Signs of Spring at Ashdown Forest

There are some welcome signs of spring on Ashdown Forest. After record winter rainfall, the rising temperatures have kick started new growth and life across the Forest.

Visitors to the Forest will notice the yellow catkins hanging from hazel trees, the white blossom of blackthorn bushes, the coconut smell of gorse, and the green shoots of bluebells emerging through the woodland floor. Birds too are starting to become more active. The morning air is filled with songs of chaffinch, wrens, blue tits, great tits and song thrushes.

Head of Countryside Ash Walmsley said:

“With a rise in temperature we have already seen wildlife start to become more active and emerge from hibernation. Insects are on the wing, and you may be lucky enough to spot a queen bumblebee, or butterflies as they search for nectar. We have already seen red admirals, commas, peacocks, and brimstone butterflies flying across the Forest. Keep an eye on our ponds too, as newts, frogs and toads all start to return to their breeding pools.”

Spring also signals the return of a very special Forest bird. Woodlark arrive early to Ashdown Forest and are one of the first birds to start singing their fluty melody high in the Forest skies. Woodlarks spend all year in the UK but spend the winter in small flocks on nearby farmland before returning to the Forest to breed. They are ground nesting birds that choose to raise their young on the lowland heath across the south of the UK.

Ash added:

“Woodlarks are an important species to the Forest. Their success is a sign that the rare lowland heath is well maintained and able to support the rare plants and animals that thrive in this specific habitat. Woodlarks lay their eggs within a grassy tussock or heather bush, often creating a shallow scrape for the eggs to rest in. Due to their vulnerability to disturbance, it is vital that visitors stay on the paths and keep their dogs under control during the breeding season, which for woodlarks can be as early as March.”

Visitors can join one of the Forest’s free guided walks to learn more about the spring activity – the next one, “Exploring Pooh’s Country through Nature’s Lens”, is on Saturday 14 March led by Nature Conservation and Engagement Officer Mollie Matthews. There are more details on the Explore What’s On page at ashdownforest.org or the Conservators of Ashdown Forest Facebook page.