Brenchley Woods
Brenchley is an ancient woodland made up of alder near the stream to large majestic beech and oak trees on the higher ground. There is also an important area of heathland (a very scarce habitat in Kent).
The new extension will increase the overall area of woodland habitat which we can manage and protect but also provides an important link to nearby Cinderhill Wood which is also managed for wildlife including nightjar, tree pipit and nightingales.
Key aims
- To protect and extend the present reserve which includes Ancient woodland and an important area of heathland (a very scarce habitat in Kent).
- The new extension will not only increase the overall area of woodland habitat which we can manage and protect but also provides an important link to nearby Cinderhill Wood which is also managed for wildlife including nightjar, tree pipit and nightingales.
- Part of the restoration of the extension will be to increase the area of heathland. Restoration on the existing reserve has seen the return of flora including low shrubby heather and dwarf gorse. This management has encouraged species usually associated with larger heathland sites such as the distinctive green tiger beetle and the hobby – a swift and agile bird of prey.
- In the existing reserve where coppicing has taken place, the early purple orchid is growing. Careful rotational coppicing on the new extension will be key to the survival of this delicate orchid.
Progress of Appeal
40% of ancient woodland has been lost since the war and is still disappearing because of the intense pressure on the county from development. By helping KWT to save and restore this new extension to Brenchley, you will be supporting us creata a haven for threatened wildlife including: dormice, tawny owls, bluebells, wood anemones and speckled wood butterflies.
Dave Hutton, Reserves Officer : West Kent
To donate to this ongoing project
- Call our credit card hotline in office hours (01622) 662012
- Send a cheque to: Donations, Kent Wildlife Trust, Tyland Barn, Sandling, Maidstone, Kent. ME14 3BD.
