of wildlife.
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Press centre
Woodland Trust Northern Ireland welcomes Tree Protection Bill
Woodland Trust Northern Ireland has welcomed a Private Members Bill submitted at Stormont to protect trees.
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Press centre
Woodland Trust expresses shock at London ancient oak tree felling
Police are looking into the mysterious felling of one of London’s largest and most significant ancient trees at Whitewebbs Park in Enfield.
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Support us
Fundraise for us
Set your own challenge or host a community event to raise money for woods, trees and wildlife.
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Blog
Woodland wildlife Olympics quiz
Test your nature knowledge as we pit fur against feather in an imaginary woodland Olympics. Some of the results might surprise you!
Charlie Mellor • 10 Jul 2024
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Protecting trees and woods
Thermal imaging of urban trees in Cardiff
With average temperatures and heatwaves getting more intense, we we commissioned Ti Thermal Imaging Ltd to reveal how trees can help us cope.
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Policy paper
Trees and woods: at the heart of nature recovery in Scotland
This report shows the central role that native woods and trees must play in restoring nature in Scotland, and how the government and local authorities can help.
PDF (3.03 MB)
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Protecting trees and woods
Urge the Senedd to restore nature with trees on farms
Our Ten Asks for Trees would boost the Sustainable Farming Scheme’s impact for Wales’ people and landscape. Urge the Senedd to make them happen.
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Research report
Managing crop drought with trees
Evidence review exploring the benefits of native shelter trees on drought management for pasture and arable crops, agricultural production and food security.
PDF (1.91 MB)
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Press centre
Farmers share tales of 'living legends' and nature on their land
From an ancient oak which survived a hit from a Lancaster Bomber in World War Two to a 150-year-old pear tree – classically taken portraits tell a story of how farmers are helping to protect ancient and veteran trees.
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Case study
Restoring riverbanks with trees in Cumbria
Planting trees can stabilise riverbanks, slow flood water and reduce future flooding. We worked with landowners along the River Derwent to do just that.
PDF (706 KB)
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Support us
Keep living legends alive
Most of our oldest trees are not legally protected. We're urging governments across the UK to change that. Add your voice to our call for improved protection laws.
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Plant trees
East Anglia tree giveaway: terms and conditions
East Anglia tree giveaway: terms and conditions
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Press centre
More farmers seeking benefits of trees - thousand attend Agroforestry Show
A 'growing movement' is recognising that trees can offer farm resilience and business opportunities in the face of extreme weather with more than a thousand people joining the Agroforestry Show.
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Blog
Ancient tree quiz: test your knowledge
How much do you know about old and ancient trees in the UK? How long do they live and where can you find them? Take the quiz.
Helen Keating • 14 Jun 2022
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Blog
When do blue tits nest?
A sure sign of the start of spring is the sight of blue tits zipping back and forth to nest boxes, beaks full of moss. Find out when, where and how long blue tits nest, when their chicks fledge, and how important it is that they time things just right.
Amy Lewis • 12 Feb 2019
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Blog
Beech tree facts: purple leaves, rippled bark and more
Beech is one of our most popular trees. Here are our tips on how to identify them, why some may look a little different and other interesting facts.
Emilie Bonnevay • 15 Jul 2019
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Plant trees
Free trees in action
From schools and sports clubs to forest gardens and outdoor gyms, find out how free tree packs are helping groups across the country to create a greener, healthier future for people and nature.
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Blog
What do buzzards eat? And more buzzard facts
Did you know the UK’s buzzard population had quadrupled since the 1970s? These majestic birds of prey are thriving, but what do they eat?
James Martin • 21 Jun 2019
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Press centre
Secret seed sources sought for Scotland’s wee trees
Woodland conservationists are seeking to flush out secret seed sources for some of the country’s rarest and smallest mountain tree species.
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Support us
Couldoran appeal, West Highlands
With your support, we're working to transform a large chunk of land right next door to Ben Shieldaig into a thriving mountain haven for rare and iconic wildlife such as the golden eagle, pine marten, red squirrel and otter.
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Protecting trees and woods
Tree equity
Unequal distribution of trees in towns and cities is hitting those who could benefit most from urban greenery the hardest. This is where tree equity comes in.
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Research report
The role of trees outside woods - their ecological and landscape benefits
A report on the many ecological and landscape benefits offered by copses, hedgerows, lone trees and orchards in the UK, and why their protection is so important.
PDF (1.36 MB)
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Press centre
Dawn of the Frankenstein trees
Monstrous experiments to raise the dead are taking place at the Woodland Trust's site Yonder Oak in Devon, to boost conservation efforts.
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Blog
7 reasons to gift a tree
Want to give something unique and meaningful to your loved ones while keeping costs low? Trees are the perfect gift, whether you pick out a perfect sapling to plant, or dedicate a tree in a woodland close to their heart.
Annabel Kemp • 01 Oct 2024
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Practical guidance
The role of trees in free range poultry farming
Trees provide cover, shelter and shade, encouraging poultry to range and exhibit natural behaviours. This in turn improves bird health, welfare and production.
PDF (7.77 MB)
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Trees woods and wildlife
Identify wildlife
Wildlife is all around us, from sights and sounds to tracks and trails. Discover what's out there all year round with our identification guides.
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Press centre
Northern Ireland must increase tree planting urgently
The State of Woods and Trees 2025: Northern Ireland report reveals that Northern Ireland not only has the lowest woodland cover in the UK and Ireland, but is also failing to meet its own tree planting targets.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Cherry, wild
Beautiful blossom and a bounty of bright red fruits. Wild cherry , one of the prettiest native trees, is relished by gardeners and wildlife.
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Case study
Keeping their cool - improving water quality with trees
A case study from Wessex demonstrating how the planting of trees can reduce pollution, slow surface run-off and provide shade to cool rivers and streams.
PDF (663 KB)
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Trees woods and wildlife
British trees
Everything you need to know about British trees. From identification, folklore and history to the pests and diseases that threaten them.
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Support us
Create a tree champion
Encourage pupils to invent their own character who will be a proud voice for woods and trees.
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Practical guidance
The role of trees in arable farming
Native trees and hedges on arable farms can improve productivity and landscape resilience, increase product diversity, and provide environmental value.
PDF (2.35 MB)
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Blog
Common symptoms of tree pests and diseases
Trees can suffer from pests and diseases at any time, here we explain the most common reasons why your tree could be struggling to thrive and what symptoms to look out for.
Matt Elliot • 18 Aug 2020
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Plant trees
South West tree giveaway
We're giving away more than 20,000 trees to farmers in Devon and Cornwall in partnership with Lloyds Banking Group.