Aerial view of Spernal and Windmill Hill
News

A first for the purple emperor in the Forest

1 July 2025
 by 
Sam Macvie, Biodiversity Data and Survey Officer
The purple emperor is the UK’s second-largest butterfly, with females having a wingspan of over 9cm across. However, the male is arguably a more impressive butterfly, with upper wings that reflect a blueish-purple hue. Find out more about how this rare butterfly is faring in the Forest - we have exciting news!
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Winter birds in the Heart of England Forest

31 December 2022
 by 
Heart of England Forest
Whether they are long-term residents or just visiting, the birds in the Forest in winter face many challenges that come with colder weather and shorter days. Learn more and discover some of our team members’ favourite winter birds.
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Public support for more action to protect and grow forests revealed as COP15 begins

7 December 2022
 by 
Heart of England Forest
The Heart of England Forest has released new data indicating the overwhelming level of public support for greater action to protect our current woodland and forests and to create more to help address the biodiversity crisis.
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Collecting the next generation of trees for the Forest

30 November 2022
 by 
Heart of England Forest
900kg of seed has been collected from the trees in our woodlands which will become the next generation of native broadleaves and important hedgerow species to help grow the Forest.
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Gorcott Hill Wood gains title of Local Wildlife Site

29 November 2022
 by 
Heart of England Forest
The ancient semi-natural woodland at Gorcott Hill supports many rare plants and animals and makes a vital contribution to conserving biodiversity. Now an official LWS, under the Heart of England Forest’s care, the woodland will be conserved and protected for future generations. 
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The achievements and legacy of our Green Recovery project

1 November 2022
 by 
Heart of England Forest
Now completed, the project funded by the £1.7m Green Recovery Challenge Fund (GRCF) grant, has enabled us to make a step-change in our work today, whilst laying rhe foundations to grow the Forest further tomorrow.
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Tree planting season has arrived

31 October 2022
 by 
Heart of England Forest
It is a busy time in the Forest as tree planting season begins. Thanks to our forestry team and volunteers, new native woodland will be created whilst we also continue to create and maintain the other extensive habitats in the Forest.
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