Watchtree Habitats
Hedgerows
Like other habitats created and ultimately destroyed by human influences, hedgerows have declined significantly. Between 1945 (Second world War again!) and 1993 it is estimated that over half of our hedgerows have been either destroyed or become derelict. The importance of hedgerows, particularly where there is little or no woodland cannot be over emphasised; 21 out of 28 lowland mammal, 69 out of 91 bird and 23 out of 54 butterfly species breed in hedges (The Hedgerow Trust, 2006). Hedgerows are also considered important biodiversity corridors, linking habitats together. As well as their wildlife conservation value, hedgerows help to protect soils and crops and thus the wider countryside benefits.
Almost 4km of Hedgerows have been created at Watchtree. Consisting predominantly of Hawthorn and occasional Dog Rose, Blackthorn and Holly, hedgerows cover many of the burial pits in the central part of the reserve. Target bird species associated with hedgerows including Linnet, Bullfinch and Yellowhammer should also benefit in future years once the hedgerows become established.