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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

Trees woods and wildlife

Coal tit

The tiniest of tits with dull grey feathers to match its name. The coal tit is a frequent visitor to bird feeders across the UK.

Trees woods and wildlife

Great tit

A familiar face. Great tits are among our most common birds, bringing a dash of green and yellow to woodland and gardens across the country.

Trees woods and wildlife

Blue tit

The blue tit might be famed for its bright, bold plumage, but it’s much more than just a pretty face. Spot it performing acrobatic displays while on the hunt for juicy caterpillars.

Trees woods and wildlife

Long-tailed tit

Flying balls of fluff. These tiny woodland dwellers have a strong claim to be considered the UK’s cutest bird.

Blog

Environmentally-friendly gardening: 10 top tips

Work with nature to make your garden eco-friendly and cut your environmental impact. Check out our 10 easy tips that are good for wildlife and your wallet too!

Charlie Mellor  •  16 Apr 2024

Blog

Top tips for an eco-friendly and sustainable Christmas

Sustainable choices at Christmas could help the planet, save you money and make the holiday season more memorable too! Check out our top tips.

Charlie Mellor  •  20 Nov 2020

Blog

How to attract birds to your garden

Find out how to attract a range of different bird species to your garden with our top tips. 

Hannah Vickers  •  22 Jul 2020

Protecting trees and woods

Creating a neighbourhood plan

Our tips and resources for sourcing and compiling evidence to support your neighbourhood plan.

Blog

Minibeast hunt – top tips for finding bugs

Go on a minibeast hunt with your kids and see how many creepy crawlies you can find. Plus get tips on what to pack in your bug hunting kit.

Danielle Wesley  •  26 May 2023

Blog

When are conkers ready? Plus, tips for how to play

Discover the best time to collect conkers and how to prepare them for a conker fight.

Danielle Wesley  •  27 Sept 2021

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

Trees woods and wildlife

Hazel

Catkins resembling lambs tails, and late-summer nuts. Hazel is one of the most useful trees for its bendy stems and as a conservation saviour. And its nuts are loved by people, squirrels and hazel dormice.

Protecting trees and woods

How to identify ancient woodland on your land

Think your wood could be ancient? Check our tips on what to look for on site and the historical records that could help.

Trees woods and wildlife

Pine marten

Shy, curious and playful. The pine marten is a stealthy, acrobatic hunter that relies on the cover of woods and trees for its foraging missions. It’s critically endangered in England and Wales as much of its woodland habitat has been lost.

Blog

Top 10 nature gifts for kids

Nurture a love of nature from an early age with our specially selected range of gifts. From tots to teens, messy to mindful, indoors or out, our green gift guide has something for all the kids on your list.

Charlie Mellor  •  02 Dec 2024

Trees woods and wildlife

Fox

A born survivor with a bushy tail. Ever adaptable, the fox is equally at home in our woods or city streets. It sits top of the woodland food chain with a diet that takes in everything from birds and beetles to rabbits and rats.

Support us

Spreading the word

Follow our tips or use our ready-made wording to promote your fundraiser on social media or with local press.

Trees woods and wildlife

Maple, Norway

Introduced in the 17th century, the handsome Norway maple is known for its hardy timber. Its leaves are a favourite with caterpillars and its seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals.

Trees woods and wildlife

Scottish wildcat

Stealthy, rugged, not your average mog. The Scottish wildcat prowls select Scottish woods, spending its time hunting and protecting its territory. Known as the Highland tiger, this highly endangered species needs remote woodland to survive.

Trees woods and wildlife

Stoat

Fast and definitely furious. The stoat is not afraid to take on prey more than five times its size. Up trees or underground, there are few places this potent predator won’t go in search of its next meal.

Blog

Foraging in October: which wild mushrooms can you eat?

Explore the world of foraging with these top wild fungi picking and cooking tips. Here are five edible fungi that are easy to identify.

Helen Keating  •  29 Oct 2018

Blog

Foraging in September: edible wild plants and berries to look out for

Ten edible wild plants and mushrooms to forage for in September, with tips on what to look for and how to gather and eat them.

Rory Morrow  •  25 Sept 2024

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

Blog

How to make a nature trail for kids

Make your family’s woodland walks extra fun by following our top tips to create your own nature trail.

Danielle Wesley  •  15 Jul 2019

Blog

How to whittle for kids and beginners

Follow our easy whittling instructions for children and beginners with guidance, safety tips and project ideas.

Rachel Hoskins  •  02 May 2019

Blog

UK bats: a guide to bats in your garden

Explore the most likely bats you'll spot from your garden and how to help them out with our biodiversity-boosting gardening tips.

Helen Keating  •  22 May 2020

Blog

Rook, crow or raven? How to tell the difference

Crows, rooks and ravens are all part of the crow family and can be tricky to identify. Here are our tips on how to tell them apart.

Sally Bavin  •  14 Jan 2020

Trees woods and wildlife

Pear, Plymouth

Rare, charming, foul-smelling. Plymouth pear was named after where it was found in the 1800s. Its fruit feeds wildlife, and its blossom, though beautiful, has quite a smell.

Blog

Foraging in August: find food this summer

Blackberries, rowan berries and crab apples are all ripening this month. Here are six wild edible plants to collect with top tips and recipes on how to use them.

Helen Keating  •  15 Aug 2017

Trees woods and wildlife

Pine hawk-moth

A master of disguise, both as caterpillar and moth. The pine hawk-moth lives up to its name, laying its eggs on pine needles for its caterpillars to feast on.

Blog

Eco-friendly ways to recycle Christmas waste

Enjoy the festivities while limiting your environmental impact with our tips on how to responsibly dispose of Christmas cards, trees, wrapping and food.

Charlie Mellor  •  24 Dec 2020

Blog

Foraging in July: nature's best summer food for foraging

Here are our top six edible wild plants to look out for in July, with tips on what to look for and how to harvest, cook and eat them.

Helen Keating  •  08 Jul 2021

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

Blog

Swifts, swallows and martins: easy ID guide

When swifts, swallows and martins appear you know spring has arrived too! Find how to tell them apart and when to see them with our top identification tips.

Fritha West  •  05 May 2022

Blog

How to identify elderflower and what to do with it

Elderflowers are an all-time favourite forager's treat. Get our top identification tips, along with ideas and recipes on how to use the fragrant flowers.

Helen Keating  •  03 Jun 2021

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.

Press centre

Agroforestry for Scottish farming’s future

The Scottish Government is crafting its new agricultural support scheme, representing the biggest change in the support and regulation of land use and management in Scotland for 40 years.

Visiting woods

Love your woods

Our woods are home to amazing plants and animals and they're all free for people to enjoy responsibly. Show them you care with our top tips for your visit.

Trees woods and wildlife

Mistle thrush

Britain’s largest songbird. Renowned for defending its food supply. Named for its love of mistletoe berries.

Support us

Ausewell Wood appeal, Dartmoor

With its dramatic rocky outcrops, raw and rugged beauty, and precious, endangered wildlife, Ausewell Wood is the lost world that needs your help.

Trees woods and wildlife

Adder

Shy but full of surprises, the adder is the UK’s only venomous snake. It spends its days in woodland, soaking up the sun and swallowing its prey whole.

Blog

Why walking in woods is good for you

It’s time to swap the gym – or sofa – for woodland walks. Here are five benefits for your health and wellbeing, plus tips on what to wear and things to do.

Charlie Mellor  •  05 Aug 2020

Trees woods and wildlife

Deadly nightshade

Attractive, psychoactive, dangerous. Found in scrub and woodland, the deadly nightshade lives up to its name. Though highly poisonous, it feeds woodland animals and even has medicinal properties.

Press centre

High Alert installation takes public art into the woods

The Woodland Trust Northern Ireland is hosting a public art exhibition by Rob Hilken at three of its sites in August and September.

Press centre

GB plant biosecurity strategy is a missed opportunity

The Government today published its Plant Biosecurity Strategy for Great Britain. Read our reaction.

Trees woods and wildlife

Horse chestnut

Spiky cases, gleaming seeds, celebrated by children. Horse chestnuts, with their mahogany-bright conkers, are the very essence of autumn.

Press centre

Woodland Trust sets out priorities for Woodland Creation Summit

Woodland Trust Scotland has set out its priorities ahead of a Scottish Government summit this month.

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.

Blog

6 UK woods for stargazing

Escape light pollution and embrace the night sky to enjoy stargazing at a wood near you. Here are our favourite spots to see stars, plus handy stargazing tips.

Chris Britt-Searle  •  09 Feb 2024

Trees woods and wildlife

Spindle

Industrious, delicate, colourful. The spindle is at its loveliest in autumn when its leaves turn russet and its pink and orange fruits ripen. Wildlife loves its leaves and fruit, and aphids flock to it, bringing with them an array of their predators.

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

Blog

How to attract frogs to your garden

They’re fascinating, they control pests and they’re under threat – but how do you attract frogs to your garden? Read our top tips.

Charlotte Varela  •  19 Mar 2024

Blog

Foraging in May: a guide to wild herbs and other edible plants

Find out which wild plants you can forage in May. Learn about edible plants with our quick identification guide and tips on how to find, eat and prepare them.

Helen Keating  •  08 May 2019

Blog

How to make a holly wreath

Read our tips and step by step guide for how to make your own festive wreath from holly and other natural foraged materials.

Kate Lewthwaite  •  24 Nov 2020

Blog

Winter berries: what are they and where to find them

Winter berries are a vital food source for wildlife and can be foraged to make delicious seasonal treats too. Here are our tips on when and where to find them.

Charlie Mellor  •  29 Nov 2018

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.

Blog

Helicopter seeds: which trees do they come from?

Four tree species produce ‘helicopter seeds’ in the UK. Find out more with our ID guides, spotting tips and interesting facts.

Charlie Mellor  •  30 May 2019

Blog

Otters in our woods - where to find them

Did you know the clean rivers and shrubby banks of some of our woods are ideal habitat for otters? Follow our top tips for otter-spotting and find a waterside woodland near you.

Charlie Mellor  •  02 Feb 2021

Trees woods and wildlife

Common toad

Lover of damp log piles and deep leaf litter. The common toad spends much of its year in moist, shaded places, often in woodland, feeding on worms, slugs and insects.

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. 

00:05:20

Blog

Our top five woods to hear nightingales

The famous song of the nightingale is one of the wonders of the natural world, but to have a chance of hearing it you'll need to know where to listen. Here we share top tips for tracking down a serenade, plus some of our woods to try for a lucky encounter.

Amy Lewis  •  01 Apr 2022

Journal

Wood Wise – iconic oak

The summer 2019 issue of Wood Wise tells the story of oak – of its role in British culture, as a haven for wildlife, and the threats it faces.

PDF  (4.47 MB)

Trees woods and wildlife

Blackcap

Named after the male’s signature black cap, this little bird arrives in the UK each spring, bringing with it the sweet sound of its beautiful song.

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

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.

Blog

When do pine cones fall? And what to do with them

Hunting for pine cones can be a great activity for adults and children alike. Read our tips on when and where to find pine cones and fun ways to use them.

Charlie Mellor  •  06 Oct 2020

Position statement

Bovine TB in cattle and badgers - the Woodland Trust's position

The Woodland Trust does not support the culling of badgers as a means of eradicating or controlling bovine TB and will refuse access to its sites for this purpose.

PDF  (477 KB)

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

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

Trees woods and wildlife

Speckled wood

Understated yet headstrong, the speckled wood spends its time basking in sun-dappled woodland and fiercely patrolling its patch.

Support us

Smithills Estate appeal, Bolton

The largest English site we've ever acquired is now being restored to its full glory thanks to your donations.

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

Blog

How to protect your plants in winter

Top tips on how to protect your garden plants from wind, rain, frost and snow, plus other garden jobs for winter: planning, planting and helping wildlife.

Kate Lewthwaite  •  04 Nov 2020

Trees woods and wildlife

Holly blue

A delicate holly-lover with some unsavoury tastes. Find the holly blue on its foodplant in woodland, or feeding on juices from rotting fruit or carrion.

Trees woods and wildlife

Tree pipit

Small, unassuming, brown. This woodland edge insect-muncher is often overlooked. But what it lacks in looks it makes for with its belting song.

Blog

Raw rosehip syrup: how to make and use

Rosehips really became popular during World War II when fresh produce was scarce. Here are our tips for finding and cooking up these surprisingly tasty fruits.

George Anderson  •  31 Jul 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Walnut

Food of the gods, medicine for the people. Walnut was first introduced by the Romans who, like much of our native wildlife, valued its nuts.

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.

Trees woods and wildlife

Jay

A highly intelligent loudmouth. The jay is known for its love of acorns which it often leaves hidden. These forgotten snacks are credited with the rapid spread of oaks after the last Ice Age.

Trees woods and wildlife

Song thrush

Famous for smashing open snails and for the sweet song which gives this bird its name. The song thrush was once a common sight in UK woodland, but is sadly in decline.

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

Practical guidance

Benefits of woods and trees for local authorities

This document provides guidance and advice for local government to better achieve its environmental ambitions.

PDF  (549 KB)

Journal

Wood Wise – life in deadwood

The autumn 2019 issue of Wood Wise dispels any myths about deadwood and raises awareness of its importance to people and wildlife.

PDF  (4.01 MB)

Trees woods and wildlife

Dark crimson underwing moth

A rare beauty – the dark crimson underwing moth startles predators with its deep red hindwings and depends on mature oak trees for survival.

About us

Reconnecting Grantham to its historic landscape

We've worked with the National Trust, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, to link Londonthorpe Woods and Bellmount, the eastern part of the Belton House estate. The project has united accessible green space on the edge of Grantham to help more people experience nature on their doorstep.

Trees woods and wildlife

Hornbeam

Gnarled and mighty, the hornbeam is as tough as they come. It’s beautiful, useful, and its year-round leaf cover makes it a winter haven for wildlife.

Trees woods and wildlife

Snowdrop

One of the first signs of spring. While not native to these shores, these hardy flowers have become a familiar indicator of the shifting seasons and a sure sign that warmer weather is on its way.

Trees woods and wildlife

Cocksfoot grass

Tenacious and hard to budge. When other grasses succumb to drought, cocksfoot can be relied on for its perseverance; its deep roots and dense, tussocky growth securing its survival.

Trees woods and wildlife

Willow, crack

Scruffy and loud, the crack willow is named after its habit of splitting with cracks and fissures, and how noisy its branches are when they break. It’s one of the largest willows and its leaves are popular with moth caterpillars.

Trees woods and wildlife

Orange ladybird

A bright, cheery leaf-lover. The orange ladybird spends its winters nestled in the leaf litter and its summers feasting on mildew in the canopy.

Trees woods and wildlife

Common centipede

Scuttling hunter with a venomous kick. The common centipede uses its many legs to hunt other invertebrates on the woodland floor.

Trees woods and wildlife

Mayfly

Known for its short adult life, the mayfly is here for a good time, not a long time. Emerging between May and August, it dances above freshwater rivers and lakes to find a mate.

Press centre

Woodland Trust nears tree protection milestone as Living Legends petition gathers pace

A petition calling for stronger laws to protect important trees like the Sycamore Gap is tantalisingly close to its 100,000 target, says the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity.

Blog

What is hoar frost and how does it form?

Discover what hoar frost looks like, how it got its name and the conditions it needs to form.

Emilie Bonnevay  •  21 Feb 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Sparrowhawk

With brilliant yellow eyes and long yellow talons, this small yet skilful predator swoops down to ambush its prey unawares. Strongly reliant on woodland, the sparrowhawk has been threatened in the past but is currently widespread throughout the UK.

Journal

Wood Wise – secrets of the soil

The spring 2016 issue of Wood Wise delves into woodland soil, its function, its species, the threats to its health, and ways to manage it for the future.

PDF  (1.39 MB)

Blog

When to pick sloes and how to make sloe gin

It's traditional to make sloe gin in autumn, ready for the coming winter. Here's an easy and delicious recipe for you to try, with our top sloe picking tips. It takes a couple of months to mature, so if you make it soon it'll be ready by Christmas.

Helen Keating  •  15 Sept 2020

Visiting woods

Walking dogs in our woods

Dogs are welcome for walkies in our woods. Take a look at our tips and guidelines for ensuring we keep our woods safe and special for dogs and wildlife.

Trees woods and wildlife

Brown long-eared bat

Known as the 'whispering' bat for its almost silent echolocation noises, this little bat's huge ears make it an expert woodland insect hunter.

Trees woods and wildlife

Stag beetle

Impressive, heavily armed and a formidable fighter. The stag beetle depends on trees and woods for its survival. Its fat larvae feed on the decaying wood of old broadleaved trees. Loss of its woodland habitat means that the stag beetle is now a nationally scarce species.

Visiting woods

Gillian's Wood

We are restoring this ancient woodland site to its former glory. 

Video

A legacy for future generations

The Ukrainian Youth Association in Great Britain planted 420 free trees in Derbyshire to have a lasting impact for its community.

00:02:45

Trees woods and wildlife

Chiffchaff

A dainty warbler named after its song. Chiffchaffs are increasingly taking advantage of the UK’s warming climate by staying here all year long.

Trees woods and wildlife

Porcelain fungus

A glistening white, translucent beauty which fights off its rivals with its own fungicide. It is associated with beech trees and is edible – but only once the off-putting mucus is washed off.

Trees woods and wildlife

Bank vole 

Stout but speedy, the bank vole skitters around woodland and dense vegetation looking for blackberries, nuts and fungi. It uses its large ears to listen out for its many predators, such as the fox and kestrel.

Trees woods and wildlife

Temperate rainforest

Also known as Atlantic or Celtic rainforest, this special habitat is incredibly rare. Its lush conditions are perfect for scarce plants, lichens and fungi, as well as a number of unusual animals.

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.

Blog

When do hedgehogs hibernate? And other animals that hibernate

As temperatures start to fall, wildlife turns its attentions to surviving the winter. But where do hedgehogs and other species go in the worst weather?

Charlie Mellor  •  18 Sept 2020

Trees woods and wildlife

Walnut, black

A handsome healer, the black walnut is both ornamental and medicinally valuable. It’s a favourite with squirrels, and its timber is extra pricey.

Trees woods and wildlife

Hornet

The king of the wasps with a fearsome reputation, the hornet is actually much less aggressive than its smaller cousin, the common wasp.

Blog

True or false? Rainforest facts quiz

Do you know how Britain's rainforest measures up against its tropical cousins? How about the plants, animals and climate? Test your knowledge and learn about these amazing places with our rainforest facts quiz.

Charlie Mellor  •  18 Jun 2025

Christmas

Christmas

Our activities, top tips and gifts have got you covered this Christmas, from eco-friendly present ideas and our favourite winter walks to last minute virtual gifts and recycling after the big day.

Trees woods and wildlife

Wren

Plump, short and loud-mouthed, the wren is one of our most common breeding birds. Though it’s small in size, it makes up for it with its powerful song.

Trees woods and wildlife

Hazel gloves fungus

An Atlantic rainforest specialist and a clue that points to a wood's ancient origins. It makes its home almost exclusively on old hazel trees and is a sure sign of clean air.

Support us

Mead appeal, Derbyshire

With your help we can achieve our vision for Derbyshire's Young People's Forest and begin to realise its amazing potential.

Press centre

Young nature enthusiasts let creativity shine at Maldwyn 2024 Urdd Eisteddfod

Coed Cadw, the Woodland Trust in Wales, has announced the winners of its ‘Getting Creative With Nature’ Key Stage 2 competition, held in collaboration with the Urdd.

Trees woods and wildlife

Buckthorn, purging

Prickly and with the ability to purge. This plant’s common name harks back its use as a laxative. It’s a fierce, invasive species in North America.

Plant trees

Natural regeneration

The UK needs more trees. We plant millions of native trees every year, but planting is just one way to help the UK's woodlands expand. Allowing nature to take its course is also an effective and efficient method of getting more trees in the ground.

Trees woods and wildlife

Birch, silver

Pretty, pale, a symbol of purity. This common tree, with its silver-white bark, is favoured by gardeners who want to renew and purify their land for coming year.

Trees woods and wildlife

Herb-robert

Pretty, pink and healing, herb-robert flourishes in woodland from spring to late summer. Spot its bright flowers in shady spots in woods and grasslands.

Trees woods and wildlife

Oak, red

Fiery, fast and spiked, the red oak is a fast-growing tree native to North America. It is often planted as an ornamental tree for its flaming autumn colour. Although it isn’t as valuable to wildlife as our native oaks, it’s popular with nesting birds and pollinators.

Trees woods and wildlife

Turtle dove

Named after its 'tur tur' call, the turtle dove is romantic, enigmatic, and at risk. It nests in shrubs and trees and feeds on the seeds of crops and woodland plants.

Position statement

Genetically Modified Organisms – the Trust’s position

The Woodland Trust is opposed to unenclosed GM crop or tree release and does not permit the involvement of any of its sites in field trials.

PDF  (387 KB)

Trees woods and wildlife

Lime, small-leaved

Charming, sturdy, pollinator-magnet. Not only does the small-leaved lime’s blossom produce a sweet scent and pleasantly minty honey, its leaves support the caterpillars of moths such as the lime hawk, peppered and vapourer.

Partnerships

Bettys & Taylors Group

Bettys & Taylors Group are partnering with the Woodland Trust at its flagship woodland creation project in the Yorkshire Dales.

Partnerships

Pets at Home

A thriving partnership in its sixth year with more than £1 million donated to protect, restore and create almost 8,000 acres of woodland.

Trees woods and wildlife

Roe deer

Nimble and fleet of foot. The roe is our most widely distributed deer, found in woods across the country. Look out for its white rump flashing as it acrobatically bounds through the trees.

Trees woods and wildlife

Apple

Tart, tangy and crisp. The fruit of the apple tree is a firm favourite in the UK. And although they’re not native, we’ve been breeding them for centuries as eaters, cookers and to make cider.

Blog

Hazelnuts: where and when to forage

Our tips on where and when to find hazelnuts in the wild, how to prepare these tasty treats, and the woodland animals that love eating them too.

Laura Cottam  •  05 Aug 2019

Blog

10 common garden birds to spot on your bird feeder

Find out all about the common British garden birds, what to feed them and how to identify them.

Hannah Vickers  •  21 Mar 2019

Case study

Timber products from ancient woodland restoration

A case study demonstrating how one woodland owner is making restoration pay its way – by using extracted timber for flooring in a factory renovation project.

PDF  (732 KB)

Position statement

Deer management - the Woodland Trust's position

The Woodland Trust monitors and manages deer numbers on its estate where over-grazing poses a significant threat to vulnerable habitats and conservation outcomes.

PDF  (70 KB)

Trees woods and wildlife

Cow parsley

A true roadside stunner, cow parsley is a familiar sight in the UK. It’s a hardy plant which is popular with pollinators and grows just about anywhere.

Trees woods and wildlife

Dead man’s fingers

Swollen, blackened ‘fingers’ reaching for the sky. Aptly named, dead man’s fingers can be a spooky-looking find.

Trees woods and wildlife

Mistletoe

Romantic, parasitic and poisonous, mistletoe loves broadleaf trees and provides an important habitat for woodland wildlife. Its leathery green leaves offer welcome colour among bare winter branches when much else is dormant.

Trees woods and wildlife

Pine, black

Looming, handsome, graveyard-dweller. The black pine is common in shelterbelts, gardens and timber yards alike. Despite being huge, this non-native conifer isn’t a favourite with wildlife, though birds do enjoy its seeds.

Blog

What do hedgehogs eat? And how to feed them

Hedgehogs need our help and you can make a difference. Check out our guide to what food hedgehogs eat, when you should feed them and other useful tips.

Charlie Mellor  •  15 Mar 2024

Blog

What does fox poo look like? And other animal poo identification tips

It may be messy and a little bit smelly, but animal poo can tell us a lot about the wildlife in our woods and gardens.

Charlotte Varela  •  20 Sept 2022

Trees woods and wildlife

Red-necked longhorn beetle

The red-necked longhorn beetle is native to eastern Asia and is a serious threat to trees in the genus Prunus like cherries and plums. Its larvae tunnel and feed under the bark and in the wood causing low fruit yield and possible death.

Blog

When do birds nest?

Some birds nest earlier than others. Find out all about the time of year birds nest and which are the earliest nesters.

Hannah Vickers  •  17 Jan 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Oak, English

The ruling majesty of the woods, the wise old English oak holds a special place in our culture, history, and hearts. It supports more life than any other native tree species in the UK; even its fallen leaves support biodiversity.

Trees woods and wildlife

Spruce, Sitka

Imposing, aged, useful. The Sitka spruce accounts for around half of commercial plantations, and though it’s not as valuable as our native trees, it shelters birds and small mammals.

Trees woods and wildlife

Common gorse

With bright, beaming yellow flowers with the scent of coconut, common gorse is a sight to behold.

Trees woods and wildlife

Mammals

Explore UK mammals and get our tips on how to identify them, where to see them and why they're important.

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.

Blog

First signs of spring in nature

Spring is a glorious time in nature with new leaves, bright blooms and thriving wildlife. But when does spring really start and what are the key signs to look for?

Charlie Mellor  •  19 Feb 2021

Trees woods and wildlife

Bearded tooth fungus

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

Blog

Foraging in April: edible wild plants to harvest

April is the time to look out for fresh new greens and herbs to give your food a seasonal springtime boost. Here are seven easy-to-identify edible herbs and plants to look out for.

Helen Keating  •  27 Apr 2023

Trees woods and wildlife

Willow, osier

Strong, neat and bendy, osier willow is the best of the best for basket weaving. It’s not only a source of food and shelter for native wildlife, it can even decontaminate soils it is planted on!

Protecting trees and woods

Don't let Government ditch its environment protection promise

After months of uncertainty about Government’s commitment to protect and restore nature, we still need answers. Abandoning nature is not an option.

Trees woods and wildlife

Pendulous sedge

Attractive, strong, damp-lover. Spot pendulous sedge swooning in damp woodland and river banks. It’s useful in a pinch, with edible seeds and strong leaves that can be made into rope and matting.

Press centre

Early signs of spring becoming the new norm, says the Woodland Trust

Earlier signs of spring – such as the first leafing of trees or the first sightings of butterflies – could be here to stay, says the Woodland Trust.

Trees woods and wildlife

Greater stitchwort

Pretty, star-like and abundant along hedgerows. These plants have an explosive seed-dispersal mechanism. Disturb a large patch of them in summer and they go off like fireworks.

Blog

Dawn Chorus: why do birds sing in the morning?

Learn why birds sing in the morning and other facts about the dawn chorus.

James Martin  •  19 Apr 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Common striated feather-moss

Cushions of feathery green moss strewn nonchalantly over the woodland floor, common striated feather-moss is one cool customer. It brings colour to shady places and it is a characteristic of old ash woodlands in particular.

Trees woods and wildlife

Bramble

Hardy and determined, the bramble uses powerful roots to grow rapidly in almost any environment. Look out for juicy blackberries in the summer to make the most of this countryside favourite.

Blog

Squirrel nests: where and how do they build them?

Find out what squirrel nests looks like, where you can spot them and how you can help our native red squirrel.

Charlie Mellor  •  15 Sept 2025

Blog

Foxglove and other poisonous plants: a list of toxic plants in the UK

A quick guide to five of the most poisonous plants you may encounter on a countryside walk in the UK. Learn how to recognise them and get fascinating facts on their toxicity.

Helen Keating  •  01 Jul 2020

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

Support us

Avoncliff Wood appeal, Bath

We can now keep this sleeping beauty safe forever and the magic of its unspoiled ancient woodland alive.

Blog

Venomous animals in the UK

From secretive snakes to furry shrews, find out more about the UK’s venomous species that pack a potent punch.

Annabel Kemp  •  31 Jul 2024

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

Blog

Seven edible weeds: foraging in your garden

If you're a fan of foraging but missing roaming the woods and hedgerows right now, go in search of some edible plants that are closer to home. Here are seven edible garden weeds to look out for.

Helen Keating  •  23 Apr 2020

Blog

Feeding wild birds: what, how, when and why

Find out when and what to feed garden birds and welcome wildlife to your garden, yard or windowsill whatever the season.    

Kayleigh Jacobs-Rutter  •  29 Apr 2025

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

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

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

Blog

Foraging in March: spring's edible plants

Spring has arrived and the woods and hedgerows are about to burst with edible spring greens, shoots and flowers. Find out which ones you can eat and what to do with them.

Helen Keating  •  28 Mar 2018

Blog

Wild marjoram: what is it, where to find it and how to plant it

It's a herb we sprinkle liberally on pizza and pasta. And so we'd be forgiven for thinking oregano, also known as wild marjoram, only grows around the Mediterranean. But did you know it's actually native to the UK?

Helen Keating  •  10 Jul 2018

Blog

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

Blog

Elephant hawk-moth: caterpillar, lifecycle and is it poisonous?

Elephant hawk-moths are big, bright and very, very beautiful. But what do elephant hawk-moth caterpillars look like, where does their name come from, and are they poisonous?

Charlotte Varela  •  08 Jul 2024

Trees woods and wildlife

Flat-backed millipede

Many-legged leaf eaters that live a secretive life hidden among the forest floor.

Visiting woods

Glas-na-Bradan Wood

The important landscape of Glas-na-Bradan Wood is home to lots of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians. 

Visiting woods

Mourne Park

Thanks to your generous support, Mourne Park’s gates are open to all. Experience the wonder of Northern Ireland’s ancient woodlands, with scenic views, trails and rich wildlife waiting to be discovered. We invite you to be part of its story.

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.

Blog

Bird song: Blackcap, chiffchaff and more

Find out how to identify the bird song of blackcaps, chiffchaffs and other birds.

Hannah Vickers  •  03 Apr 2020

Blog

Rowan jelly: how to find and make it

Rowan, with its fiery red berries, is a tree that's difficult to miss at the moment. If you want to try foraging this is a great way to start. Get top identification tips and a step-by-step recipe on how to make rowan jelly.

Helen Keating  •  13 Aug 2018

Trees woods and wildlife

Beaver

Architects of the animal world, beavers are back in the UK’s rivers after centuries away. These dam-building rodents can transform their local environment by creating new wetland habitats.

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.

Trees woods and wildlife

Plum

A butterfly’s paradise with lovely blossom and even lovelier fruit. The plum is a petite tree which is perfect for pollinators and a perfect addition to any orchard.

Trees woods and wildlife

Woodlouse spider

Woodlouse assassin and protective mum. This feisty arachnid is perfectly equipped to take on tough customers – and other spiders won’t mess with it either.

About us

Rainforest recovery

We're protecting, restoring and creating temperate rainforest in Cornwall, Devon and Exmoor, and inspiring others to do the same.

Trees woods and wildlife

Meadow foxtail

Upright and bushy-tailed, meadow foxtail is a charming addition to any meadow. It provides food and habitats for a variety of invertebrates, including the caterpillars of the Essex skipper butterfly.

Trees woods and wildlife

Oak, Turkey

A pretender to the throne, the Turkey oak was introduced to the UK in the 1700s and is now impacting our native oak populations. It’s less valuable to wildlife, but much faster growing and a host of the knopper oak gall wasp.

Trees woods and wildlife

Juniper

A cosy home for wildlife and a gin-drinker’s delight, the juniper is a much-loved evergreen that brightens up the winter months.

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.

Trees woods and wildlife

Nightingale

Nightingales are relatively dull in colour but they are famed for their rich and distinctive song.

Trees woods and wildlife

Poplar, black

Imposing, elegant, rare. The black poplar was once a staple of Britain’s landscape but these days, the trees are few and far between.

Trees woods and wildlife

Cypress, Lawson

Tall ornamental with feathery foliage. One of the UK’s most popular garden conifers, Lawson cypress has rot-resistant wood which is popular in Japan for coffins and shrines.

Trees woods and wildlife

Brown rat

A contentious character but as resourceful as they come, the brown rat arrived in the UK in the 18th century and has been a crafty resident of our towns, cities and woods ever since.

Trees woods and wildlife

Lime, large-leaved

Towering, romantic, sticky. Large-leaved lime is a handsome broadleaf tree that is a rich home for wildlife. Find out more.

Trees woods and wildlife

Brown trout

A powerful predator and an iconic British fish, the brown trout is a common sight in streams and rivers throughout the UK.

Trees woods and wildlife

Wheatear

These migratory birds are seasoned travellers, embarking on an epic journey from Africa to the UK each spring. They favour upland habitats and nest in cavities between rocks.

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.

About us

Saving Scotland's rainforest

We're working to ensure Scotland’s rainforests thrive once again. As part of the Alliance for Scotland’s Rainforest, we're on a mission to protect and enhance this globally important habitat for the special wildlife that depends upon it.

Blog

What do robins eat?

Find out what robins eat in the wild and what you can leave in your garden to feed them.

Rachel Hoskins  •  01 Dec 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Sycamore

Familiar, romantic, sticky. Sycamore might have been introduced by the Romans or in the 1500s. Since then, it’s colonised woodland, becoming a source of food and shelter for wildlife including aphids that leave behind their tacky honeydew.

Trees woods and wildlife

Common dog violet

A charming sanctuary for butterflies, common in UK woodland. Look to the woodland floor for a flush of purple and you might see fritillary butterflies feeding and laying their eggs.

Visiting woods

Walking

Taking a walk in the woods is the easiest way to enjoy the outdoors and get closer to nature. From woodland glade to unexplored pathways, where will your visit to the woods take you?

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. The timber is so hard, it was used for crucifixes.

Trees woods and wildlife

Forest bug

A living woodland crest, the forest bug is a shieldbug that loves nothing more than the sap of oak trees. Look for them on woodland edges in the summer.

Policy paper

The Woodland Trust's approach to managing its estate

The Woodland Trust owns more than 1,000 woods across the UK. This is how we manage them for people and wildlife in the face of climate change and other threats.

PDF  (1.21 MB)

Blog

Bird song identification: songs and calls for beginners

How many birds can you identify by sound alone? Learn to tell some of the UK's most familiar and distinct bird songs apart with our handy guide.

Kayleigh Jacobs-Rutter  •  13 Feb 2024

Trees woods and wildlife

Greater horseshoe bat

Rare and highly agile. Look out for the greater horseshoe bat along woodland edges at dawn and dusk. The longest-lived bat in the UK, it has become scarce due to a loss of insect prey and habitat.

Trees woods and wildlife

Holly

Festive, neat and prickly. Holly is a well-loved shrub that shelters birds and gives hedgehogs a cosy place to hibernate.

Trees woods and wildlife

Timothy grass

A gentle and swaying irritant. Though this grass is a favourite with insects and farmers, it may well be to blame for your hay fever! It is a very common allergen, but is now being used in a cure to your seasonal sneezes.

Trees woods and wildlife

Lily-of-the-valley

Charming, sweetly scented and highly poisonous, lily-of-the-valley is a romantic woodland stunner.

Trees woods and wildlife

Spruce, Norway

Festive, useful, squirrel food. Made popular by Prince Albert, Norway spruce is a familiar non-native, with friendly winter colour and a value to native wildlife.

Trees woods and wildlife

Maple, field

Pollution fighter, autumn stunner, syrup maker. The field maple is a sturdy broadleaf, which supports caterpillars, aphids, and all their predators, all while resisting air pollution.

Trees woods and wildlife

Wood anemone

Sun-loving, gentle, a mark of the old. Wood anemone is one of the first spring blooms, arriving to take in the light through the leafless canopy in broadleaf woodland. Look for them in old and ancient woodland that suits their slow growth.

Trees woods and wildlife

Alder

Swamp-dweller, water-lover. The wood of this tough tree doesn’t rot when waterlogged, instead turning stronger and harder.

Trees woods and wildlife

Yew

Ancient, morbid, toxic. The yew is one of the longest-lived native species in Europe. This has made it a symbol of death and doom, but it provides food and shelter for woodland animals.

Support us

Have a tree party

Celebrate the UK’s incredible trees and woods with an outdoor party or picnic.

Trees woods and wildlife

Red deer

The majestic monarch of the glen. Our largest land mammal, red deer, are the royalty of UK woodland. 

Blog

Where have my garden birds gone?

Why do birds stop using feeders and disappear from gardens when the breeding season finishes? Where do they go, and what are they getting up to?

Amy Lewis  •  11 Sept 2020

Trees woods and wildlife

Oak, sessile

Less famous than English oak, but no less loved, the sessile oak towers in the woods. Squirrels, jays and badgers love their acorns and caterpillars flock to eat their leaves, in fact 326 species of wildlife are found only on oak.

Plant trees

How to plant and maintain native hedges

The small but mighty hedge packs a punch for people and nature, sheltering wildlife, cleaning our air, capturing carbon and much more. Explore how and when to plant and prune your hedge for the best results.​

Trees woods and wildlife

Greenfinch

A chunky-looking finch with a taste for sunflower seeds. Spring just wouldn't be the same without the male's wheezing song.

Event

Month of Remembrance walk at Langley Vale Wood

Join us at Langley Vale Wood - our First World War Centenary Wood for England - for a guided walk during the Month of Remembrance.

Sun 02 Nov 2025  •  Langley Vale Wood, Langley Vale

Trees woods and wildlife

Scaly male fern

Poised, damp-loving, hardy. The scaly male fern is a tough old specimen that thrives in damp woodland, as well as on open heaths and hillsides.

Blog

How to build a nest box for birds

Find out how to make your very own DIY nest box for your garden, to give birds a safe place to nest over the coming months. 

Hannah Vickers  •  25 Feb 2021

Trees woods and wildlife

Caledonian forest and native conifer woods

For millennia, Caledonian pine forests blanketed loch sides and glen. Home to myth, legend, and rare wildlife, only a tiny fragment of this once vast landscape now remains. Other native coniferous woods include rare juniper and yew woodlands.

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

Blog

How to prune apple trees in winter

Follow these simple winter pruning tips to keep your apple trees looking good and producing a great crop each season.

Helen Keating  •  22 Dec 2017

Trees woods and wildlife

Orange-tip

Subtle, delicate and well-disguised – that is until the male flashes a splash of bright orange. Orange-tips are a butterfly of grassland and woodland edges.

Trees woods and wildlife

Tree bumblebee

A new arrival and a welcome addition to the UK's bumblebees. This enterprising bee has quickly set up home across Britain and happily takes to nest boxes and other human-made spaces in our gardens.

Blog

Foraging in October: berries and nuts to find this autumn

Discover our top foraging finds for October with tips on where to find the best wild foods, when and how to use them.

Rory Morrow  •  06 Oct 2025

Trees woods and wildlife

Wet woodland

Wild, transient, boggy and rare. Wet woodlands are now some of our least common wooded habitats. Trees like alder, willows and birch dominate on wet soils, whilst sedges, ferns and mosses flourish beneath.

Blog

How to grow native bluebells in your garden

Why not try growing bluebells in your garden? Here are six good reasons why, along with our top bluebell growing tips.

Kate Lewthwaite  •  28 Mar 2019

Blog

Foraging in June: edible flowers, plants and herbs

From fresh flowers to tender leaves, here are some edible plants to forage in June. These are my top tips on where to find them, and how to turn them into something tasty.

Helen Keating  •  24 Jun 2021

Press centre

Clock is ticking for Britain’s incredibly rare rainforests

The Woodland Trust is highlighting the plight of its special rainforests to coincide with World Rainforest Day. Despite fears over the future of the Britain’s rainforests, much is being done on the ground to protect these special habitats. 

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

Press centre

A huge win for irreplaceable ancient woodland

Oldhouse Warren ancient woodland has had a stay of execution after Center Parcs abandoned its plans to develop a new village within this irreplaceable habitat.

Blog

Eco-friendly travel: 10 woods to visit by train

Head off on an eco-friendly woodland adventure that starts with a romantic rail journey.

Kayleigh Jacobs-Rutter  •  02 Apr 2024

Blog

7 signs of winter in nature

Winter is a magical time, with crisp mornings and chilly starlit evenings. Discover when winter really starts and some of the best signs to look and listen out for.

Charlie Mellor  •  26 Nov 2021

Blog

Pine martens: where they live, what they eat and other facts

They may look cute and cuddly, but with fierce teeth and claws and an appetite for small mammals, the elusive pine marten is anything but! Learn more about this iconic woodland species and how we're helping to secure its future.

Charlie Mellor  •  14 Jun 2018

Trees woods and wildlife

Brook lamprey

Reclusive, primitive and eel-like. The brook lamprey is an ancient and rarely seen fish found in the rivers and streams of several of our woods. It lives most of its life as a larva buried in the silty stream bed before turning into an adult and swimming upstream to spawn - its last act before it dies.

Press centre

Over 900 Insect Species Identified at “Commando” Wood in the Scottish Highlands

Ecologist Ian Strachan discovers 946 invertebrate species in Scotland's Loch Arkaig Pine Forest, highlighting its rich biodiversity and historical significance.

Blog

Climate change: facts and actions for kids

Our simple guide will help kids understand climate change, what’s causing it and how it’s affecting the planet. Plus, we'll share some top tips to help kids take action.

Danielle Wesley  •  15 Oct 2021

Press centre

Spot spring’s vital signs and help the Woodland Trust record the impact of climate change on nature

The Woodland Trust is urging people to get outside and spot vital signs of spring to help monitor potentially “disastrous” effects of climate change on nature, before its campaign ends on Easter Monday.

Trees woods and wildlife

Willow warbler

A common and dainty summer visitor with a mournful song that rings through the trees. The willow warbler likes to sing and shake its feathers while it forages for insects.

Blog

What to do if you find a baby bird

Stumbled across a baby bird on the ground? Find out what to do to ensure its survival.

Charlotte Varela  •  14 Jun 2019

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

Trees woods and wildlife

Oakbug milkcap

Stinky and unimpressive. Oakbug milkcap is a dull-looking fungus that is easily missed in woodland among its more spectacular cousins. It is edible, though is not to everyone’s taste, and is said to have an oily smell, similar to bed bugs. Yum.

Trees woods and wildlife

Eucalyptus

Pleasant smelling, antiseptic, highly flammable. Eucalyptus might be the favourite of koalas in its native Australia, but in the UK it is insects which are drawn to its rich oil.

Trees woods and wildlife

Monkey puzzle

Distinctive and spiky, the monkey puzzle has been making strong impressions since dinosaurs roamed the earth. These days, jays and squirrels feast on its nuts.

Trees woods and wildlife

Box, common

A native evergreen that’s at home in your garden. Box is so special it’s got a hill named after it. Box Hill in Surrey takes its name from the ancient box woodland on its steep chalk slopes.

Trees woods and wildlife

Great spotted woodpecker

Not afraid to make itself heard. The great spotted woodpecker is equipped with a toolkit that makes it a true woodland specialist. Its strong beak and shock-absorbing skull are perfect for finding food and making its home among the trees.

Trees woods and wildlife

Hawthorn shieldbug

Leaf-munching minibeasts. The hawthorn shieldbug takes its name from the tree that it relies on for food.

Trees woods and wildlife

Poplar leaf beetle

A bright-coloured, picky eater. The poplar leaf beetle spends its time munching on the leaves of willows and, you guessed it, poplars.

Trees woods and wildlife

Chaffinch

Colourful characters. The chaffinch is one of our most common birds, but that doesn’t detract from its beauty.

Trees woods and wildlife

Oak bush-cricket

This champion of the woodland long-jump is a lot quieter than its other cricket cousins. The oak bush-cricket lives, feeds and breeds in trees and woodland.

Trees woods and wildlife

Common crossbill

Bright colours and big beaks. The crossbill is a striking resident of coniferous woodland, using its unusually-shaped bill to extract pine seeds.

Trees woods and wildlife

Kestrel

A hovering hunter that strikes from above. The kestrel is a common sight along woodland edges, using its razor-sharp vision to catch unsuspecting prey.

Trees woods and wildlife

Brimstone

A common master of disguise, the brimstone blends perfectly into the alder leaves it lays its eggs on. Spot them in early spring when they emerge from hibernation.

Trees woods and wildlife

Deathwatch beetle

Destroyer of wood. Omen of death. The deathwatch beetle might be small, but it can have a big impact. Listen out for its rhythmic tapping in old trees and buildings.

Trees woods and wildlife

Wood warbler

A woodland songster often heard trilling through the treetops, the wood warbler graces the UK with its rich song during the summer, before migrating to Africa for the winter.

Trees woods and wildlife

Common rough woodlouse

Hardy, hungry, excellent composters. The humble woodlouse munches its way through just about anything it can find and is an expert in recycling nutrients.

Blog

Where and when do robins nest?

The robin, with its signature red breast and tuneful song, is one of the UK’s best-loved birds. Find out where and when these fiery fellas nest, and how you can lend them a helping hand.

Hannah Vickers  •  08 Feb 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Cherry, bird

A stunning, scented show-stopper of a tree. In spring, nectar-loving animals flock to this beautiful tree for its almond-scented blossom.

Trees woods and wildlife

Goshawk

Back from the brink of extinction, the goshawk is the ultimate woodland predator. Its wings are tailor-made for weaving through trees and hunting almost anything it outsizes.

Trees woods and wildlife

Aspen

Trembling, fluttering and shimmering in the slightest breeze. The rippling leaves of this beautiful tree give it its name: quaking aspen.

Trees woods and wildlife

Fine streaked bugkin

Lover of oak and hawthorn, this bug is pretty unmistakeable. Look out for its bright and bold markings as it basks on bark and leaves.

Trees woods and wildlife

Willow, grey

A soft, silvery lover of damp woodland, the grey willow is a bit scruffy but full of charm. Caterpillars flock to feed on its leaves and its fuzzy catkins are an early pollen source for pollinators.

Trees woods and wildlife

Purple emperor

Despite its exotic appearance, the purple emperor is as typical of UK woodland as the mighty oak. It’s elusive and beautiful, but has quite the unsavoury appetite.

Trees woods and wildlife

Hawfinch

This big-billed heavyweight can easily crush a cherry stone, but the UK’s largest finch is shy and hard to spot, spending most of its time in the canopy.

Trees woods and wildlife

Crab apple

A symbol of fertility and a forager's delight. Crab apple trees are associated with love and marriage and its small, hard fruits make an exquisite, jewel-coloured jelly.

Trees woods and wildlife

Ringlet

With chocolate brown velvety wings and a delicate trim, the ringlet is an understated yet attractive butterfly. Look out for its trademark bobbing flight as it travels through woodland glades.

Trees woods and wildlife

Hard fern

An evergreen beauty with not one, but two types of frond. Its medicinal qualities have helped treat ailments for centuries, while its leaves have been used to subdue hunger and thirst.

Trees woods and wildlife

Peacock

Big. Bold. Beautiful. This stunning showstopper is instantly recognisable, with its captivating azure ‘eyes’ and orange-brown wings. Widespread and common throughout the UK, it is one of our most-loved butterflies.

Video

Geraint Davies, upland sheep and beef farmer

Find out why Geraint has planted new hedgerows, more streamside trees, and increased tree cover on his Ffridd.

00:04:00

Video

Protecting and restoring temperate rainforest in Devon

See how we're working with organisations including Plantlife and the National Trust to protect and restore temperate rainforest sites across Devon.

00:06:32

Trees woods and wildlife

Dog rose

A familiar, scrambling beauty that adorns hedgerows with its pale pink flowers. Dog rose clasps on to other shrubs with curved spines to grow.

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

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.

Video

Hilary Hinks - volunteer heritage researcher

Find out more about Hilary's volunteering and why she was nominated for an award.

00:03:04

Trees woods and wildlife

Willow, bay

Small but pretty, the bay willow is named after its smell and misleading appearance. It’s a lover of damp conditions, and feeder of pollinators and caterpillars.

Trees woods and wildlife

Gatekeeper

Named for its rigorous patrol of hedges and woodland rides, the gatekeeper butterfly is a prime pollinator. Look for them sipping nectar on sunny days in the summer.

Trees woods and wildlife

Redwing

Named after its rouge underwings, the redwing is the smallest thrush in the UK. A social nomad, this berry-loving bird only visits over the winter months, with just a handful of breeding pairs staying here all year round.

Trees woods and wildlife

White admiral

Found exclusively in woodland, the white admiral is a stunning butterfly with a delicate gliding flight. Unlike its sun-loving peers, this black and white beauty prefers shady spots to relax in.

Trees woods and wildlife

Rowan

Bane of witches, diviner of the future and producer of jam, rowan is an elegant tree with a mystical history. Its leaves and berries are a favourite for wildlife in woods and towns alike.

Video

Improve livestock health and wellbeing

David Brass, CEO of The Lakes Free Range Egg Company, has seen improvements in animal health as well as commercial benefits for his farm after planting trees. 

00:02:07

Press centre

Highland lodge announced as Scottish Rainforest Centre

95-year old Couldoran House will be reborn as the Scottish Rainforest Centre and operate as a hub in efforts to conserve the rare and threatened habitat.

Trees woods and wildlife

Birch, downy

Soft on the outside. Tough on the inside. On a global scale, this tree, with its fuzzy leaf stalks, shoots and twigs, grows further north than any other broadleaf species.

Trees woods and wildlife

Bilberry

Traditional healer and tea-time favourite. This low-growing shrub has potent medicinal powers harnessed for almost a thousand years, while its blue-black berries make excellent jams, pies and liqueurs.

Trees woods and wildlife

Bullfinch

Shy but striking. Bullfinches bring a brilliant burst of colour to the UK’s woods. The species depends on trees for much of its food, feeding on seeds and buds.

Blog

What can I do about climate change?

Climate change can feel overwhelming. But there's plenty you can do to have an impact. We've put together seven top tips for fighting back.

Helen Keating  •  12 Nov 2021

Video

First steps to restoring an ancient woodland in Yorkshire

David Ward, a retired telecommunications engineer, bought a four acre ancient woodland in 2014. With limited knowledge and experience, he turned to Woodland Trust’s adviser Robin Ridley.

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Faughan Valley: Creating a resilient woodland

Find out how the Woodland Trust Northern Ireland woodland creation team is working with landowners to create new woods in the Faughan Valley.

00:05:43

Trees woods and wildlife

Honeysuckle

Twining, scented woodland stunner. This trumpet-like flower is a paradise for wildlife, with its sweet, heady fragrance calling to nearby species, particularly on warm summer evenings.

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Restoration techniques at Raincliffe Woods

We're working with Raincliffe Community Woodland Enterprise to restore ancient woodland at Raincliffe Woods, near Scarborough. Site manager Mark Feather addresses some of the common concerns and explains the techniques being used at the site.

00:06:58

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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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Restoring Coed y Galchog: a 25 year plan

Ray Turner, owner of Coed y Galchog near Ruthin, explains how the Woodland Trust is helping with his 25 year plan to restore the wood for future generations to enjoy.

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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.

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Growing partnerships for impact

partnership video page

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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.

Trees woods and wildlife

Wasp beetle

A sheep in wolf’s clothing, the wasp beetle gets by looking much more threatening than it is. Its larvae feed on dry deadwood while adults collect pollen from flowers.

Trees woods and wildlife

Pill woodlouse

Easily found and easily startled, the pill woodlouse is named after its habit of rolling tight into a ball when disturbed. They’re a common sight in woodland, parks and gardens alike.

Trees woods and wildlife

Cockchafer beetle

Cute and clumsy. The charming, but alarmingly large, cockchafer spends late spring sensing for the perfect mate with its fanned antennae. Spot them in woodland clearings or bumping into lit windows in late spring.

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Music legend Nile Rodgers says ‘we are family’ to trees in Northern Ireland

American music legend Nile Rodgers and his We Are Family Foundation are throwing their weight behind woodland and community in Northern Ireland's Faughan Valley.

Trees woods and wildlife

Elm, field

A phoenix from the ashes, the field elm has been able to recover from the decimation of Dutch elm disease thanks to its ability to grow easily. However, it’s still under threat, along with the wildlife that relies on it.

Trees woods and wildlife

Oak, holm

With its evergreen leaves, the holm oak is a bold splash of colour in the winter months. It was first introduced in the 1500s and, though it’s not as adapted as our native oaks, it supports plenty of our wildlife.

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Coedwigoedd a choed Cymru 'dan fygythiad difrifol' yn ol adroddiad newydd 

Mae adroddiad newydd gan y Woodland Trust yn darparu tystiolaeth o ganlyniadau peri-fygythiol niferus i goedwigoedd a choed ledled y DU.

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Woodland Trust Scotland Buys Highland Estate

Woodland Trust Scotland has completed the purchase of the 4,500-acre Couldoran Estate in Wester Ross, a site it plans to transform for the benefit of people and wildlife.

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Glasgow's Argyle Street ash wins UK Tree of the Year 2025

Standing tall on one of Glasgow’s busiest roads, the Argyle Street ash has been named the winner of the Woodland Trust’s annual Tree of the Year competition.

Trees woods and wildlife

Tawny owl

Hooting woodland hunter with silent wings. Without a sound, the tawny owl descends from its lofty perch to snatch unsuspecting rodents from the forest floor below.

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Torriano Primary School tackles climate change with Lauren Child

Watch the London school plant free trees with Charlie and Lola author, Lauren Child, to make a change for the better.

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Creating a community forest garden in London

Free fruit and nut trees are contributing to a fun and educational new garden in Dulwich. It’s managed by Arbor Projects, who work with councils and housing associations to help residents improve and enjoy their green spaces.

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Celebrating 20 years of 'Woods on Your Doorstep'

20 years of "Woods on Your Doorstep". Creating woodlands within walking distance of cities, towns, and villages across Northern Ireland. Find out how these natural spaces have benefitted the community.

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Woodland Creation: nature-based solutions

Find out how the Woodland Trust Northern Ireland woodland creation team is working with landowners to create new woods in the Faughan Valley.

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Fingle Woods volunteers

Find out more about the Fingle Woods volunteers and why they were nominated for an award.

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Hayden Gabriel - volunteer speaker

Find out more about Hayden's volunteering role and why she was nominated for an award.

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Trees woods and wildlife

Elm, wych

Decimated by Dutch elm disease, the sweeping and majestic wych elm is a much rarer sight these days. Its loss goes hand-in-hand with the decline of the elusive white-letter hairstreak butterfly, whose caterpillars rely on elm leaves.

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Trialling plastic-free guards with Kate Humble

We're helping TV presenter Kate Humble transform a section of her farm into a vibrant woodland. To protect the hundreds of newly planted trees from deer browsing, see how Kate's exploring sustainable solutions with eco-friendly, plastic-free tree guards.

00:02:20

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Sibsey Wood volunteers

Find out more about the Sibsey Wood volunteers and why they were nominated for an award.

00:02:07

Trees woods and wildlife

Beech, common

Monumental, majestic, home to rare wildlife. Beech is an enchanting species and known as the queen of British trees. To wander beneath the leafy canopy, its cathedral-like branches spreading upwards, is an awe-inspiring experience.

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Visit the Woodland Trust's bluebell woods in full bloom

The Woodland Trust Northern Ireland wants to welcome visitors to sites throughout the region to enjoy the spectacular springtime sight of a bluebell-carpeted woodland.

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Creating a wood for conservation, community and coppicing

Mark and Liz Lea planted a woodland on their organic Shropshire farm in 2023 with MOREwoods. They hope it will boost biodiversity, benefit their local community and provide wood chip for their biomass boiler.

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The state of Wales’ rainforests

Discover the beauty of our rainforests and why the Alliance for Wales’ Rainforests is asking the Welsh government to do more to protect them.

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BBC Community Life Appeal supports Woodland Trust Northern Ireland

Tune into BBC NI this September to find out from the Woodland Trust how you can play your part in the fight against climate change.

00:04:03

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Woodland Trust seeks major new corporate partner to empower young people through ‘Funding for the Future’

The Woodland Trust, recognised as the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity, is boldly seeking out the perfect business to work in partnership with to support an ambitious new programme of work.

Trees woods and wildlife

Wild service tree

A true springtime stunner, it’s not so long ago that you could find wild-service fruit at a market. These days it’s rare and hard to find but it’s still a favourite with wildlife like the wood pigeon, whose gut softens its seeds for propagation.

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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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Skipinnish Oak crowned UK Tree of the Year 2024

A centuries-old oak nestled in the heart of Lochaber, Scotland, has been dubbed ‘Tree of the Year’ in the Woodland Trust’s prestigious competition.

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Million pound grant to 'roll out rainforest' around Scottish mountain

Woodland Trust Scotland is to receive £1m+ through the Forestry Grant Scheme to expand rare Scottish rainforest around the slopes of a Highland mountain.

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Survival of rare shrill carder bumblebee given hope in Kent

The survival of one of the UK’s rarest bumblebees – the shrill carder bee – has been boosted as conservation techniques see Woodland Trust site given special “champion status” for the species.

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Woodland Trust announces partnership with Assynt Foundation

The Assynt Foundation and Woodland Trust Scotland have entered a 30-year partnership to revitalise Glencanisp and Drumrunie Estates in the North-west highlands.

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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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Official planting figures show urgent need for more action

Read our response to the latest National Statistics on woodland released on 17 June 2021.

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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.

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Dalkeith named heritage tree hotspot as experts record 500 “living legends”

Dalkeith Country Park in Midlothian has been revealed as a heritage tree hotspot after experts recorded 500 ancient, veteran and notable oaks over the last year.

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New population of rare heath fritillary found in Kent

The heath fritillary, one of the UK’s rarest butterflies, has been discovered for the first time at the Woodland Trust’s Victory Wood in Kent.

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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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Tree equity map shows less affluent areas have less tree cover

People in less affluent areas have lower levels of tree cover and a higher risk of health problems from poor air quality, new online tree equity map reveals.

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Survey reveals most Scots unaware Scotland has rainforest

Research indicates most people living in Scotland’s west coast rainforest zone have no idea the threatened habitat is right on their doorstep. But when they find out, the majority are enthusiastic about protecting and expanding it.

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Commercial and conservation sectors condemn Forest Grant Scheme cuts

Enormous cuts to the woodland grant budget will torpedo Scotland’s chances of meeting climate and nature targets.

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Faughan Valley Woodlands officially opens unveiling a haven for nature and people

Small fragmented woodlands along and across the River Faughan have been connected to benefit people, nature and climate in Northern Ireland.

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Woodland Trust opens Mourne Park

A rare ancient woodland wildlife haven has opened in Northern Ireland for the first time in over 500 years, with three new trails to help visitors explore.

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Our statement on new Government ELM announcement on funding for farmers

Our response to Steve Barclay's Oxford Conference announcement regarding Environmental Land Management payments for farmers.

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Scotland’s wildest wild apples gathered for ‘gene bank’ orchard in the Trossachs

A genetic refuge for Scotland’s wildest crab apple trees has been established at Woodland Trust Scotland’s Glen Finglas Estate in the Trossachs.

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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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Over 40% of new road schemes across England impact irreplaceable ancient woods 

With 43% of major new road schemes across England causing huge damage to both ancient woodland and veteran trees, planned changes to the Government’s transport policy don’t go nearly far enough.

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Young people's climate anxiety is soaring due to lack of access to green space

One in three young people in Britain are scared (33%), sad (34%) or pessimistic (34%) about climate change, with 28% feeling “overwhelmed”, according to a YouGov poll.

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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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Highland estate as big as Glasgow to be revitalised in partnership between community, conservation charity and Aviva

Assynt Foundation, Woodland Trust Scotland and Aviva have struck a 30-year deal to revitalise a vast area in the northwest Highlands of Scotland.

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Tree planting progress ‘near glacial' as Government releases new figures

Government tree planting figures published today show that targets to create new woodland in England have been missed again.

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Windrush elders plant commemorative woodland grove

A new woodland grove has been planted in Neath to commemorate 75 years since HMT Empire Windrush docked in England on 22 June 1948.

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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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Giant boost for nature in Yorkshire Dales as charity plans huge native woodland

One of the boldest projects in the English uplands is about to start with the first trees to go in the ground at Snaizeholme in the Yorkshire Dales.

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Team assembles to upskill the west coast to save Scotland’s rainforest

A team of nature conservationists have come together to develop a skill-boosting programme equipping local people to earn a living saving Scotland’s rainforest.

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Woodland Trust welcomes bypass withdrawal

The UK’s largest woodland conservation charity has applauded the scrapping of current plans for a controversial road scheme which could destroy dozens of ancient and veteran trees in Norfolk.

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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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New community woodland taking shape near Billington

Work is well underway on a new community woodland planned for Billington in Lancashire.

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Woodland Trust announces Tony Hall – Lord Hall of Birkenhead as new chair

The Woodland Trust is delighted to announce the appointment of Tony Hall – Lord Hall of Birkenhead as the charity’s new chair. He will take up the role in June 2024.

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One little word makes a huge difference for Scotland’s dwindling ancient woods

Campaigners are celebrating a major victory as new policy bars developments damaging ancient woods and trees.

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One year to go: a final Programme for Government

With a year to go until the next Scottish Parliament election, Scotland's First Minister, John Swinney, has announced that he plans to bring forward his Programme for Government.

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Children's author Michael Morpurgo backs project bringing city children into nature and farming

The Woodland Trust is working with Farms for City Children, a charity founded by Michael and Clare Morpurgo to connect city children with nature and farming.

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GPs urge policymakers to invest in green space to reduce NHS pressure

Policymakers must prioritise the environment to improve the health of the nation and ease pressure on the NHS, say doctors.

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Logging horse and 'Water Horse' team up to revive ancient Highland forest

The newest form of timber transport has teamed up with the oldest, in a bid to restore a spectacular remnant of Caledonian pinewood and Scotland’s rainforest.

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Woodland Trust report: £1 billion to save England’s 'forgotten woods and wildlife'

The Woodland Trust has produced and costed a £1 billion five-year plan to rescue nature in England’s threatened ancient woods.

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Root of the problem: underfunding, underdelivering

This year’s woodland creation figures for Scotland are deeply disappointing. The numbers reflect not just a missed target, but another missed opportunity.

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Drone sows 75,000 native tree seeds to triple rainforest cover in Cornwall and Devon

An ambitious drone tree-seeding trial in the South West could revolutionise the expansion of rainforests.

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Highland landowners team up to revive ecosystem area larger than Edinburgh

Four diverse landowners have formed a unique pact to “reawaken the landscape” across an area of Lochaber bigger than Edinburgh.

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What happened at climate COP29 in Azerbaijan?

The recent climate COP in Azerbaijan spent two weeks discussing rules for carbon markets, emissions trading and climate finance. But what were the outcomes?

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Peatland struggles to recover six years on from devastating wildfires

A new survey on a fire-ravaged site has shed light on the struggle for natural environments to recover from catastrophic events.

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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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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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Woodland Trust chief executive's statement on State of UK Climate Report

Darren Moorcroft, Woodland Trust chief executive, has made a statement in response to the Met Office’s State of UK Climate Report, which the Energy Secretary has labelled a “stark warning” to take action on climate and nature.

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Argyll Peninsula Prepped to Save Scotland's Ancient Rainforest 

Regenerating Craignish Rainforest Habitats and Native Woods Co-operative join forces to revive ancient woodland on Argyll’s Craignish peninsula.

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Vandalism at Young People’s Forest will not derail nature project, says Woodland Trust

Structures damaged by recent vandalism at the Young People's Forest at Mead will cost thousands of pounds to repair.

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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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DAERA's Forests for our Future programme fails to meet planting targets for Northern Ireland

At the programme’s halfway point, less than a quarter of new woodland have been created – well below the level required to meet the target.

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Deer in Scotland: a way forward?

Deer numbers in Scotland have doubled since 1990, posing a growing barrier to woodland creation and restoration.

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Fair and flexible approach could meet tree cover requirement for Welsh farms

Fair funding and a flexible approach can make the 10% minimum tree cover requirement achievable for most farms, says the Woodland Trust in Wales.

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300,000 households given new access to nature, new study of Northern Forest shows

More than 300,000 households have been given access to nature they previously didn’t have, a new Northern Forest study shows.

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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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Groundbreaking scientific research project at Snaizeholme will tackle the impacts of extreme weather

One of the biggest pieces of scientific research ever undertaken in the English uplands will tackle the impacts of extreme weather.

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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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Nature, art and youth vision unite with new mural at Brynau Farm

A once unremarkable concrete wall has been transformed into a stunning work of art thanks to a collaboration between Coed Cadw (the Woodland Trust in Wales) and Swansea College of Art.

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Woodland Trust statement on Whitewebbs Oak felling

We are shocked and devastated by the recent felling of the ancient Whitewebbs Oak in an Enfield park in London. We want to see justice for this nationally significant oak tree. 

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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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Coed Cadw welcomes launch of Wales' Sustainable Farming Scheme

Coed Cadw has expressed cautious optimism at the upcoming launch of the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Farming Scheme, describing it as a necessary first step towards a just transition for the people of Wales.

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Five reasons to celebrate World Rainforest Day

World Rainforest Day is celebrated on 22 June and with good reason. Here are five ways rainforests help us.

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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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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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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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Woodland Trust acquires new land connected to Mourne Park

The Trust has been able to extend Mourne Park, a special site for restoration and conservation in Northern Ireland, with 32 hectares of neighbouring land.

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Woodland Trust buys ancient woodland in Kingdom of Mourne

The Trust has taken ownership of 156 hectares of Northern Ireland's Mourne Park estate with ambitions to restore ancient woodland and open it to the public.

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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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Loch Arkaig osprey chicks bound for Spain as Dad’s catch plummets

Two young ospreys from a nest in Lochaber have been taken into a translocation programme after their father’s plummeting fish catch began to raise concern.

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Gold for young designer’s garden at Tatton

A young designer has won gold at RHS Tatton for creating a unique garden to highlight the dramatic loss of treasured trees outside woods.

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New study reveals the UK’s rarest rainforest beetles are multi-day adventurers

A new study delving into the lives of one of the UK’s rarest beetles shows them to be athletes and adventurers – travelling the scaled–up equivalent of several kilometres a night in search of food and mates.

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Woodland Trust highlights ‘ticking threat’ of uncontrollable wildfires

An increasing threat of wildfires amid rising temperatures and Met Office warnings could have a "devastating" impact, according to the UK's largest woodland conservation charity.

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How can we fund new woodland against a backdrop of cuts?

A 41% cut to anything is a big deal. But when it amounts to £32,000,000, it’s a massive deal. That’s the scale of the cut that the 2024-25 Scottish Budget imposes on woodland grants.

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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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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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A9 central reservation is in a better state than surrounding hills

A central reservation of one of Scotland's busiest roads, the A9, is in a more natural state than the surrounding hills, says report from the Woodland Trust.

Blog

Animal tracking: prints and poo identification for kids

Many animals can be hard to spot in the wild, but they leave plenty of clues behind. Learn how to identify animal tracks, poo and other signs.

Danielle Wesley  •  17 Feb 2020

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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.

Blog

What hatched here? How to identify bird egg shells

Found a fragment of egg in the garden, woods or park? Here's a quick guide to the most common UK bird eggs too help you find out which species it came from.

Helen Keating  •  05 May 2020

Blog

Top 10 green gifts for gardeners

Looking for eco-friendly inspiration for your favourite gardening guru or want to encourage a beginner? From windowsill pots to established veg plots, our green gift guide has got you covered.

Charlie Mellor  •  11 Oct 2024

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10 eco-friendly gifts for under £10

On a budget this Christmas? We’ve handpicked 10 affordable eco-friendly gifts that show you care for your loved ones and the environment too.

Charlie Mellor  •  23 Oct 2024

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Top 10 coastal woods in the UK

Bats, rare butterflies, dinosaur footprints and even the roar of a whirlpool – these coastal woods are just waiting for you to visit.

Charlie Mellor  •  18 Jun 2019

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7 blossom crafts and activities for kids

Discover fun blossom crafts and activities to enjoy with your children this spring.

Danielle Wesley  •  11 Mar 2022

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7 half-term ideas for families

Enjoy wildlife spotting, tree ID and nature crafts on a half-term hike in the woods.

Danielle Wesley  •  02 Feb 2023

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What is pollination?

Learn about pollination and why it is so important for the natural world.

Danielle Wesley  •  08 Apr 2019

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11 rare birds in Britain's woodland

Find out all about 11 rare birds in British woodland, and why they are so elusive.

Charlotte Varela  •  10 Apr 2019

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6 woods in the Domesday Book and other centuries-old UK woods

Ancient woods are centuries old, irreplaceable wildlife homes and carbon-crunchers, packed with fascinating history. Discover some of our amazing ancient woods in the UK, why they’re so special and how you can help protect them.

Charlie Mellor  •  27 Feb 2023

Blog

Easy blackberry recipes

Forage for blackberries to make blackberry crumble, bramble flapjack, summer fruits pudding, and a sweet blackberry sauce.

Danielle Wesley  •  27 Aug 2019

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Rare woodland animals and where to find them

Discover some of the UK's rarest woodland animals and where to spot them in the wild. 

Annabel Kemp  •  21 Sept 2023

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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

Blog

Collecting and removing firewood: is it legal?

Ever wondered whether you can collect firewood from one of our woods? Find out how to source sustainable wood and why we chop down trees in our woods.

Rachel Hoskins  •  22 Jan 2019

Blog

Do worms have eyes? And other worm facts

They're unassuming, but worms make the world go round. Find out if they have eyes, mouths and brains. Plus discover what they eat and how they move with our fascinating worm facts.

Rachel Hoskins  •  25 Apr 2019

Blog

What do frogs eat? And more frog facts

Frogs are carnivorous amphibians; UK species feed on a range of insects. Find out more about what they eat and learn how to build a frog pond.

Rachel Hoskins  •  18 Mar 2019

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British caterpillars: how to identify 10 common species

Learn how to identify 10 common British caterpillars, find out what they eat and when to see them.

Charlotte Varela  •  11 Aug 2023

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13 Halloween nature crafts and activities for kids

Get set for spooky season with leaf ghosts, conker pumpkins, twig wands and a thrilling Halloween scavenger hunt!

Danielle Wesley  •  04 Oct 2023

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Autumn outdoor activities for kids

Take a look at our autumn activities for kids and families to enjoy outside in the crisp autumn air. 

Hannah Vickers  •  01 Oct 2020

Blog

How to build a bee hotel

Help bees by building them a bee hotel to lay their eggs. Read our step-by-step guide.

Hannah Vickers  •  17 Apr 2020

Blog

What do birds eat in the wild?

From garden birds to waterfowl and summer migrants, find out what birds eat in the wild and how their diet can change with the seasons.

Hannah Vickers  •  08 Apr 2019

Blog

What can rings and black lines in tree trunks tell us?

We take a fascinating look at tree anatomy and explore the appearance of tree rings and other black lines.

Julia Lock  •  29 Dec 2021

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What are the effects of global warming in the UK? And how can we make a difference?

Global warming is affecting the UK. Find out the changes we are already seeing, the changes to come, and how we can fight back.

Nick Atkinson  •  24 Apr 2019

Blog

11 waterfall walks to visit in our woods

From gently tumbling streams to powerful cascades, waterfalls are mesmerising. Check out the best waterfall walks in and around our woods across the UK.

Charlie Mellor  •  15 Jan 2021

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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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Which birds mate for life? And birds' mating rituals

Find out which birds mate for life and why they do it, plus discover some of the mating rituals they use to attract a long-term partner.

Rachel Hoskins  •  14 Feb 2020

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Hawthorn and blackthorn: what’s the difference?

Hawthorn and blackthorn are two of the most easily confused species, so here’s a closer look at their differences to help you tell them apart.

Charlie Mellor  •  09 Apr 2019

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Baby bird identification: UK garden birds

Learn to identify garden bird youngsters with our guide to some of the most commonly encountered little'uns.

Amy Lewis  •  15 May 2020

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Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw - Sheffield's tree story

At Sheffield's Endcliffe Park, discover how nature and the city have shaped each other over the centuries and why local people are so passionate about trees.

Adam Shaw  •  22 Feb 2024

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UK spider identification: 10 common species

Don't wait until spider season to appreciate these misunderstood creatures. Take a look at our guide to some of the most common spiders in the UK and learn how to identify them.

Charlotte Varela  •  30 Oct 2024

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Do conkers keep spiders away? And other conker facts and uses

Do conkers keep spiders away? Do they deter moths? Can you eat conkers? Check out our top six facts and debunked myths.

Rachel Hoskins  •  30 Aug 2019

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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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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Animal migration: why do animals migrate?

Discover why birds and other animals migrate and learn how they complete this astonishing feat without getting lost.

Danielle Wesley  •  17 Feb 2020

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Tree bark crafts: bark rubbings and more

Try our fun and simple tree bark arts and crafts. From bark rubbing to leaf boats, there’s something for all ages.

Danielle Wesley  •  21 Nov 2019

Blog

How to build a bug hotel

Help insects and other minibeasts by building a bug hotel in your garden or outside space. You’ll need some old plant pots, sticks and pine cones.

Danielle Wesley  •  05 Sept 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Greater butterfly-orchid

Tall and glowing, the greater butterfly-orchid sways over unimproved grasslands and open woods. Though not so sweet-smelling as its lesser relative, keep a nose out for it in the early evening when it is at its most pungent.

Blog

Bird song identification: UK garden birds 

Whether you're looking to learn a new skill or simply find out who's taking centre stage, our simple guide will introduce you to the top garden regulars.

Amy Lewis  •  01 May 2020

Blog

Why do nettles sting? And do dock leaves really help?

Stinging nettles can be a hazard on summer walks. Learn why these plants inflict their itchy stings and whether dock leaves really do help.

Laura Cottam  •  15 May 2019

Blog

10 ways to use fallen autumn leaves

Fallen leaves can be put to great use in the garden, or turned into beautiful decorations as autumnal craft projects. Here are our top 10 things to do with autumn leaves.

Charlie Mellor  •  03 Nov 2022

Blog

Where to see wild daffodils in the UK

Did you know that the UK is home to a native, wild species of daffodil? Forget the gaudy imposters lining roadsides and parks this spring - head to the woods for an encounter with the real thing.

Amy Lewis  •  22 Feb 2021

Blog

How to attract bullfinches to your garden

Have you always wanted to see a bullfinch in your garden? Learn how to increase your chances of attracting these beautiful but shy birds.

James Martin  •  18 Feb 2020

Blog

Shieldbug identification: 10 common UK shieldbugs

There are a number of shieldbug species in the UK, characterised by their flat, often triangular bodies and distinctive, shield-like shapes on their backs. Learn to tell which is which with our quick and easy guide to some of Britain's most familiar types.

Amy Lewis  •  14 May 2021

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

Blog

Foraging in February: mushrooms, nettles and early flowers

Even in February, green shoots and early spring flowers are starting to appear. And they’re growing quickly. Here are some spring plants and winter fungi to look out for.

Helen Keating  •  22 Feb 2018

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

Blog

When do frogs spawn? And how to spot them

Find out when frogs spawn and the best time to spot these fascinating jellified clumps in ponds near you.

Karen Hornigold  •  18 Apr 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Sand martin

These social summer visitors can be seen flitting from the river to their signature tunnel nests from March to October.

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

Blog

6 migrant birds to spot in the UK this winter

Not all birds head south for the winter. Some head straight for our shores to escape even colder conditions back home. Here are some of the winter birds you'll only find in the UK in winter.

Charlotte Varela  •  21 Jan 2025

Blog

UK moth identification and facts: 12 common species for beginners

There are more than 870 species of large moth in the UK, many of which can be tricky for beginners to tell apart. Get to know some of the UK's most familiar and easily-identified species with our quick guide.

Amy Lewis  •  02 Jun 2021

Blog

Giant hogweed: the facts

How common is giant hogweed in the UK and is it really that dangerous? We've distilled the facts to give you the low-down on giant hogweed.

Helen Keating  •  29 Jun 2022

Blog

House mouse or field mouse? Easy guide to types of UK mice, voles, rats and shrews

Are you curious about what mouse or vole you saw in your garden or out on a walk? Or did your cat bring one in and you wondered what it was? Here's a quick guide to the more common mice, voles, rats and shrews of the UK.

Helen Keating  •  28 Mar 2022

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

Blog

Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw and Tristan Gooley

In our latest episode, natural navigator Tristan Gooley teaches us how clues and signs in nature can tell us about the land, water and animals around us.

Adam Shaw  •  21 Apr 2023

Blog

How to make a fairy door and more magical ideas

Learn how to make a fairy door with your kids, plus more enchanting forest ideas such as magic wands, woodland potions and fairy tea parties.

Danielle Wesley  •  22 Apr 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Sweet violet

Romantic and showy, sweet violet grows on woodland edges, its flowers providing nectar for butterflies in early spring.

Partnerships

E.ON Next

E.ON Next is donating a portion of its fixed tariffs to help us breathe new life into ancient woodlands.

Blog

Types of moss in the UK: what they are and where to find them

Moss is marvellous! Find out why and see some common species to spot.

Kate Lewthwaite  •  30 Jul 2018

Blog

9 carnivorous plants to spot in the UK

Did you know there are carnivorous plants in the UK? Take a look at some of the predatory and parasitic plants you could spot in our woods and wetlands.

Charlotte Varela  •  28 Jun 2023

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

Blog

When do bluebells flower?

Mark your calendars! Find out when bluebells flower, plus more bluebell facts including where to see them, what they smell like and how they're protected.

Lorienne Whittle  •  21 Mar 2022

Blog

Red admiral butterfly: identification and recording

Learn how to identify red admiral butterflies, their caterpillars and pupae with our handy guide, and record your sightings with Nature's Calendar.

Amy Lewis  •  24 Apr 2020

Blog

Wildflowers for bees: how to attract bees to your garden

Wild bees and other pollinators are in decline. But there are things you can do in your garden to help reverse this trend including increasing food and habitat. Includes our top nine bee-friendly wildflowers to plant in your garden.

Helen Keating  •  18 Mar 2019

Blog

Chiffchaff or willow warbler? How to tell the difference

Chiffchaffs and willow warblers migrate to our shores every spring. Can you tell them apart? Discover the differences in appearance, call and habitat.

Alex Marshall  •  03 Feb 2025

Blog

How to make an easy elderflower cordial without citric acid

This elderflower cordial recipe is very easy to make. It's the perfect way to capture the sweet, summery scent of the familiar hedgerow tree that is in full bloom now.

Helen Keating  •  07 Jun 2021

Blog

How to attract robins to your garden

Learn how to make your garden a home for Britain's favourite bird.

James Martin  •  27 Jan 2020

Blog

Bird of prey calls and identification

Learn how to identify the UK's birds of prey with our quick guide to their calls, key features and likely hangouts. 

Amy Lewis  •  10 Sept 2021

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

Blog

8 enchanting rainforests to explore in the UK

UK rainforests are even rarer than their tropical counterparts, and just as beautiful. Brimming with wildlife, entwined with local history and overflowing with magic, here are eight of the best to explore.

Charlotte Varela  •  12 Mar 2025

Blog

Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw - Martin Hügi, the 'Tree Pilgrim'

Martin Hügi, the 'Tree Pilgrim', is walking from Land's End to John O'Groats to visit amazing ancient trees. We meet him on day 79 to hear his experience so far.

Adam Shaw  •  29 Sept 2023

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

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

Blog

12 rare wild flowers in the UK's woods

Woodlands are home to some of the UK's rarest wild flowers. From parasitic plants to alluring orchids, discover 12 rare woodland flowers and what makes them so uncommon.

Charlotte Varela  •  13 May 2025

Blog

Common UK butterfly identification and facts

Identify some of the UK's most common butterflies, find out where to look for them, and learn more about their incredible lives.

Amy Lewis  •  22 Jul 2019

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

Blog

8 steps to achieving long-term mindfulness with woods and trees

Explore some woodland activities that you can take part in to gain positive health benefits.

Julia Lock  •  22 Mar 2022

Blog

Signs of summer in nature

Discover the signs of the changing seasons – look for trees in full leaf, summer flowers blooming, butterflies, bats, grasshoppers and more.

Danielle Wesley  •  01 Jun 2019

Blog

11 autumn leaf crafts - simple ideas and activities for kids

Get creative with the kids this autumn. Make your own leaf animal pictures, leaf rubbings, leaf prints and superhero leaf masks.

Danielle Wesley  •  09 Oct 2020

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

Blog

When to cut grass after winter

Are you unsure when to start cutting your lawn again after winter? Learn which factors affect your lawn, when to cut it and how this varies across the UK.

Lorienne Whittle  •  01 Feb 2022

Blog

The best woodland walks in London

You don't have to leave London to enjoy the sights and sounds of a woodland walk. Here is our pick of the best places for a stroll in the city.

James Martin  •  28 Jan 2019

Blog

Foraging in January: winter fruits and nuts

You can still forage for tasty treats when it’s cold outside and the leaves have fallen. Here's our list of fruits and nuts to look out for in winter.

Helen Keating  •  16 Jan 2018

Blog

10 easy butterfly crafts for kids

Discover 10 colourful butterfly crafts for kids, from simple symmetry paintings to fun mosaic art.

Danielle Wesley  •  03 Jul 2023

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

Blog

9 rare and beautiful wild UK orchids

Orchids are some of the most beautiful and unique wild plants you'll see in the UK. They are rare but well worth finding if you are up for the challenge.

Laura Cottam  •  29 May 2019

Blog

UK hawk-moth identification and facts

Hawk-moths are some of the largest and most recognisable moths in the UK. Learn to tell which is which with our visual guide to 10 of the most commonly encountered UK species.

Amy Lewis  •  21 Jun 2021

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

Blog

Pond dipping: how to pond dip

Learn how to safely pond dip with children, find out the equipment you’ll need and learn how to make a net.

Danielle Wesley  •  08 Aug 2019

Blog

Animal tracks: snow print identification

A fresh coat of snow reveals the footprints of the secretive animals that call our woodland home. Learn how to identify some of the tracks you're likely to see in your local wood.

Charlie Mellor  •  17 Jan 2022

Blog

Ideas for an outdoor birthday party for kids

Plan an outdoor party for kids with our ideas for fun woodland games and activities, nature-themed party bags and animal cakes.

Danielle Wesley  •  15 May 2019

Blog

Are caterpillars insects? And other caterpillar facts

Curious about caterpillars? Find out if they’re insects, what they eat and learn about their fascinating life cycle.

Danielle Wesley  •  15 May 2019

Blog

What do dragonflies eat? And other dragonfly facts

Discover incredible dragonfly facts including what they eat, how long they live, how fast they fly and how they’re different to damselflies.

Danielle Wesley  •  29 May 2019

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

Blog

11 types of day-flying moth in the UK: an identification guide

The UK is home to a number of moths that are active during the day, many of which rival butterflies for colour and beauty. Which species might you encounter on a summer's walk? 

Amy Lewis  •  23 Apr 2021

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

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

Trees woods and wildlife

Weasel

Relentless and always hungry. What they lack in size, weasels make up for in appetite, eating a third of their own body weight daily. From birds to bank voles, the small creatures of the forest floor must be ever wary of this energetic hunter.

Blog

Where does mistletoe grow?

Mistletoe is a familiar Christmas staple, associated with folklore and midwinter tradition. But where does it grow and how can you find it in the wild?

Hanako Shimada  •  23 Dec 2024

Blog

Bird song identification: UK warblers

Every spring, trees and shrubs across the land burst into a riot of song from a famously musical group of birds - the warblers. Here we get to grips with their songs and how to tell them apart by sound alone.

Amy Lewis  •  11 Apr 2022

Blog

Hawk-moth caterpillar identification: eight UK species

Hawk-moth caterpillars have one thing in common: they're pretty impressive. Usually large, distinctively marked and with a characteristic horn at the tail end, they're a good group to get to grips with when learning who's who.

Amy Lewis  •  21 Jul 2021

Blog

Types of mushroom in the UK: common identification guide

Mushrooms (or toadstools) is a term given to the fleshy, spore-bearing fruiting bodies that certain fungi produce. Here are nine common mushrooms that you may come across.

Helen Keating  •  31 Aug 2017

Blog

Which birds migrate? Who you can spot this summer

Swallows, swifts and martins aren’t our only summer migrants – keep your eyes peeled for these species and record your sightings through Nature’s Calendar.

Charlotte Varela  •  12 May 2018

Blog

Winter picnics: hot food ideas and recipes

Keep warm on a winter picnic with our recipes and food ideas, including mulled apple juice, hot dogs, chilli pitta pockets and jacket potatoes.

Danielle Wesley  •  05 Jan 2023

Blog

Stick crafts and activities for kids

Sticks have endless possibilities! From Poohsticks to twig towers and journey sticks to stick men, we've got plenty of ideas for your family to try on your next woodland walk.

Danielle Wesley  •  04 Nov 2019

Blog

How to build a den: outdoor activity for kids

Get the whole family outdoors with our simple den-building guide. Plus, discover how to build a mini den or make an indoor den on rainy days.

Danielle Wesley  •  22 Oct 2019

Blog

Rainy day activities for kids: mud kitchens and pies

Don’t get stuck indoors when the weather’s wet. Try our rainy outdoor activities including mud kitchens, mud pies, leaf boats and puddle jumping.

Danielle Wesley  •  01 Apr 2019

Blog

How to forage wild garlic and make wild garlic pesto

What's that smell? It's wild garlic season! Find out how to make the best of it with our foraging guide and recipes.

Laura Cottam  •  26 Apr 2019

Blog

What is the difference between a bug and a beetle?

The words 'bug' and 'beetle' are often used interchangeably, but there’s actually a big difference between bugs and beetles. Learn how to tell them apart.

Charlotte Varela  •  06 Jun 2023

Blog

Hairy caterpillar identification: 16 common UK species

Spotted a furry caterpillar undulating across the path in front of you or munching leaves in your garden? Learn to tell your tussocks from your tigers with our quick guide to some common UK species.

Amy Lewis  •  10 Jun 2021

Blog

How long do spiders live? And other spider facts

Discover more about spiders like how long they live, how many eyes they have, how big UK species can grow and more.

Rachel Hoskins  •  09 Sept 2019

Blog

What’s the difference between nuts and seeds?

When it comes to nuts and seeds, it’s easy to get confused by name, size and other factors. Here’s our guide to work out which is which, along with some handy examples.

Charlie Mellor  •  29 Aug 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Hobby

A fast-flying falcon with rusty-red trousers. When not catching their prey in mid-air, hobbies rely on trees in which to raise their young.

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

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

Blog

Christmas nature quiz

Test your knowledge of the plants and animals connected with our festive traditions.

Charlie Mellor  •  11 Dec 2024

Blog

Wander through history: fascinating ruins and relics in 10 UK woods

Walk back in time and discover heritage sites and historical ruins in some of the UK’s most enthralling woodlands, from ramparts and barrows to abandoned buildings and bomb shelters.

Chris Britt-Searle  •  01 Mar 2024

Blog

Wildflower quiz: name these 10 common wildflowers

Can you name these ten common British wildflowers? Test your wildflower knowledge with our quiz.

Helen Keating  •  11 Apr 2019

Blog

13 hardy plants for your garden

Our pick of hardy plants and trees perfect for any outdoor space. From pretty annual flowers to hard-working, long-lasting evergreens, they're all hardy to at least -15C.

Charlie Mellor  •  07 Mar 2024

Blog

Life cycle of a plant: seeds, shoots and roots

Plant lives have a beginning and end just like ours. Here's a roundup of the different stages plants go through, from a new seed to eventual death.

Sally Bavin  •  02 Mar 2021

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

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.

Blog

9 of the UKs rarest animals

Much of our beloved wildlife is in decline. Find out about nine of the rarest species in the UK right now, and what we are doing to help save these precious creatures.

Hannah Vickers  •  15 Apr 2019

Blog

7 reasons to feel optimistic about February

The darkest days of winter are now behind us and nature is quietly waking up. Here are seven reasons to smile and wave winter woes goodbye.

Helen Keating  •  01 Feb 2024

Blog

How to tell male and female ospreys apart

How do you tell male and female ospreys apart? And how can you tell the difference between our resident Loch Arkaig pair, Louis and Dorcha, and other local birds?

George Anderson  •  05 Apr 2023

Blog

How to attract butterflies to your garden

Learn how to encourage butterflies into your garden with butterfly-friendly plants, butterfly feeders and more.

Danielle Wesley  •  13 Mar 2020

Blog

How to make bramble whisky: recipe for blackberry liqueur

Read our simple and easy recipe for this delicious foraged blackberry liqueur, or bramble whisky. You'll love this homemade tipple, it's sure to impress!

George Anderson  •  12 Aug 2019

Blog

11 animals that live in the UK's rainforest 

Discover the weird and wonderful animals living in our very own rainforests.

Annabel Kemp  •  19 Jun 2025

Blog

Bracket fungi identification: 10 common UK species for beginners

Bracket fungi, also known as shelf or polypore fungi, grow on both dead and living trees. Here we list some of the UK's more common and easily distinguished types to get to grips with.

Amy Lewis  •  21 Oct 2021

Blog

7 galls to spot this year

Have you spotted something unusual growing on a tree recently? It looks like it might be a bumper year for galls, so here are 7 you might see this summer.

Emilie Bonnevay  •  31 Jul 2018

Blog

Summer holidays: outdoor activities for kids

Discover fun things to do at home and on days out with our outdoor activity guide for the summer holidays. Spot wildlife, try yoga, compete in the forest Olympics and much more.

Danielle Wesley  •  21 Jul 2022

Blog

Broadleaf spring issue: a burst of new life

After a soggy start to spring, the world is at last alive with birdsong, bright yellow daffodils and the first flurry of puff-white blossom. Bring on the bluebells!

Elisabeth Crump  •  11 Mar 2024

Blog

Tree seed identification: seven common UK tree seeds

If someone showed you a seed from a common UK tree, could you tell which tree it was from? Find out more about seven common UK tree seeds.

Charlotte Varela  •  30 Sept 2023

Blog

British newts: an identification guide

Learn to tell the difference between the UK's three newt species with our quick and easy identification guide.

Amy Lewis  •  19 Feb 2020

Blog

9 fun ideas for family winter walks

Head out into the fresh air and get inspired with our ideas for winter woodland walks - enjoy spotting wildlife, scavenger hunts, winter picnics and more.

Danielle Wesley  •  14 Dec 2020

Blog

Broadleaf autumn issue: it packs a crunch!

The latest Broadleaf is full of surprises, as we travel from the busy streets of Belfast to the remote foothills of Ben Nevis in search of inspiring stories about trees.

Vincent Crump  •  22 Sept 2025

Blog

Broadleaf summer issue: here comes the sun

Summer is here and the woodlands are breezy, bright and bursting with colour. In this issue of Broadleaf, we tend veteran trees in the Midlands, hunt for pine martens in Scotland and unfurl the extraordinary tale of the familiar foxglove.

Elisabeth Crump  •  10 Jun 2025

Blog

What is the difference between a frog and a toad?

Find out the difference between our two favourite amphibians, the frog and the toad.

Charlotte Varela  •  23 Feb 2024

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

Blog

Top 10 woods to enjoy autumn colour

Take a look at our top 10 woods to visit for autumn colour, with sites in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. 

Hannah Vickers  •  10 Nov 2021

Blog

Why do leaves change colour and fall off in autumn?

Autumn is the most spectacular season thanks to our deciduous trees. But why is autumn colour better some years than others? Find out why.

Helen Keating  •  02 Oct 2020

Blog

Best woods near 10 UK cities

Here's our pick of great woods in and around the UK's busiest cities for sanctuary seekers, wildlife watchers, fitness fans and history hounds alike.

Charlie Mellor  •  04 Nov 2021

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

Blog

Why do hares box? And other hare facts

Find out why brown hares can be seen boxing in fields during the month of March, earning them their 'mad March' name, along with other top hare facts.

Helen Keating  •  08 Mar 2023

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

Blog

Can you eat crab apples? Three favourite crab apple recipes

With their terrifically tart and tangy flavour, crab apples are a favourite foraged food.

Helen Keating  •  24 Oct 2018

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

Blog

Why are plants important? 7 reasons why we need them

Plants are essential for people, wildlife and the environment. Explore how they provide for pollinators, boost mental health, fight climate change and more.

Chris Britt-Searle  •  28 Jun 2024

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

Blog

Is ivy poisonous?

Discover whether ivy is poisonous and learn more about where it grows, how to take care of it in your garden and why it’s a great plant for wildlife.

Kate Lewthwaite  •  17 Aug 2021

Blog

Seed dispersal: 5 ways trees spread their seeds

Trees have found several ingenious ways to ensure their seeds are spread far and wide. Some use wind or water, some use explosive force, and some hitch a ride on passing animals. We look at each of these clever methods.

Amy Lewis  •  23 Aug 2019

Blog

What do deer eat? What are antlers made of? And more deer facts

From the dainty muntjac to the mighty red stag, the UK is home to six species of wild deer. Learn more about these fascinating creatures.

James Martin  •  03 May 2019

Blog

Forest animals: 9 animals adapted to forest life

From scampering squirrels to beautiful butterflies, discover how our woodland species are perfectly adapted to a life among the trees.

Charlotte Varela  •  09 May 2019

Blog

Stoat or weasel? How to tell the difference

Did you see a stoat on your last woodland walk? Or perhaps it was a weasel? Our guide will help you to tell these pint-sized predators apart. We also take a look at some of the other related species found here in the UK.

James Martin  •  01 Feb 2019

Blog

Grass snake or adder? How to tell the difference between UK reptiles

Discover more about our common native reptiles and where you can find them with this snakes and lizards guide.

Karen Hornigold  •  01 Feb 2018

Blog

Hedgehog poo & tracks: identify signs of hedgehogs

Is a hedgehog visiting your garden? Learn how to identify the signs these prickly characters leave behind.

James Martin  •  16 Mar 2020

Blog

What do blackbirds eat? And how to feed them

Ever wondered what blackbirds eat? Learn about their diet and how you can attract these delightful birds to your garden.

James Martin  •  28 Jun 2019

Blog

Outdoor learning at forest school

Forest school is lots of fun, and besides the educational value, contributes to children’s personal, social and emotional development.

Frances Harris  •  06 Feb 2018

Blog

What is growing on my tree? Black spots, galls, mildew and algae

Trees can host a range of spots, patches, powders, lumps and bumps! Here’s our quick guide to some of the more common funguses, growths and colour changes.

Emilie Bonnevay  •  27 Jun 2019

Blog

The best elderberry recipes

Make the most of dark, fragrant elderberries while they’re in season. Try our favourite elderberry recipes.

Helen Keating  •  28 Sept 2022

Blog

9 outdoor Easter activities for families

Get outdoors in the Easter holidays and enjoy our fun nature activities for kids - try nest building, go on a scavenger hunt and nibble on an Easter-themed picnic!

Danielle Wesley  •  04 Apr 2022

Blog

Broadleaf spring issue: a fresh new dawn

Spring has sprung and the world is waking up. In this issue of Broadleaf, we celebrate the new season, explore natural regeneration, and hear from Pam Ayres and Liz Bonnin.

Elisabeth Crump  •  11 Mar 2025

Blog

Why does sap rise in spring?

Pruning deciduous trees should be avoided during spring because the sap is rising – but what does this actually mean?

Charlotte Varela  •  20 May 2024

Blog

Types of bee in the UK: how to tell the difference

From fluffy bumblebees to pint-sized mining bees, we take a look at the key characteristics of some of our most common species.

Charlotte Varela  •  31 Jul 2023

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

Blog

What is the difference between a newt and a lizard?

Found a small, brown, cold-blooded animal and not sure what it might be? You're not alone! Our guide looks at the telltale signs for separating your newts from your lizards.

Amy Lewis  •  25 Mar 2022

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What do caterpillars eat?

Ever wondered what caterpillars eat? Find out what five of the most common caterpillar food plants are, and which species eat them.

Charlotte Varela  •  01 Jul 2019

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Life cycle of a frog: how do amphibians reproduce?

This time of year is perfect for spotting amphibians on their way to mate. Find out how they attract mates, reproduce and develop.

Rachel Hoskins  •  09 Apr 2019

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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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Foraging in November and December: edible wild plants

Don't be put off by short days and cold, damp weather as winter arrives. There are still wild foraging treats to brighten your days. Here are some favourites.

Rory Morrow  •  26 Nov 2024

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11 must-know facts about woods and forests in the UK

Woods and forests are mysterious, beautiful and fascinating places. Here are 11 amazing must-know facts about our woods and forests in the UK.

Chris Britt-Searle  •  02 May 2024

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Animal mating rituals: 12 eye-opening breeding habits

Discover the extraordinary mating behaviours of 12 wild animals, including hares, stag beetles, newts and snakes!

Danielle Wesley  •  12 Feb 2024

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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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Early spring flowers quiz: 12 flowering plants and shrubs

Want to identify blooms spotted on a refreshing woodland walk or bring some early colour to your garden? Take our quiz to discover some of the most common early flowerers.

Charlie Mellor  •  11 Feb 2021

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What do owls eat? And other owl facts

Find out all about what our feathered friends the owls eat, along with other interesting owl facts.

The Woodland Trust  •  18 Jan 2019

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Do bats hibernate in winter? And more bat facts

What do British bats do when winter is coming? Find out more about six UK bat species and what you can do to help them.

Joe Bates  •  03 Dec 2018

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What do moths eat? Feeding, life cycle and other facts

Explore how some of the 2,500 species of UK moth develop and what they eat. 

Julia Lock  •  09 May 2022

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5 homemade advent calendars: how to make DIY advent calendars

With a range of shapes and sizes to choose from, these homemade advent calendars are the perfect way to get into the festive spirit.  

Annabel Kemp  •  07 Nov 2024

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Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw - Frodsham Woods, Cheshire

Join us for a planting day at Frodsham Woods where a former golf course is transforming into a space for people to enjoy, to fight climate change and help wildlife thrive.

Adam Shaw  •  28 Mar 2024

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What is a mast year? How and why it happens

Discover what a mast year is, what it means for trees and wildlife and what the data tells us about autumn 2025.

Alex Marshall  •  07 Oct 2025

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7 woods with surprising stories

From poetry and paintings to books, films and TV, check out these seven woods with surprising connections to the UK’s rich history and culture.

Chris Britt-Searle  •  05 Apr 2024

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Osprey migration: facts and map

After breeding season winds up at Loch Arkaig Pine Forest, our osprey family flies south for winter. But why do ospreys take this long, dangerous trip between two homes? Here’s everything you need to know about osprey migration.

George Anderson  •  30 Aug 2023

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Where do bees go in winter?

Ever wondered where bees go in winter? Find out where different species of bee go when the weather gets cold, and when to spot them emerging.

Charlotte Varela  •  18 Nov 2022

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Why do spiders make webs, and other spider web facts

Spider webs are incredible feats of engineering, but why do spiders make webs in the first place? And how do they do it?

Charlotte Varela  •  05 Sept 2022

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What is a Root Protection Area and what does it mean?

Healthy and adequate rooting space is essential for trees to thrive. How does a root protection area help, how is it calculated and who needs to use it?

Emma Gilmartin  •  06 Apr 2021

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Common UK ladybird identification and facts

There are 26 types of ladybird in the UK, many of which can be spotted in gardens and woodland. Learn to tell who's who with our quick and easy guide to the some of the most commonly encountered species.

Amy Lewis  •  31 Mar 2021

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What is a seed bank, how does it work and why is it important?

Discover the vital work of seed banks, including facts and figures on why we store so many seeds, how long for and how they might be used in the future.  

Rebecca Gosling  •  02 Dec 2020

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Nature scavenger hunts for kids

Discover ideas for nature-based scavenger hunts and add some fun to your family walks in the woods.

Danielle Wesley  •  17 Jan 2020

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First signs of autumn

Discover when autumn starts and the signs of the season – look for leaves changing colour, autumn fruits and seeds, migrating birds, ivy flowering and incredible fungi.

Danielle Wesley  •  31 Aug 2019

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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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What is a sustainable forest?

Sustainable management is key if woodland is to meet the needs of both wildlife and people. Learn exactly what this means and why it's so important.

Karen Hornigold  •  27 Jul 2018

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Farm diversification: ideas, grants and examples

In these days of pressurised farm incomes, trees and woods may offer a number of ways to help diversify farm income streams and bring cost savings too.

John Tucker  •  23 Jan 2018

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Top 10 eco-friendly Christmas gift wrapping ideas

Make Christmas more sustainable with our 10 eco-friendly gift wrapping ideas.

Charlotte Varela  •  02 Oct 2023

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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30 baby names inspired by trees and woods

Looking for a tree-themed baby name to inspire a love for nature? Discover our favourite tree names for girls and boys, plus gender-neutral options.

Danielle Wesley  •  09 Apr 2024

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Create a cosy winter wonderland: 7 ideas for sustainable and foraged home decor

Discover how to transform your home into a magical winter wonderland. Forage responsibly and intertwine nature and the wild with the warmth of your home. 

Helen Keating  •  30 Nov 2023

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7 homemade gift ideas for Christmas

Take a look at our ideas for homemade Christmas gifts that are thoughtful, affordable and easy-to-make. 

Charlie Mellor  •  12 Oct 2023

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Why are bees important? And how you can help them

Bees are important for wildlife, for woods and trees, and even for our own lives. Find out why, discover why bees are in trouble and learn how you can help them.

Charlotte Varela  •  26 Apr 2023

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Foraging for natural Christmas decorations

Transform your home into a woodland wonderland this Christmas with our easy ideas for festive, foraged home decor. 

Helen Keating  •  05 Dec 2022

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British dragonflies: larvae, wings and lifecycle 

Charismatic and brightly coloured dragonflies capture our imaginations every summer. Learn more about this iconic insect and which ones you can spot near woodland.

Joe Bates  •  25 Jul 2018

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2025's winning projects

Meet the six young finalists whose brilliant projects won our Igniting Innovation conservation challenge.

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Insect identification: common UK insects

There are a staggering 27,000 types of insect in the UK. Let's take a look at some of our most common insect groups and how you can identify them.

Charlotte Varela  •  09 Oct 2023

Plant trees

Woodland Carbon

Get paid for planting new woodland for areas of over 5 hectares with our Woodland Carbon scheme. Your new woodland will be assessed for its carbon-locking potential and you'll be paid in Woodland Carbon Units with associated costs covered, too.

Trees woods and wildlife

Morel

Highly prized and easily recognised, the morel is a favourite edible mushroom. It has a strong, nutty flavour and a pleasant, earthy smell and grows in a variety of habitats, including well-drained woodland. But beware, it is poisonous when raw.

Trees woods and wildlife

Little owl

Small and stern, the little owl was first introduced to the UK in the 1800s. Look out for them in trees overlooking grassland from where they swoop to catch small prey with their sharp talons.

Visiting woods

Best bluebell woods

See a stunning sea of blue this spring. Discover our best woods for bluebells.

Trees woods and wildlife

Hemlock, western

Dense and graceful, the western hemlock is a handsome tree with drooping branches of soft needles. Introduced in the 1800s, the tree casts such heavy shade that not much can live beneath it.

Trees woods and wildlife

Green woodpecker

A colourful character with a taste for ants. The laughing cry of the green woodpecker is one of the defining sounds of British woodland.

Trees woods and wildlife

Green hairstreak

The only green butterfly in the UK, this small but spectacular species can be seen fluttering through woodland clearings during the spring months.

Trees woods and wildlife

Siskin

Stunning seed eaters with striking plumage. Bright yellow siskins rely on trees such as alder and birch for food.

Trees woods and wildlife

Devil’s coach horse beetle

Jet-black with an even darker reputation. The devil’s coach horse has long been associated with sinister forces. In reality, it is only other invertebrates that have cause to fear this voracious predator.

Trees woods and wildlife

Pine, Scots

Towering in the glen, the Scots pine is a truly stunning tree. It is one of only three native conifers, and our only native pine. It’s the perfect home for iconic Scottish wildlife, such as the red squirrel, capercaillie, Scottish crossbill and the Scottish wildcat.

Trees woods and wildlife

Deathcap

Silent assassin and killer of kings. The deathcap has been used as a murder weapon for millennia.

Trees woods and wildlife

European larch

A spring-time show-off, European larch is a conifer full of surprises. Introduced over 400 years ago, it’s a favourite with squirrels, birds and moths alike.

Trees woods and wildlife

Leisler's bat

Tree-dwellers with a lion-like appearance, these fast-flying bats are scarce throughout Britain but common in Ireland.

Trees woods and wildlife

Garden spider

A patient predator and web-spinning extraordinaire. Garden spiders are a common sight across the UK, devouring the flying insects that fall victim to their webs.

Trees woods and wildlife

Pine marten reintroduction: how we're helping and where to find them

Once persecuted to extinction, find out how we're helping pine martens make a welcome return to the UK's woods.

Trees woods and wildlife

Collared earthstar

The star of the show in broadleaf woodland, this charming fungus would look at home at the bottom of the sea..

Trees woods and wildlife

Cedar

Stately, aromatic, gigantic. Find out more about one of the most majestic of all planted trees.

Trees woods and wildlife

Whitethroat

A summer visitor with a scratchy song. Around one million of these birds head to the UK each year to breed.

Trees woods and wildlife

Buzzing spider

Keep a keen ear out for this leaf-lover with real rhythm. Look for the buzzing spider on leaves and stems of deciduous trees and shrubs in woods and parks.

Trees woods and wildlife

Musk beetle

Aromatic and iridescent. Spot this musk-scented longhorn beetle glimmering on the trunks of trees.

Protecting trees and woods

How to object to a planning application

If you are opposing a development threat to a wood or tree, you will need to make an objection in writing to the local planning authority.

Trees woods and wildlife

Lesser horseshoe bat

Plum-sized and pink-faced, the lesser horseshoe bat is one of the smallest bats in the UK.  Look out for them at dusk in woodland, but not in winter when they hibernate underground in caves and tunnels.

Trees woods and wildlife

Rhinoceros beetle

Big and bold deadwood lovers. These impressive insects need trees to feed and breed.

Trees woods and wildlife

Privet hawk-moth

Gentle giants of the moth world. These strong fliers are brightly coloured as both caterpillars and adults, going from vibrant green to blushing pink.

Trees woods and wildlife

White-lipped snail

These slimy damp-lovers are a familiar sight, but there’s more than meets the eye to the white-lipped snail. Look out for them munching their way through woodland, grassland and gardens.

Trees woods and wildlife

Cypress, Leyland

At the centre of many neighbour wars, Leyland cypress can reach great heights very quickly. It’s one of the fastest growing conifers and often towers over houses and gardens.

Trees woods and wildlife

Western red cedar

A tree of strength and industry, western red cedar is grown in the UK for hedging and timber. Though less useful than our native trees, it provides food and shelter for wildlife.

Trees woods and wildlife

Natterer’s bat

Foliage foragers and cave-dwelling contortionists, these ‘red-armed bats’ are expert hunters and can squeeze themselves into the tightest of spaces.

Trees woods and wildlife

Comma

Tough, charming, rough around the edges. The comma is one of the few butterflies that is becoming more widespread, likely due to global warming.

Trees woods and wildlife

Nuthatch

Scuttling tree climbers. Look for these woodland specialists hurrying up and down tree trunks in search of food.

Trees woods and wildlife

Nightjar

Mysterious and elusive, the nightjar is one of our most intriguing birds. A summer visitor with bark-like plumage, it can be incredibly difficult to spot.

Trees woods and wildlife

Dark-edged bee-fly

Masquerading as a bumblebee, this agile mimic is a lover of all things nectar. Look out for it buzzing from flower to flower on warm, sunny days.

Trees woods and wildlife

Common lizard

Timid, lightning-quick and sun-worshipping. The common lizard basks in the warmth of the sun along woodland edges, sunny glades and rides. It stays close to dense cover so it can quickly hide among twigs, logs and leaves.

Trees woods and wildlife

Yellow-necked mouse

Agile, alert and rarely seen. The yellow-necked mouse is only found in the mature and ancient woodlands of southern Britain. Always on the lookout for predators, it can acrobatically leap to safety when threatened.

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.

Protecting trees and woods

Advice and support

If you own or manage an ancient wood, we can guide you through the restoration process.

Trees woods and wildlife

7-spot ladybird

A cheerful beetle with a vicious appetite, the 7-spot is our most familiar ladybird. They’re common in woods, parks and hedgerows, and a welcome pest control in gardens.

Trees woods and wildlife

Goldfinch

Seed-eating specialists with a bright red face. Goldfinches are perfectly adapted to access food other birds can’t reach.

Trees woods and wildlife

Kingfisher

Lightning fast and technicoloured, seeing a kingfisher always feels special. Spot them near rivers, diving low to catch tiny fish with impressive dexterity.

Trees woods and wildlife

Goat moth

Bulky yet well-disguised, this goliath is the heaviest moth in the UK! Spot the adults when they emerge in mid-summer after feeding on the wood of broadleaf trees as larvae.

Trees woods and wildlife

Harvestman

Spindly, gangly, with small, rounded bodies. These oddly proportioned spider relatives escape predators by losing their limbs. Look for them in damp woodland environments.

Trees woods and wildlife

Speckled bush-cricket

What’s bright green, spotty and loves a bramble bush? The speckled bush-cricket thrives in shrubs and grasses in hedgerows and woodland edges.

Trees woods and wildlife

Brown roll-rim

The brown roll-rim might look innocent enough, but it’s a deadly fungus of birch woodland.

Trees woods and wildlife

Noctule bat

Often seen flying high above the tree-tops, the noctule bat is the largest bat in the UK. This species relies on tree holes to roost in and is often confused for a swift when on the wing.

Trees woods and wildlife

Ash-black slug

This massive mollusc is one of the world’s largest land slugs, and it’s found right here, in the UK’s ancient woodlands.

Trees woods and wildlife

Long-eared owl

Wise and regal, with an imposing stare and elusive nature. Our most nocturnal owl, with a penchant for recycling other bird’s old nests. It lives in dense woodland and is a skilful hunter.

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.

Support us

Ben Shieldaig appeal, West Highlands

This breathtaking slice of Caledonian pine forest – part of Scotland's rainforest and our first ever mountain – now has a bright future.

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.

Plant trees

Help us create more river woodland

Find out how river woodland planting can increase river health, help prevent flooding and boost biodiversity.

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.

Trees woods and wildlife

Serotine bat 

One of the largest British bats, the serotine has a taste for beetles and other flying insects. Listen for the squeaking sound it makes just before emerging at dusk to hunt.

Trees woods and wildlife

Violet click beetle

Glimmering and rare, the violet click beetle is only found in three places in the UK. This elusive beetle is entirely reliant on the decaying wood of ash and beech trees.

Visiting woods

Discover woods in spring

While our woods are a pleasure to visit all year round, the jewel in the crown has got to be spring. Flowers bloom, bringing bursts of colour, and wildlife reawakens, turning the woodland into a hive of activity.

Trees woods and wildlife

Daubenton’s bat

A flying mammal with an aquatic edge. These bats are drawn to water, snatching insects from the surface of rivers and lakes.

Trees woods and wildlife

Brandt's bat

Small and shaggy, this pink-faced bat is often found in wet woodland. Keep your eyes peeled for them at dusk when they come out to hunt.

Trees woods and wildlife

Pied flycatcher

A quick and skilled aerial hunter. These summer visitors thrive in the mild, wet conditions of the UK's temperate rainforest.

Trees woods and wildlife

Dunnock

More than just a little brown job. Dunnocks may not be the most glamorous of birds, but there is more to this species than meets the eye, especially when it comes to mating.

Trees woods and wildlife

Robin

Feisty. Iconic. A Christmas card favourite and a gardener’s best friend. It’s no wonder this fiery little fella is one of Britain’s most-loved birds, frequenting the UK’s gardens in search of worms.

Trees woods and wildlife

Swift

Super-fast flyers living almost their entire life on the wing. Swifts are summer visitors to the UK whose numbers have suffered a worrying decline.

Trees woods and wildlife

Common pipistrelle bat 

Flying mammals that live among us. Common pipistrelles spend the day sleeping in buildings, but rely on trees when they emerge at night.

Trees woods and wildlife

Field vole

Cute and in huge numbers, but rarely seen. The grass-tunnelling field vole is our most abundant mammal and represents a vital link in the food chain.

Trees woods and wildlife

Grass snake

Stealthy slitherers. Grass snakes are lethal hunters of frogs, toads and other small creatures, but will rush for cover at the first sound of humans approaching.

Trees woods and wildlife

Bechstein's bat

This elusive tree lover hunts, mates, and lives in woodland, relying on old trees for roosting sites. Loss of habitat means this once common species is now one of our rarer bats.

Trees woods and wildlife

Bristle mosses

Bristly, spongy, and very sensitive to pollution, the bristle mosses are true tree lovers. Whereas most woodland mosses grow on the ground, look for these on tree trunks, branches and twigs.

Trees woods and wildlife

Rook

Raucous relative of the crow. After a day foraging in the fields, rooks head to the trees en masse; a noisy congregation settling down for a good night’s sleep among the branches.

Trees woods and wildlife

Spotted flycatcher

Adept at snatching flying insects mid-air, the spotted flycatcher visits the UK during the warmer months, and is often seen on the wing in woodland edges and clearings.

Trees woods and wildlife

Osprey

Expert fisherman and a conservation success story. Back from the brink of extinction, the mighty osprey is breeding once again in every country of the UK.

Trees woods and wildlife

Ash

One of our most beloved trees. Ash is one of the most common trees in the UK, but as ash dieback sweeps through, is it set to be erased from our countryside?

Support us

Hargate Forest Appeal 

Please support our urgent appeal to save land near Hargate Forest and bring them under our care. 

Trees woods and wildlife

Ancient woodland

Home to myth and legend, where folk tales began. It fuelled our ancestors and still houses thousands of species. Ancient woodland has grown and adapted with native wildlife, yet what remains only covers 2.5% of the UK.

About us

Our chief executive

Dr Darren Moorcroft is CEO of the Woodland Trust.

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.

Trees woods and wildlife

Red squirrel

Bouncing bundles of bushy-tailed energy. The flash of a red squirrel leaping from branch to branch is an unforgettable, but increasingly rare sight in the UK’s woods. These charismatic creatures depend on woodland to survive.

Trees woods and wildlife

Blue ground beetle

Rare jewel. Treetop adventurer. The blue ground beetle is found at just a handful of sites in England and Wales, scaling trees under cover of darkness in search of slugs.

Trees woods and wildlife

Cuckoo

A cunning master of misdirection, the cuckoo’s reputation precedes it. These brood parasites spook woodland birds from their nests, then lay their own eggs in them to be brought up by the host.

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.

Trees woods and wildlife

Hawthorn, Midland

Dense and pungent, but with fruits that are enjoyed by birds and humans alike, the Midland hawthorn is a supremely useful tree whose natural range is not fully understood.

Trees woods and wildlife

Red kite

A majestic scavenger, the red kite searches for food in almost any environment, then returns to nest in broadleaved woodland. Look out for them wheeling high in the air, or nesting up in the canopy.

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.

Trees woods and wildlife

Badger 

Big families, big appetites and big personalities. Badgers are a wood's ruling clan, often occupying the same sett for generations and laying a network of well-trodden paths through the undergrowth. They’re playful, house proud and expert foragers.

Support us

Be a hedgerow hero

Investigate hedgerow habitats and discover why they’re vital for a healthy planet.

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.

Trees woods and wildlife

Muntjac deer

Small and secretive. Muntjac are an attractive, but potentially damaging, addition to our woodlands, having been introduced in the 20th century.

Trees woods and wildlife

Land caddisfly

These clever case-builders break all the rules. They're the only species out of 200 UK caddisflies to spend their lives entirely on land.

Trees woods and wildlife

Goldcrest

A tiny bird with a big hairdo. The goldcrest is our smallest bird species, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in colour.

Trees woods and wildlife

Brambling

Winter visitors with a taste for nuts. Flocks of brambling head to the UK each year, escaping the Scandinavian snow and taking advantage of the food on offer in our woods.

Trees woods and wildlife

Common frog

Smooth. Slick. Slippery. These quick-jumping masters of disguise are regular visitors to garden ponds.

Trees woods and wildlife

Lesser spotted woodpecker

Secretive tree-top dweller. The lesser spotted is our smallest, and rarest, woodpecker. These woodland specialists are one of the UK’s fastest-declining bird species.

Trees woods and wildlife

Redstart

Colourful summer visitor and Atlantic rainforest specialist. These handsome birds love the mild, wet conditions of the UK's west coast woodlands.

Trees woods and wildlife

Barbastelle bat

Distinctive, rare, elusive. The barbastelle bat lives in deciduous woodland and looks unlike any other bat. If you’re lucky, you might spot it hunting in wet woodland.