Scrub occurs as a result of natural succession. The pioneer tree and woody shrub species such as hawthorn, gorse, willow and birch are opportunists and rapidly colonise areas of heath and open grassland. Though potentially an extremely damaging force, if kept in check, scrub can be an invaluable addition to any habitat patchwork. Providing a dense coverage from aerial and land predators, areas of managed scrub may act as refugia for many nesting birds and provide an ideal habitat for a plethora of mammals and invertebrates.

Due to the presence of nesting birds cutting and removal of scrub is only recommended during the winter months. And it is good practice when carrying out partial clearance to create edges that are as ‘natural’ and uneven as possible. The resulting recesses create sheltered areas that are ideal for certain invertebrate species. In some instances it may be possible to place cuttings beneath the existing scrub canopy and allow them to decay naturally, thereby providing even more cover for wildlife.

The following photos illustrate how scrub may appear following a period of partial clearance;

The table below lists the species found in this habitat to date:

Unidentified Species