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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.   

Trees woods and wildlife

Willow, goat

Also known as the pussy willow, the male catkins of the goat willow look like a cat’s paws. It supports lots of wildlife, including the elusive and regal purple emperor butterfly.

Trees woods and wildlife

Southern wood ant

Acid-spraying insects with a soft side. Southern wood ants roam our woods in huge gangs and have a surprising approach to finding their favourite food.

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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Hucking Estate appeal, Kent

Your support helped us extend and secure this slice of Kent countryside. Now we have a unique opportunity to create a larger site with limitless potential.

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Green rewards with the Green Tree Schools Award

The Woodland’s Trust’s free and innovative environmental scheme for schools makes learning “fantastic”, bringing focus, freedom, and fun to the classroom.

Video

Timber production during restoration in a County Antrim woodland

Continuing a 150 year history of woodland management the Shanes Castle estate is managing its woods for timber production whilst restoring the ancient woodland. 

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Trees woods and wildlife

Bracken

Huge, widespread, ancient. Bracken is thought to be the most common plant in the world and is found on all continents except Antarctica. In the UK, they thrive in woodland.

Trees woods and wildlife

Lime, common

At home on a country estate or deep in the wild, this lime is common in name only. It’s a hybrid between the small-leaved and large-leaved lime, and is a particular favourite of aphids and their many predators.