Roydon Woods Wildlife Reserve

As you walk along the network of paths through Roydon Woods you’ll discover many different habitats, each with their own character and wildlife. Deer can be seen or heard in the woodland, which is alive with bird song all year round and bright with butterflies in the summer. In autumn with the changing leaves fungi suddenly appear on the woodland floor. The grasslands and heaths are grazed by cattle and new forest ponies, and the woodlands are coppiced and thinned to improve the tree age structure. Invasive bracken is cleared from heathland areas.

Highlights:
Amongst the multitude of butterflies found at Roydon scarce species such as White Admiral and Pearl-bordered Fritillary can be seen. Roydon Woods boasts over 150 different lichens, including some rarities. Tawny Owls live in the woodland areas whilst Nightjars make the most of the more open heath areas. All three of the British woodpecker species can be seen here. The ancient woodland contains large old Oaks and Beech trees.

In the wet areas insect-eating Sundews can be seen. There are hundreds of flowering plants at Roydon with rarities such as Narrowleaved Lungwort and Pale Butterwort. If you are lucky you may see Roe, Fallow or Sika Deer on the reserve. In autumn listen out for their rutting (mating) calls which sound like whistles or belching. The ponds support many different dragonflies and damselflies, including the Broad-bodied Chaser and the Beautiful Demoiselle.

Location and access:
The reserve is open to the public, free of charge. Church Lane, Brockenhust, Hampshire.

For more information please visit www.hwt.org.uk or contact 01489 774400.

Grid ref: SU315009