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Blog
SSSI definition: what is it and what does it mean for conservation and development?
A Site of Special Scientific Interest is a formal conservation designation. Learn how they are determined, why we have them and where to see them in the UK.
Laura Cottam • 01 Mar 2019
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Trees woods and wildlife
Wood mouse
Despite being one of our most common woodland mammals, the small, sweet and secretive wood mouse is hard to spot. They feast on nuts, seeds and invertebrates and are an important food source for larger mammals and birds of prey.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Black grouse
An iconic bird which is becoming an increasingly rare sight. The black grouse is famed for its displays during the ‘lekking’ season.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Capercaillie
The world’s largest grouse, the capercaillie is an impressive bird which has roamed pine forests for thousands of years. Made extinct in the mid-18th century, it has since made a comeback, but is under threat of extinction in the UK once more.
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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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Blog
Poisonous mushrooms: 8 most dangerous UK mushrooms
Your guide to 8 of the most poisonous mushrooms in the UK, including the terrifyingly named deathcap, destroying angel and funeral bell. Find out where they grow, how to identify them and why you should steer clear!
Hanako Shimada • 19 Feb 2025
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Blog
How invasive non-native species threaten our woods
Invasive species impact our environment and wildlife, are costly to the economy, and can even pose a risk to our health. Find out what you can do to help.
Sally Bavin • 05 Oct 2023
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Blog
7 funny fungi names to help mushroom identification
The UK's 15,000 different fungi have a rich collection of fascinating, descriptive and hilarious names. Let’s take a look at some of the more eyebrow-raising.
Charlotte Varela • 06 Jan 2023
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Blog
Outdoor Christmas activities for families
Get out into nature this Christmas and enjoy some festive activities with your family on a woodland walk.
Danielle Wesley • 13 Dec 2021
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Blog
Minibeast activities and crafts
Our arts and crafts are ideal for nature-loving kids. Make a butterfly symmetry painting, minibeast masks, rock bugs, ladybird potato stamps and more.
Danielle Wesley • 10 Jun 2019