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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Shakespeare in the Forest

27 October 2021
 by 
Heart of England Forest
A year five and six school group from Mappleborough Green Primary School put on the first-ever performance in the Heart of England Forest.
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Help inform how the Forest grows

12 October 2021
 by 
Heart of England Forest
Help to shape the future of the Forest by participating in our Autumn Survey.
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Supported internships for young people

5 October 2021
 by 
Heart of England Forest
Six supported interns have started their 10 month programme in the Forest. Find out more about them and the experience they will be gaining during their time here.
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Monitoring birds of prey in the Forest

5 October 2021
 by 
Heart of England Forest
Dedicated volunteers install and check on a network of nest boxes to monitor the success of birds of prey in the Forest. Read our results for 2020.
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What happens to trees in autumn?

3 September 2021
 by 
Tim Russ
With the temperatures dropping and sun getting ever lower in the sky, Forest Ranger Tim shares how our trees prepare for the months ahead.
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Managing ponds for biodiversity

3 September 2021
 by 
Imogen Rutter
We have been surveying and mapping all ponds found in the Forest to help us manage these important habitats.
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