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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How learning outdoors delivers better outcomes in the classroom

29 June 2022
 by 
Elaine Skates, Head of Learning and Skills
Working with schools to take learning into the Forest is helping children thrive and having a positive impact on both behaviour and academic performance.
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Invertebrates found in the Forest

28 June 2022
 by 
By Sam Macvie, Biodiversity Data and Survey Officer
Recent surveys recorded 423 different species of invertebrate in the Forest, including some rare and Nationally Scarce species. Find out more from Sam from our biodiversity team.
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Mitigating climate change and supporting The Queen’s Green Canopy

15 June 2022
 by 
Heart of England Forest
We are tree planting to mitigate climate whilst also supporting The Queen’s Green Canopy - a unique tree planting initiative created to mark Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee.
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Heart of England Forest volunteers recognised with Queen’s Award

2 June 2022
 by 
Heart of England Forest
Heart of England Forest volunteers have just been awarded The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. This is the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is equivalent to an MBE.
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Planting a forest for the future of our planet

1 June 2022
 by 
Heart of England Forest
On the 5th June, we will be celebrating 'Our One Earth' as part of World Environment Day 2022. We are proud to be planting and protecting a 30,000 acre broadleaf forest that will benefit generations to come and provide a brighter future for all of us.
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Volunteering to help the Forest and the environment

31 May 2022
 by 
Jonathan Saunders, Volunteer Manager
From tree planting to wildlife monitoring, inspiring our future Forest Guardians and micro volunteering from home, discover six ways that our volunteers are helping us to grow the Forest and tackle climate change.
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