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Trees woods and wildlife

Meadowsweet

Sweet by name, sweet by nature. Meadowsweet might not be to everyone’s taste, but you’re unlikely to mistake the sickly sweet and frothy flower in damp woodland and bubbling out of damp ditches.

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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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What is lichen? Seven types of lichen found on trees

Lichen can be very visible on branches and bark at this time of year. They can be really difficult to identify, but here are seven common lichens that grow on trees.

Kylie Harrison Mellor  •  24 Apr 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Bearded tooth fungus

Tufty and beard-like, this rare and legally protected fungus has a reputation for easing dementia.

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. 

Trees woods and wildlife

Dogwood

Understated until the colder months when it bursts into colour, dogwood is a broadleaf shrub which thrives in damp woodland edges. Legend has it that the timber is so hard, it was used for crucifixes.

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What is the difference between butterflies and moths?

When the two look so similar, is there actually a difference between a butterfly and a moth? Find out how to separate the two and discover the truth behind some common myths about moths.

Charlotte Varela  •  21 Jul 2023

Trees woods and wildlife

Purple hairstreak

Small yet stunning, the purple hairstreak is rarely seen as it spends much of its time fluttering high up in the tree canopy. Reliant on oak woodland, this little butterfly is never far from oak trees.