Finglandrigg Woods National Nature Reserve
A fascinating mosaic of habitats, Finglandrigg Wood is vital to an impressive array of wildlife, including many less-common species. It is one of the largest areas of semi-natural woodland on the Solway Plain and includes woodland, peat bog, heathland and rough pasture, that is carefully managed through grazing, planting and coppicing.
Highlights:
Red squirrel, roe deer, brown hare and wood mouse can be seen here as well as the more elusive badger and otter. The site has over 40 species of breeding birds including buzzard, tawny owl, willow tit, grasshopper warbler, reed bunting, garden warbler and long-tailed tit.
Insect life is plentiful, with small pearlbordered fritillary, purple hairstreak and ringlet butterflies often seen in summer. You may also find the notable forester and silver hook moths. The rare marsh fritillary was present until recently and there are plans to reintroduce it. Uncommon plants include the small gorse, petty whin, bell heather and Sphagnum mosses.
Location and access: T
he reserve is approximately 13 km west of Carlisle. Follow the B5307 Kirkbride road, go through Kirkbampton village and after 1.5 km you will see Haverlands lay-by on the left. You can park here by the English Nature sign and continue on foot along waymarked paths onto the reserve.
From Wigton, the reserve is approximately 13 km. Follow the B5307 from the Wigton by-pass. Go through Kirkbride and Fingland and approximately 3 km further on is the Haverlands lay-by on the right.
There is a network of marked paths, boardwalks, stiles and a footbridge at the site making the going relatively easy.
Grid reference: NY256570
Click here for more details.
Courtesy of English Nature.
These maps are intended as a guideline only; you must check the exact location of the reserve yourself. Wildlife Extra assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or usefulness of the information on this website.
